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Inspiring Connections: Women Leaders of The UMC in Europe Gather in Munich
by Tatiana Dwyer
From October 24-27, 2024, 29 United Methodist women leaders from 16 countries of Continental Europe and the United States gathered in Munich, Germany, for a transformative leadership event jointly hosted by United Women in Faith (UWFaith) and German United Methodist Women. Themed “Enter New Ground, Embrace Change,” the gathering provided a unique opportunity for women to connect, share their experiences, and strategize about pressing issues in the church and beyond.
This long-awaited meeting, delayed twice due to the pandemic, began with a warm welcome. Participants enjoyed a light welcome meal, engaged in icebreaker activities, and shared heartfelt introductions that sparked meaningful connections. The first devotional, led by Sung-ok Lee of United Women in Faith, invited the group to reflect on the unshakable faith of Joshua and Caleb in Numbers 13-14, the scripture for the gathering, and to consider what new opportunities God might be placing before them.
Celebrating Shared Missions
A key focus of the gathering was understanding the diverse roles of women within the church and their communities. Each participant shared a presentation about their women’s organization, highlighting membership, missions, key programs, and challenges. This exchange of ideas revealed a shared commitment to empowering women, despite regional differences, and sparked discussions about common challenges such as engaging younger generations, balancing work and spiritual life, and addressing societal issues like climate change, migration, and gender equity.
Identifying Priorities
Through small group discussions, participants identified key shared priorities: reaching younger women, balancing work and spiritual growth, and improving communication among women in Europe. They shared success stories and brainstormed innovative solutions, including youth-led worship programs, targeted retreats, and enhanced use of social media platforms to engage younger audiences.
Inspiration and Fellowship
Day two featured powerful messages, including a devotional by Bishop Harald Rückert of Germany and an address by the Rev. Dr. Raphaela Swadosch, who emphasized “The Power of Sisterhood.” Drawing on the story of Ruth and Naomi, she encouraged participants, in the midst of challenges and hardships, to embrace their talents and work in solidarity to create a supportive global community.
Moving Forward with Grace
Sally Vonner, general secretary/CEO of UWFaith, and Bishop Rückert led the group in a discussion of some of the key outcomes of General Conference held in the Spring, related to women’s work:
The 2024 General Conference in Charlotte marked a turning point for The United Methodist Church (UMC), addressing key issues of representation, global balance, and unity amid diversity. Women made up 37% of the delegates, still not meeting equity in gender representation. Currently women comprise 57% of The United Methodist Church. Vonner emphasized the importance of women’s voices being heard and General Conference being a forum for women’s leadership in The UMC.
Bishop Harald Rückert highlighted that the approved regionalization legislation would empower regions to focus on local priorities while maintaining a unified global body. Therefore, Central Conferences ratifying the plan would be essential for the whole Church.
The gathering wasn’t all work; there was plenty of time for fellowship and fun! A guided tour of Munich spotlighted the city’s remarkable women in history, and participants shared a delicious Bavarian meal at a local restaurant that celebrated diversity and inclusion.
The event wrapped up with a shared commitment to stay connected through monthly online cafés to exchange mission insights and news and pray together. New friendships blossomed, old connections deepened, and a shared vision for the future took root. As participants joined in Sunday worship and a farewell luncheon prepared by a local congregation at Friedenskirche church, the spirit of sisterhood and hope was unmistakable.
The European Women’s Leadership Gathering wasn’t just a meeting. It marked the beginning of a shared journey to inspire one another, influence each other’s mission and ministry, and create a brighter future for the church and the world.
Tatiana Dwyer is the executive for international programs at United Women in Faith. As connectional officer, Sung-ok Lee is responsible for developing and strengthening United Women in Faith’s relationships with U.S. and international partners.
