Enhancing community

We join organizations like Women of the ELCA for a variety of reasons: to enjoy fellowship, to take part in activities that interest us, and to be part of group that shares our passion for something. 

We can help others see where they fit in Women of the ELCA by striving to be inviting, welcoming, and engaging. 

These ideas and resources will help you enhance your unit’s sense of community.

• Women of the ELCA purpose statement Our purpose statement gives us a framework for our ministries and activities. Keep your group focused on it so that women are not expecting something other than what Women of the ELCA is about.
• An umbrella organization We need to look seriously at how we can incorporate the gifts, desires, and passions of all women. Our founding mothers did just that when they wrote our constitution and created the variety of models for structuring Women of the ELCA groups. If your structure doesn't seem flexible or is limiting participation, it’s time to look at a new model.
• Shared Wisdom: An Effective Style of Leadership: Are there occasional, or even frequent, differences of opinion at your meetings? Do tempers flare? This resource summarizes a group discernment model for decision-making built on the principle that every person has a piece of the wisdom, but not all of it. Try it at your next meeting to help move you in a new direction.
• Join the conversation on our Facebook page: Wondering what worked and didn’t work for others? Ask questions and share ideas with women throughout the organization.
• Spiritual gifts inventory: Knowing what your gifts are can help you find just the right place within an organization. Use this inventory with the women in your unit and assist them in fitting into or starting a new role or activity.