Our Mission
Purpose of United Methodist Women
United Methodist Women is 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.
The Purpose is adopted by the General Conference of the United Methodist Church as the official mission statement of United Methodist Women. Out of the Purpose are four mission foci:
- To be a community of women
- To know God
- To develop a creative and supportive fellowship
- To expand concepts of mission
Each foci relates to the mission initiatives and priorities of United Methodist Women and the Women’s Division.
- The Purpose: Korean version (PDF, 17k)
- The Purpose: Spanish version (PDF, 39k)
Mission Map
Visit this mission map to learn more about UMW missions around the world.
About Our Logo
- click to enlarge
The emblem of United Methodist Women, the cross and the flame, symbolizes our organization. The cross and flame are ancient symbols of the church and appear on the United Methodist Church emblem. Both symbols remind us of the opportunities and obligations of discipleship.
Paul’s words to Timothy have fresh and contemporary meanings, “...I remind you to stir into flame the gift of God which is within you...” (II Timothy 1:6). As United Methodist Women, we give our gift of God with others through mission.
As parts of our emblem, the cross and flame remind us of our PURPOSE of growing in our understanding of and willingness to participate in the global ministries of the church. They remind us of our heritage of women who pioneer in service for the church at home and in other countries.
The overall shape of the emblem is also symbolic. Fluid and free flowing, the shape suggests change and mobility. The women who came before us were at the forefront of movements for change. Always aware of the times, we move with ever changing circumstances rather than feeling overwhelmed by them. We are a group of Christian women with many gifts who are unified by one Spirit. We participate in God’s mission in all areas of life.
For more guidelines about the use of the UMW logo, click here.