Advent Day 14 – Peace – United Women in Faith

Naming the Promise
Luke 1:57-66
“They were going to name him Zechariah after his father. But his mother said, “No; he is to be called John.’” (Luke 1:59-60)

The birth of John the Baptist is a moment of profound joy and unexpected faithfulness. Zechariah and Elizabeth, a couple who had long waited for a child, find their prayers answered in a miraculous way. His birth is more than a personal joy; it signals God’s unfolding plan to prepare the way for the Messiah. Elizabeth boldly declares that her son will not carry the name of his father but will instead be called John meaning “God is gracious”, a name that signals a new chapter in God’s plan. In this story, we see how God often works in unexpected ways to bring about renewal and transformation. This naming is a declaration of faith in God’s promises and an acknowledgement of the role John will play in preparing the way for Christ.  

The United Women in Faith embody this spirit of bold faith and transformative action. Through their mission to support women, children, and youth, they carry forward a legacy of naming and addressing the needs of the world in ways that reflect God’s justice and compassion. For decades, they have been a leading force within the United Methodist Church, championing these issues and their ministries reflect the heart of Advent: preparing the way for God’s hope, peace, joy, and love to enter the world.

The UWF is to be a community of women whose purpose is to know God and to experience freedom as whole persons through Jesus Christ; to develop a creative, supportive fellowship; and to expand concepts of mission through participation in the global ministries of the church.

We asked some UWF members what they love most about their circle:

Kathy Leftwich (Martha Circle) said, “what I really enjoy about United Women in Faith is the fellowship, hearing people’s stories, sharing about our faith – when it’s good and when it’s rocky. My circle loves food so when we meet, we love to eat. We share recipes. It’s such a communal aspect. Something that might not be apparent in our monthly gatherings is the intergenerational aspect of UWF, but I can see it when we have our annual parties and our executive board meetings.”

Mary Ann Wansong (Anna Circle) said, “The love and support we have for one another and others. When we gather there is always excited conversation with laughter and sometimes tears. Our faith is strong and is the center of our coming together.”

Sharon LeDuc (Eve Circle) said, “learning and sharing about issues of interest to UWF.”

Kim Everette (Ruth Circle) pointed to a core tenet of United Women in Faith quoting, “we believe love in action can change the world.”

Whether advocating for education, health, or economic opportunities, the United Women in Faith remind us that naming the needs and responding to them is a sacred act. Their work is a testimony to the belief that every person carries the potential for renewal and hope, just as John’s birth heralded a new beginning for God’s people.

Prayer: Faithful God, you bring new life and new hope in unexpected ways. Thank you for the bold faith of Elizabeth and Zechariah, who trusted in your promises and embraced your calling. Bless the work of the United Women in Faith, who name the needs of the world and respond with compassion. May their efforts bring justice, renewal, and hope to those who are most vulnerable. As we prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ, teach us to recognize the new things you are doing among us. Help us to name your promises with faith and courage, and to nurture them with love and action. In the name of Jesus, the one who fulfills all promises, we pray. Amen.

Action: Learn more about the work of the United Women in Faith and find a circle that best fits you.