2008 - one hundred years since Woman’s Missionary Union became organized here in Illinois. How do you suppose those pioneering women celebrated the beginning of such a needed organization 100 years ago. Do you think they baked cakes, prepared punch, and gathered together to party? Perhaps; maybe they just smiled and got down to business - the business of planning and preparing to be the best auxiliary Illinois Baptist State Association could hope for.
Our Illinois Woman’s Missionary Union has planned and prepared over the years, and now we have arrived at the 100 year mark. In 1983 when we celebrated 75 years, Mrs. Inez Taylor wrote a history of Illinois Woman’s Missionary Union entitled, “Facets of a Diamond.” Mrs. Taylor did a fantastic job of compiling names, dates and events. I was pleased and surprised to find my father-in-law’s name on page 49. My husband’s aunt’s name is on page 113. I’m happy to have this heritage of involvement in WMU even if it is only by marriage. I’m sure many of you can look back and name kinfolk who were and are WMUers. We have many reasons to be proud.
I have a great idea - let’s celebrate! Let’s get together May 1-3 in Marion where it all began. We’ll have special guests, special missionaries and special activities - makes me want to jump into the air and click my heels together! And we’ll have our own “special book.” Evelyn Tully has worked diligently to gather photos and quotes and has compiled our own 100th celebration history. Our theme is “Weave a Story.” Many threads and fibers form our beautiful Illinois WMU tapestry. Come join us as we see where we’ve been and as we look forward to our exciting future. Bring some friends!!
“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations for ever and ever! Amen.” Ephesians 3:20-21 NIV
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