UCW

They are women of faith who have fundraising down to a science. They’ve had their eyes on international projects – and many in their own backyard too. They’re expert organizers who know the ins and outs of major church events, from the annual bazaar to funeral catering. And they are their own support system and mentors, learning and sharing knowledge together. But UCW (United Church Women) groups – not unlike churches themselves, are being squeezed on all sides by societal shifts. There are more women in the workplace now than when UCW groups began in 1962, cutting into available free time. There are dozens of different volunteer opportunities for women nowadays – from school councils to non-profit board positions and service groups. But the biggest issue, one being felt far and wide by many churches, is attracting new women to replace long-time UCW members and finding ones willing to take on leadership roles. And so, after much heartfelt discussion, members of the Glen Morris UCW made the difficult decision to disband. A working group was formed after the decision was made in November 2023, to make recommendations on how the current finances would be distributed as well as suggestions on which church committees could possibly absorb some of the responsibilities that this group has maintained. Their final annual meeting on Saturday, February 3, 2024 saw 15 women, including 3 charter members from 1962, share their memories and impactful experiences in their time involved in UCW. For many, it was an emotional sharing, remembering the many women who had gone before them over the years, and the recalling of the wonderful contributions this group has made in the past 60 plus years. This group also made recommendations on how future ‘traditionally UCW led’ events could be maintained, and these were taken to the Annual Congregational Meeting on Sunday, February 11, 2024  As well, an off-shoot, primarily social group was formed several years ago, aptly named ‘Koinonia’ - from a Greek word which refers to concepts such as fellowship, joint participation and partnership - and which this organization is happy to know will continue to keep the women of this community connected.