United Women in Faith - at First UMC

and Beyond

United Women in Faith seeks to connect and nurture women through Christian spiritual formation, leadership development, creative fellowship, and education so that they can inspire, influence and impact local and global communities. Formerly known as United Methodist Women (starting in the 1860’s), this group has changed the name to be more inclusive.

Our focus is on education and mission, including a priority towards helping women, children and families. All monies raised throughout the year go to local and global missions.

Here at First UMC, we present High School Senior Scholarships to the graduates every June and we contribute to the annual fundraising for the Youth Service Project. Through the years we have supported ministries including Angel Tree, Messy Church, Step Up on Second Street and the Westside Food Bank, The People Concern, Children, Youth, Family Collaborative, The Wesley Foundation serving UCLA, and the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR). We welcome your involvement in any and all ways, in person and in prayer.

– Karen Ing and Robin Henning, Co-chairs of United Women in Faith

On the website: www.santamonicaumc.org/uwf

United Women in Faith – a Global Connection

Driven by God’s love and united in sisterhood, we work to improve the lives of women, children and youth. Every day, we show up. We take action. We get it done. And we invite you to join us.

- Who We Are: We’re a sisterhood acting in faith to tackle the hard work of the world without hesitation.

- What We Do: We connect spiritual women to act boldly for justice and transform communities.

Find out more about the work of the global United Women in Faith –www.uwfaith.org

Global United Women in Faith Monthly Podcast

Join monthly podcast conversations with the global United Women in Faith, hosted by Jennifer R. Farmer. Each month, they’ll explore timely themes and resources, from expert insights on ways to live your faith to inspiring interviews with spiritual leaders. Visit their Events Calendar to join the live podcasts, view past episodes, and sign up to receive email reminders. Go to: https://uwfaith.org/events/calendar

Preschool Corner

Preschool Teachers Attend Conference

On February 17-18, the teachers and staff of First UMC Preschool attended an ECSTEM (Early Childhood Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Conference here in Santa Monica. The teachers were able to visit the brand new Santa Monica Early Childhood Lab School Campus and other early childhood destinations around Santa Monica. The staff then attended wonderful learning sessions of new ideas and ways to bring more STEM to the classrooms. The conference instilled determination and inspiration to fill the children’s lives with even more discovery and curiosity. Many of these ideas and plans will be brought to fruition in the new STEM/Art Lab extension of the large yard. We plan to transform this area into a place where children can discover the wonders of being creative.

- Johanna Holman, Site Supervisor and teacher

Preschool Enrollment Happening Now!

Preschool is enrolling for current and next year. Toddler, Preschool ages 2-5, and new TK program. Schedule a tour today with Dee Menzies, Preschool Director at 310-395-7292, or visit our webpage for more information:

We ❤ Grandparents!

We look forward to the annual special event on March 3 of Preschool children inviting grandparents and special friends for coffee, snacks, book fair and reading. Special times together make the world of play joyful!