Chicago, Illinois – United Methodist young women, 18 to 30 years of age, are invited to help shape the future of ministry and women's leadership in the UMC through the work of The General Commission on the Status and Role of Women (GCSRW). The GCSRW Think Tank has been established with the belief that fresh viewpoints and diverse experiences of young women within the church can help the agency chart a course that resonates with a new generation.
Members of the cohort are asked to commit to serving as a volunteer for two years during which they’ll meet on a quarterly basis.
“No matter where you're from, your background, or your perspective, your voice deserves to be heard,” noted the Rev. Meg Lassiat, Director of Resource Development and Training at GCSRW. “We're searching for individuals who are open-minded, passionate about justice, deeply rooted in faith and aligned with the values of The United Methodist Church. By coming together with like-minded peers, you'll be part of a movement that fuels transformation.”
Not only with these young women help ensure a more inclusive and forward-looking future, but they’ll also:
- Contribute insights on women's roles and helping to shape church policies
- Get hands-on involvement in research projects
- Engage in policy development and advocacy
- Play a pivotal role in shaping the commission's mission
- Develop relationships and leadership skills
- Inspire greater involvement in the church's work
- Be a catalyst for progress
“It is important for young women, like myself, to take ownership of our calling. And we can’t do that if we’re not involved in the ministries and decision-making spaces of the Church. This Think Tank cohort provides a safe opportunity for participants to engage with the UMC system and be empowered to help guide change,” shared Aileen Delgado, Manager of Hispanic/Latino Leader Communications at United Methodist Communications, who also functions as the Director of Communications for GCSRW, as the partnership liaison between the agencies.
“Our agency did an early introduction of the think tank during the Youth 2023 event and saw that attendees were enthusiastic about this opportunity to be a catalyst for positive change,” adds the Rev. Lassiat. “We are excited to officially roll the cohort out to members at large and meet the young women who will help us in shaping women’s ministry in The United Methodist Church for years to come.”
Young adult women interested in participating can apply for this opportunity via the GCSRW website. The application window will close October 15, 2023.
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About the General Commission on the Status and Role of Women:
The General Commission on the Status and Role of Women advocates for full participation of women in the total life of The United Methodist Church. GCSRW helps the church recognize every person – clergy and lay, women and men, adults and children – as full and equal parts of God's human family. They believe that a fully engaged and empowered membership is vital to The United Methodist Church's mission "to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world." Learn more at GCSRW.org.
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