Celebrating a Century of Women's Leadership in Faith
Summary
As we gather in this centennial year of the United Church of Canada, we are invited to remember and celebrate the remarkable journey of women who have shaped our church’s mission and spirit. One hundred years ago, women from different denominations—Presbyterian, Methodist, and Congregational—stood together in unity, declaring, “Here I am,” ready to serve both at home and abroad. Their willingness to adapt, collaborate, and lead laid the foundation for what would become the United Church Women (UCW), a movement that has continually responded to the needs of the times.
Throughout each decade, the UCW has faced new challenges and embraced change. From supporting overseas missions in the 1920s, to ordaining the first female minister in the 1930s, to resisting the pressures of war in the 1940s, and to fostering inclusivity and reconciliation in more recent years, the UCW has been a steadfast force for good. The role of women in the church and society has evolved, but the commitment to service, justice, and spiritual growth has remained constant.
The UCW’s story is one of resilience and transformation. Whether adapting to new ways of gathering, advocating for social justice, or supporting one another through times of sorrow and joy, the women of the United Church have demonstrated bold discipleship. Their leadership has not only shaped the church’s response to issues like racism, reconciliation, and inclusivity, but has also fostered a deep sense of unity and fellowship that endures to this day.
No matter the era or the challenge, there is always someone willing to say, “Here I am,” ready to serve in the name of Jesus. The spirit of gratitude, love, and support that fills our gatherings is a testament to the enduring legacy of the UCW. As we look to the future, we are reminded that our mission continues—rooted in faith, strengthened by community, and inspired by the boldness of those who have gone before us.
Key Takeaways
- The power of unity across differences is foundational. When women from various denominations came together a century ago, they set aside their individual traditions to form a new, united body. This act of unity reminds us that God’s work often requires us to transcend boundaries and collaborate for a greater purpose. [29:27]
- Adaptability is a spiritual discipline. Each decade brought new challenges—war, social change, theological shifts—and the UCW responded not by resisting change, but by embracing it. This willingness to adapt is not just practical, but deeply spiritual, reflecting a trust that God is present in every new circumstance. [30:53]
- Leadership is not about titles, but about saying “Here I am.” Throughout history, women in the church have stepped forward in times of need, offering their gifts and presence. True leadership is marked by availability and courage, not by position or recognition. [35:15]
- The pursuit of justice and inclusivity is ongoing. The UCW has been at the forefront of advocating for reconciliation, anti-racism, and the full inclusion of all people in the life of the church. This work is never finished, and it calls us to continually examine how we embody Christ’s love in our community and beyond. [33:41]
- Joy and gratitude are sustaining forces in community. Despite the many challenges faced, the UCW has always found reasons to celebrate, support one another, and give thanks. This spirit of joy and gratitude is not just a byproduct of community, but a vital source of strength and resilience. [35:15]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[00:45] - Centennial Year Reflections
[02:10] - Imagining 1925: The Birth of Unity
[04:30] - Women’s Missionary Societies Unite
[06:15] - The Formation of the UCW
[08:00] - Adapting Through the Decades
[10:20] - Changing Roles of Women
[12:05] - Milestones in Ministry and Leadership
[14:30] - Social Justice and Reconciliation
[17:00] - Embracing Inclusivity
[19:15] - Facing Modern Challenges
[21:40] - The Enduring Spirit of Fellowship
[24:00] - Supporting Each Other in Trials and Joy
[26:10] - Bold Discipleship and Service
[28:00] - Invitation to Community and Closing Hymn
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: “Here I Am: Celebrating 100 Years of United Church Women”
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### Bible Reading
1. Isaiah 6:8
_Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!”_
2. Galatians 3:28
_There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus._
3. Romans 12:4-8
_For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us..._
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### Observation Questions
1. In Isaiah 6:8, what is the response given to God’s call, and how does this phrase show up in the story of the United Church Women?
2. According to the sermon, what were some of the key moments when women in the church said, “Here I am,” and stepped forward to serve? [29:27]
3. What are some of the changes and challenges the UCW faced in different decades, as described in the sermon? [30:53]
4. How does Galatians 3:28 relate to the way the UCW has worked for inclusivity and unity in the church?
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think the phrase “Here I am” is so important in both the Bible and the story of the UCW? What does it say about the kind of leadership God values? [29:27]
2. The sermon describes adaptability as a spiritual discipline. In what ways might adapting to change be an act of faith or trust in God? [30:53]
3. The UCW has been involved in justice, reconciliation, and inclusivity. Why might these be ongoing, never-finished tasks for the church? [33:41]
4. The sermon mentions that joy and gratitude are sustaining forces in community. Why do you think these attitudes are so important, especially during times of challenge or sorrow? [35:15]
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### Application Questions
1. The women who formed the UCW were willing to set aside their differences and unite for a greater purpose. Is there a situation in your life or in our church where you feel called to work together with others, even if it means letting go of personal preferences? What would it look like to say, “Here I am” in that situation? [29:27]
2. Think about a recent change or challenge you’ve faced—at church, at work, or at home. How did you respond? What would it look like to practice adaptability as a spiritual discipline, trusting that God is present in the new circumstance? [30:53]
3. The UCW has a history of stepping up to serve, not for recognition, but out of willingness and courage. Is there a place where you feel God nudging you to step forward, even if you don’t have a title or official role? What’s holding you back? [35:15]
4. The pursuit of justice and inclusivity is described as ongoing. Are there ways you see our church (or yourself) needing to grow in welcoming and including others? What is one step you could take this month to help make our community more inclusive? [33:41]
5. The sermon highlights the importance of supporting each other in both sorrow and joy. Can you think of someone in our community who might need encouragement or celebration right now? What is one practical thing you could do for them this week? [35:15]
6. The UCW’s gatherings are marked by gratitude and joy, even in hard times. What is one thing you are grateful for in your faith community? How can you express that gratitude to others this week? [35:15]
7. The phrase “Here I am” is a bold response to God’s call. Is there an area of your life where you sense God asking you to be available or courageous? What would it look like to say “Here I am” to God this week? [29:27]
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Devotional
Day 1: Here I Am—Answering the Call to Serve
Throughout history, women of faith have responded to God’s call with the words, “Here I am,” stepping forward to serve in times of need, change, and challenge. This willingness to be present and available has shaped communities, supported missions, and inspired others to join in acts of compassion and justice. Each generation is invited to echo this response, offering themselves in service to God and neighbor, no matter the circumstances or obstacles. [29:27]
Isaiah 6:8 (ESV)
And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here I am! Send me.”
Reflection: When was the last time you sensed a nudge to step forward and serve, even if it felt daunting? What would it look like for you to say, “Here I am,” to God today?
Day 2: Adapting Through Change with Faith and Unity
The journey of the United Church Women has been marked by constant adaptation—embracing new roles, facing societal shifts, and responding to the evolving needs of the church and world. Through every decade, unity and faith have enabled women to navigate uncertainty, support one another, and remain steadfast in their mission. Change is inevitable, but together, rooted in faith, we can meet it with courage and hope. [30:53]
Ecclesiastes 3:1 (ESV)
For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.
Reflection: Think of a recent change in your life or community. How might God be inviting you to adapt and grow through this season, trusting in His presence and guidance?
Day 3: Supporting One Another in Times of Trial and Joy
In every gathering, United Church women have created spaces of comfort, support, and celebration—offering strength in sorrow and sharing gratitude in joy. This fellowship is a source of resilience, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles or our blessings. By lifting each other up, we reflect God’s love and build a community where all are cared for. [35:15]
Romans 12:15 (ESV)
Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.
Reflection: Who in your circle might need encouragement or companionship today? How can you reach out to offer support or share in their joy?
Day 4: Bold Discipleship and Pursuing Justice in Jesus’ Name
The call to discipleship is a call to boldness—to shine with leadership, to push for justice, and to act with courage in the name of Jesus. United Church women have dared to challenge injustice and advocate for change, trusting that their efforts are part of God’s greater work in the world. Each of us is invited to be a bold disciple, using our voice and actions to bring about justice and compassion. [36:32]
Micah 6:8 (ESV)
He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?
Reflection: What is one injustice or need you feel passionate about? What step can you take this week to act justly and love kindness in your community?
Day 5: Celebrating Blessings with Gratitude and Joy
Amidst all the changes and challenges, the spirit of gratitude and joy remains at the heart of the United Church Women’s gatherings. Celebrating blessings—both big and small—nurtures hope, strengthens bonds, and reminds us of God’s abundant goodness. Taking time to give thanks and rejoice together is an act of faith that sustains us through every season. [35:15]
Psalm 100:1-5 (ESV)
Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth! Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into his presence with singing! Know that the Lord, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.
Reflection: What are three blessings you can celebrate and give thanks for today? How might you share your gratitude and joy with others?
Quotes
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