History of Women's Ministries Council

It has been over two years since the pastors approached Sandy Brown and Barbara Anderson to begin work to implement change in the ways ministry is done for women and by women at First Baptist. Meetings were held with our pastors' wives, and women already involved in leadership. A Ministries Council was formed and plans were laid to expand some ministries and create several others. It was a disappointment last spring to learn one of our co directors, Sandy Brown would be moving to Virginia. She is missed, but her foundational planning and leadership recruitment continue to give direction to our ministries.
We have been aware of the Lord's direction and blessing in each phase of our implementation. In the first stages, Ministry of Love (our compassionate care ministry) broadened its scope and changed its name to Taste of Grace. Then, More than Mommies, a ministry to young mothers was begun.

We began this Women's Ministries' season with a kick-off rally during the ABF hour in late September. An overview of our Ministry Teams was given and our Mission Purpose was introduced. There was a challenge given for First Women to be mentors in the lives of other women according to the principles of Titus, chapter two.
In September Women's Missionary Fellowship, More than Mommies, and Ladies Bible Studies each began their fall programs. The ministries of Taste of Grace, Shut-in Visitation, Singles' Lunches, Inner-cities' Outreach, and Ladies SS Class have continued. An Encouragement Committee was formed to communicate with our young people at college and in the military. A successful Ladies Retreat was held in November. Christmas Coffees were revived under the Women's Council this year and one of our future ministries, Women of Work, held a get acquainted coffee in the Carey Reception room.
There is more to be done on the Women's Ministries Council. The leadership team will be working to evaluate policies and determine areas where ministries overlap. Please pray for us that we keep our focus on serving the Lord through all our ministries.
There are opportunities for you to become involved in a greater way. Our Women's Ministries brochure is available at the Welcome Center. Prayerfully consider where you can be involved. All are welcome to contact the Ministries team leadership to offer suggestions, ask questions, or volunteer services.

UPCOMING EVENTS

February
1- Women of Work Lunch at Olive Garden
3- Ladies Sunday Out
12-WMF: Women at Risk with Becky McDonald (7:00 pm)
13-More than Mommies (9:30 am)
21-Inner city Lunch with FBCC (9:00-2:00)
26-WMF Workday (10:00 am)

March
2- Ladies Sunday Out
2- Heart to Heart Mentoring ABF Elective (9:00 am)
9- Heart to Heart Mentoring ABF Elective (9:00 am)
11- WMF Romania with Kim Warner (7:00 am)
12- More than Mommies (9:30 am)
15- Tea at Two for Mentors (2:00 pm)
20- Inner city Lunch with FBCC (9:00-2:00)
25- WMF Worknight (6:30 pm)