our spiritual leaders/elders at Fairlawn West UCC

Mother's Day was a historic day for us at Fairlawn West. I don't simply mean our hosting the Women Standing for the World. Rather, the women elders of our church were lifted up for their spiritual wisdom! Leaders in the past (predominantly men) were acknowledged for their business acumen, their financial management or their ability to lead us as an organization. The picture of Isabel Hershberger was on the screen this Mother's Day as one of the profound spiritual wise elders of our church. There were others present like Bonna Thompson, Marian Bickley, Dorothy Morra, Marilyn Hodge, Mary Mounts, Becky Hershberger, Sally Bowman, Chloe Ann Kriska, Dottie Pasher, Mary Beth Kluge, Donna Scott. (I know I am missing someones. I will remember and list them in future articles.)

Our church is focused on its mission of serving Christ. These women have committed their lives to studying scripture, praying and leading by their own example of being elders and learning much about discipleship of Jesus Christ later in their life. Their leadership models and personal journeys are a new cornerstone for us!!

As I talked about such women among us on Mother's Day, I realized how leadership in Christ has changed for us in such a profound way. In the past many of these women were overlooked or ignored. It was to our own demise and loss. God has granted us a reprieve! I am grateful for these wise spiritual leaders among us.