written by Holly Hall, member First UMC Jonesboro
On April 26, 2025, women from across Northeast Arkansas gathered at First United Methodist Church of Jonesboro (FUMCJ) for a day that beautifully captured the heart and mission of United Women in Faith (UWF).
More than just a conference, this gathering was a living testament to why UWF is still so essential today — a movement driven by love, action, and an unwavering commitment to changing the world for women, children, and youth.
Rooted in a Bold History
FUMCJ member Beverly Petty opened the day by revisiting the powerful history of United Women in Faith — a legacy that began in 1869 when two missionary wives, Clementina Butler and Lois Parker, made an urgent plea for help for women in India. Moved by the desperate need for female doctors and educators, eight women in Boston acted swiftly. They organized, raised funds, and sent the first female educator and doctor to India. What started as a small gathering led to lasting institutions like Isabella Thoburn College and the first women’s hospital in Asia — both of which still serve today.
This spirit of showing up and getting things done is alive and well in United Women in Faith. As UWF boldly proclaims:
“We believe love in action can change the world.”
Celebrating Today’s Work and Tomorrow’s Vision
The Northeast Arkansas District Conference celebrated this ongoing legacy. Bishop Laura Merrill delivered a heartfelt message about the transformative power of faithful women across Arkansas and beyond, inspiring attendees to continue their work with renewed purpose. District Superintendent Zach Roberts echoed this sentiment, encouraging women to honor their traditions while also stepping boldly into the future of service and leadership.
There was much to celebrate: the reorganization of the FUMCJ UWF unit, the revitalization of the Beebe unit, and the visible growth of partnerships, like the collaboration between FUMCJ and First Presbyterian Church of Jonesboro — a powerful example of mission transcending denominational lines.
Special recognition was given to state UWF leaders Maybelline Strong and Betty Cook for their dedication to leading and encouraging women across Arkansas.
Throughout the day, women deepened their faith through breakout sessions, prayerful time in a meditation room, and joyful fellowship during a lunch served in the bright atrium of FUMCJ.
Rev. Dede Roberts lifted hearts leading the attendees in singing of “This Is the Day” and called everyone to a powerful truth:
“Women can and must change the world.”
Her words, centered on the lessons from Ann Voskamp’s book, One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are, invited each participant to write down what they love and hold fast to gratitude as a guiding force in their service.
Love in Action — Today and Tomorrow
Every part of the conference reflected the true mission of United Women in Faith: taking tangible action. An offering collected during the event will aid flood victims, a testament to UWF’s steadfast commitment to responding to real-world needs with compassion and generosity.
And the momentum isn’t slowing down. Excitement is already building for the Fall Conference, to be held on September 6, 2025, in Walnut Ridge, with Dr. Michael Beck as keynote speaker.
In a world that sometimes feels fractured and weary, United Women in Faith stands as a beacon of hope — a movement of women who are driven by God’s love, united in sisterhood,and determined to make a difference.
From that first gathering in 1869 to church halls across the world in 2025, the call endures:
Show up. Take action. Change the world.
