Jan./Feb. response: Inspire

Welcome to a new year and to a new look for response.

by Audrey Stanton-Smith

We promise to continue bringing you thought-provoking Bible studies, Bright Lights from our sisters throughout the globe, and great features on places and programs supported by United Women in Faith. But we’ve been listening to your suggestions for improvement!

You want …

More photos? Check.

Easier-on-the-eyes formatting? You’ve got it!

A puzzle? We’re starting with a word search.

To get to know your sisters near and far? Yes!

Opportunities to contribute? Absolutely!

Our new photo challenge asks you to get behind the camera and click. We want to see where you’re reading response, where you’re reading books from our Reading Program, and how you’re doing Soul Care. (Learn more on page 4.)

Are you a writer? Do you have an opinion, advice, or encouragement on a topic that our members and readers may find helpful? Mary Beth Coudal kicks off our first “Our Readers Write” on page 20 with her thoughts on caregiving for a family member with Parkinson’s. Your 300- to 500-word essays are welcome at response@uwfaith.org.

Would you like to introduce yourself or a member of your unit to our readers?
Follow our example from President ‘Ainise ‘Isama’u on page 10 and e-mail us a Member Profile and photo. You could be highlighted in our next issue!

As always, we want to continue featuring your Bright Lights! Keep sharing your great news and photos about the many wonderful ways your groups are embodying love in action.

This year, we’re still thinking, learning, listening, and giving, but we’ve organized things a little differently. Find stories to nourish your spirit in our Inspire section.
Then, use the Influence section for stories on leadership, member activities, and networking. Finally, our Impact section is designed to bring you news about giving, service, and advocacy on national and international levels.

And we’re still closing with a prayer. This time, I am opening with one, too:

Dear God, I am so thankful for each person who opens this magazine or clicks through its digital pages. I am thankful for the wonderful writers, photographers, artists, and designers who grace these pages. May this new year bring great things for United Women in Faith and our response readers. Help us all to continue putting love into action. Help us to connect and nurture our sisters so that they may inspire, influence, and impact communities at home and abroad. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Audrey Stanton-Smith is editor of response.