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WELCAWELCA, or the Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, is a community of women within the church. This group of women meets monthly to discuss business of the organization and to share fellowship. In addition, there are meetings of smaller Bible study groups, or Circles. The Circles, which are named for notable women in the bible (Abigail, Naomi and Ruth), schedule their own monthly meetings and use a guide for Bible study. However, each group has its own style and dynamic and everyone enjoys the camaraderie as well as the knowledge gained. Receptions for new confirmands and new members are hosted by the WELCA group and they also provide luncheons at the church after funeral services. Once a year, in celebration of women, members of WELCA conduct the worship service. They handle everything from ushering and children’s sermon to readings and the sermon for the adults. The WELCA community is an integral part of First United. (Back to Top) Warming ShelterAs a way of giving back to our community, First United Lutheran sponsors one day a month to shop for, prepare and serve food at our local warming shelter. Starting in the morning, our Warming Shelter “crew” gets together and prepares a delicious hot meal (or something cool and refreshing in the Summer months), as well as sandwiches, fruit , desserts, and beverages, to be served to local residents and families that are in need. Later in the day, another group of volunteers spends the evening serving and getting to know the recipients of the meals at the local shelter. All ages of our Church membership get involved; often whole families participate in this worthwhile, rewarding experience. (Back to Top) Prayer Shawl MinistryThe Prayer Shawl Ministry (now know as The Yarn Spinners) is an active Community Outreach project started at First United Lutheran Church in the spring of 2005. So much progress has been made by the group, regardless if there are two or ten in attendance. There is really no right or wrong way to create these wonderful gifts, nor do the shawls all have to be alike. When you finish a shawl, it will be blessed and given to someone to whom it will have a very special meaning. If you are making a shawl with a particular person in mind, that can be very rewarding. There is no time limit to finish your shawl and supplies such as yarn, knitting needles, and crochet hooks can be provided if necessary. Some uses for the shawl are for those undergoing medical procedures; as a comfort after a loss, during bereavement, marriage ceremonies, births, during an illness and recovery, ministering to others, or just socializing…The possibilities are endless! Since the group began two years ago, not only have Prayer Shawls been given out, but the group has worked continuously to provide approximately 200 hats and scarves for children in the Hammond School system! Currently, we are working on lap robes and prayer shawls that will be given to Hospice of the Calumet Area. Don’t let the fact that you don’t knit or crochet stop you from joining us! We have women willing to teach anyone (even you lefties) how to work knitting needles or crochet hooks and read a pattern. Perhaps you would like to add the fringe to the shawls. If you have writing or design abilities, we can use you! Cards are sent with each shawl and can be created as seen fit. Perhaps you would like to deliver a shawl to someone and make their day with a visit. Please consider joining us – to feel the rhythm of the rows and stitches all tied together, a sign of the tie that binds us all together, that of God’s love and mercy. Contact Vikki Mize with any questions or comments. (Back to Top)
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