Purpose

United Methodist Women shall 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.

For more information visit www.unitedmethodistwomen.org or join the online community at www.umwonline.org which provides an interactive platform for engagement in mission. All current information about Oxford United Methodist Women can be found in the monthly Spires newsletter.

Small Groups

All women are invited to join in the fellowship and programs of either small group, or circle, which meets on the third Wednesday of the month during the school year.

Rebecca Barbour Circle meets at 9:30AM in the homes of its members. One or two study books are selected for reading and discussion during

Sara Norris-Hallie Wiant Circle meets at 2:00 in the homes of its members also. Various topics are chosen for each meeting during the program year.

Theme for 2019 – Growing in Blessedness

Some of the most treasured verses in scripture are the Beatitudes in Matthew 5:1-12, but the blessing Jesus talks about is not one that you keep to yourself. It is one to be shared.

It is common to think of a blessing from God as a benefit, such as prosperity, but the primary way to understand “blessing” is as relationship—valued and favored by God. Any benefit flows from this relationship, and the relationship itself is rewarding.

The puzzling thing about the Beatitudes is they call people blessed whom we would not ordinarily think of as such. It may be that Jesus names these people because those in need are the ones who turn to God for help, therefore strengthening their relationship with God. The Beatitudes turn our expectations upside down and make us want to look to God instead of trusting in ourselves or in what we have. We need to think about how God can fill the empty places in our lives so that we may be full for others.

Fund Raising

Thanks to the many women and men who work to make our fund raising events a success. Monetary donations (checks payable to Oxford UMW) can be put in the offering plate or left in the church office.

Among the projects that Oxford UMW supports are missionaries in Belize and projects of the Women’s Division both in the United States and abroad that benefit women, children and youth.

Pecans

The sale of pecans and cashews begins with the Fall Soup and Salad Luncheon and lasts until they are all sold. Thanks to our loyal customers for supporting this fund raiser.

These attractively packaged pecans make a great hostess gift, or stir up a quick batch of Sugar and Spice Pecans and give them as a gift in an attractive container. Recipes are available.

Pecans stored in the refrigerator will keep for about nine months. In the freezer they will remain in good condition for two years. Pecans can be frozen again and again without affecting quality or texture. Open the bag when thawing.

Research shows that pecans have the most antioxidants of any nut. They are also rich in cholesterol- lowering plant steroids and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. So enjoy pecans!

Luncheons Spring and Fall

Oxford United Methodist Women hold two fund raising luncheons in Fellowship Hall each year beginning at 11:00 a.m. and serving until 1:00 p.m.

The Spring Food Fair is held on the fourth Wednesday in April.

The Fall Soup and Salad Luncheon is held on the fourth Wednesday in October.

The Spring Food Fair features turkey and spinach salads and a help-yourself buffet of many other salads as well as beverage and choice of dessert. Served from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m., the cost is $7.00 for adults. Preschoolers are free. A bake sale and a Treasures sale are also held from 10:45 until 1:15.

The Fall luncheon features minestrone and vegetarian soups along with the help-yourself salad buffet, beverage and dessert. The cost is $7.00 for adults. Preschoolers are free. Again, a bake sale and a Treasures sale are held from 10:45 until 1:15, along with a Holiday Shop.

Rummage Sales twice a year in May and September

Rummage sales are an easy way for members and friends to recycle items they no longer use. They also provide an opportunity for people in the community with low incomes to buy needed items at a reasonable price.

Leftover items in the past have been donated to the Oxford Family Resource Center Thrift Store, New 2 You and the Lighthouse Thrift Store, both in Hamilton, Goodwill, Roosevelt Thrift in Middletown, and Henderson Settlement in Frakes, Kentucky.

Funeral Luncheons and Receptions

A luncheon or reception is prepared at the church for the family and friends of the bereaved. A Guide for Families Planning Funeral Meals is available in the church office. Contact one of the pastors, the church office, or Barbara Clawson at 523-6044 to make arrangements.