The 1993 International conference of Women at the Temple attracted thousands of women from around the world. Photo by Marvin McDole

“Claim a New Vision Together”

Women from across North America representing more than 20 denominations will explore the theme “Claim a New Vision Together: Envision, Equip, Empower, Engage” in an event hosted by Community of Christ International Headquarters and sponsored by Church Women United (CWU). Gail Mengel, Community of Christ ecumenical officer and president of CWU, hopes that between 2,500 and 3,000 Community of Christ women will join in the event June 19–22, 2008.

Gail said, “This special and one-time invitation to be the host site offers Community of Christ women a unique opportunity to warmly welcome many who have never visited the Temple and Auditorium in Independence, Missouri. It will be a very positive experience in our journey of working and offering ministry with other Christians.”

The event is for women ages 15 to 100 and will feature vibrant worships, small-group communities, and motivating workshops. Noteworthy speakers highlight the event: Glory Dharmaraj, United Methodist; Cynthia Hale, Christian Church (Disciples of Christ); Trinette McCray, American Baptist; Kikanza Nuri Robins, Presbyterian Church USA; Nancy Hastings Sehested, United Church of Christ and the Alliance of Baptists; and Gail Mengel, Community of Christ. Contemporary issues will be addressed including peace and justice, diversity, racism, reconciliation, ecology, health issues, family, theological perspectives, outreach opportunities, and more.

There will also be designated times for women to gather with their own denominations for fellowship and a meal. Registration is $175 per person through March 30, 2008 ($200 beginning April 1). A selection of hotels in the Independence area offering special rates for attendees is available. Visit www.gathering08.org to register online and watch www.CofChrist.org/womensconf/ for other details. To learn more about CWU, visit www.churchwomen.org.

 
Denominational Follow-Up

Community of Christ women will have the opportunity to further explore how to apply what they have learned and experienced once they return to their home communities to share the peace of Jesus Christ. A lunch and closing will be held immediately following the final worship of the ecumenical gathering. More details will be announced soon at www.CofChrist.org/womensconf/.

Worldwide Event Still to Come

Initial plans were to hold a short Community of Christ women’s conference immediately following the CWU event in June 2008 in hopes that Community of Christ women from around the world could plan their travel to attend both events. Because the ecumenical event is focused on a North American audience, the First Presidency supported a recommendation to plan an international Community of Christ women’s conference to be held at a later date instead. Dates and details for the international Community of Christ women’s conference will be announced around June 2008. During 2008, the July 27–August 1 Congregational Life Workshop will offer a wonderful opportunity for all those who seek opportunities to learn, worship, and pursue our mission together. Watch www.CofChrist.org/clw/ for future details.