With a membership of over one million, and in our 135th year of existence, the United Methodist Women remains the largest women's organization in the world. Our purpose is to know God, experience freedom as whole persons through Jesus Christ, to develop a creative, supportive fellowship, and to expand concepts of mission through participation in the global ministeries of the church.

But what have we done lately? Among and along with other items in 2004, this unit gave $5,500 to undesignated missions, as well as monetary gifts to designated missions of the Toberman Settlement House, David & Margaret Home, Henderson Settlement, Methodist Hospital, UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief) for hurrican relief, Aldersgate Retreat Center, and Christian Appalachian Project. In addition, we gave 100 hand-crocheted baby blankets to Methodist Hospital Gift Shop. The Quilting Guild made 39 quilts for women and children's shelters. 200 baby bibs were delivered to Orangewood, and we made a dozen UMCOR health kits and collected new children's books for the needy day care center.

There are a variety of ongoing programs, including monthly general meetings. We also have interest circles, both daytime and evening, and special events such as our annual Women's Retreat, Mother-Daughter Luncheon, mission studies, rummage sale and Cranberry Tea.