The invitation has been sent and the table is set.  Now is the time for United Methodist Women to COME TO THE TABLE!

Our theme for 2009 is a reflection  of the Program Book, Who's at the Table?  This year we will explore who is at the table, including ourselves, and invite those who are missing.

When I think about coming to the table I think  about the events that the Oklahoma Conference UMW supports:  Spiritual Growth Retreat, Cooperative School of Christian Mission, Mother-child Retreat, Annual Meeting, Tool Tyme and Neighborhood Santa Operation.  These present opportunities to grow in our knowledge of God, experience freedom  as whole persons, belong to a supportive fellowship and expand our concepts of mission.

Sound familiar?  These are the four parts of our PURPOSE.  That is what we as United Methodist Women are all about.  I also thin  abut the many ways our Mission Giving supports work with women, children and youth in the United States and all around the globe.  As this is my first article as  Conference President, let me tell you a little about my journey to the table.

In 1971, I was invite to attend the WSCS at my church in Kansas City, MO.  The next year the congregation's UMW organization was formed and as a young member I was asked to read the literature and interpret the new organization to our group.  I attended meetings and participated as I was able (with a young daughter at home).  A few years later I became an officer of the Barnsdall unit.  I served eight years on the Stillwater District mission team and another eight as conference treasurer and vice president.  I am married, retired and have two grown daughters and six grandchildren, ages one to eleven.  Like many of you, I have served my local unit and church in a variety of positions through the years.

I am looking forward to our being together as we
"Come to the Table".
Kathy Caldron, President
Oklahoma Conference United Methodist Women