A Message from Your President

UMW Sisters,

Hope!  A feeling that what is wanted will happen.  Desire accompanied with anticipation or expectation!  Since the beginning of 2010, hope is a word you have heard often during a time of turmoil and tragedy.  As I write this article, my March Lilies are at least three inches above ground and their little yellow buds are seen against the background of snow. It is a wonderful example of God, through His creation, reminding us of hope. Winter will soon pass and the snow and ice will disappear.  Spring will arrive in all its splendor. 

As we have sent our monetary gifts, prayed and assembled health kits, we, too are showing the people of Haiti there is hope. I know each of your UMW units have been busy creating hope for a hurting world.  Not only in Haiti, but around the world so many need hope.  United Methodist Women are in the business of providing hope.  Whether it is providing a warm coat for someone who is cold, food for a hungry stomach, or a word of kindness to someone who is hurting, you are providing hope.

There are other things that bring hope into our lives.  Anticipation and expectation of wonderful fellowship and worship at our district days apart, as well as our conference Spiritual Growth Retreat at Kavanaugh are but a few of the events that bring hope. Many of us are “hoping” and making plans to attend the Assembly in St. Louis later this spring. If you have not already planned to attend, I encourage you to do so. I can tell you from experience; it is an event you will never forget.

As most of you are aware, our UMW Conference Team lost a dear and vital member this past fall.  Deborah “Debbie” Mason, Spiritual Growth Coordinator, went to be with her Lord while on a trip to the Holy Land.  Debbie had been in the process of planning our Conference Spiritual Growth Retreat at Kavanaugh and had already obtained our leader for this year. Sue Owens, teacher, writer, Women’s Division Director and a person with a wonderful sense of humor, will be leading our retreat. Sue comes from Greensboro, South Carolina and she and Debbie had chosen the theme, “It’s Time…” You will find a registration form included and I encourage you to sit down immediately and get your reservation in. Overnight lodging is limited. Motel lodging is available nearby if you would prefer a bit more “comfort!” My “hope” is to see you there!

My sincere hope is that you are making a difference in someone’s life today. “The hope of the righteous shall be gladness.” Proverbs 10:28.  United Methodist Women are instruments of hope.

Mary Bertram

Kentucky Conference UMW President