El Camino Real Bell
 

El Camino Real District UMW
Reading Program

 


United Methodist Women

Start the 2013 Reading Program year with a new book list!

The 2013 Reading Program book list is now available. See the titles, authors, and descriptions in a file suitable for viewing online or printing. We will also have the printed booklets available at the 2013 District UMW Events. Books from the 2013 list, as well as 5 previous years (that qualify for this year's program) can be purchased from United Methodist Women Mission Resources or from your favorite bookseller.
 

2013 Reading Program Sampler

How Coffee Saved My Life by Ellie Roscher. At 25, Ellie Roscher, a self- described rich, white North American overachiever, decided to spend a year in Lascano, Uruguay. She reveals her physical and emotional struggles for survival, and though spiritually tried and tested, she eventually flourished beautifully. This is the story of Ms. Roscher’s year-long mission and how, through a multitude of grace- filled moments, she discovers that God has accompanied her all along the journey. (See more selections from Education for Mission.)

Outcasts United by Warren St. John. Clarkston, Georgia, was designated as a refugee settlement center in the 1990s and became the first American home for families in flight from the world’s war zones. Outcasts United is the stunning real-life story of an inspiring group of refugees and a woman who, with tough love and fiery determination, changes an entire community for the better. (See more selections from Leadership Development.)

A Hopeful Earth by Sally Dyck and Sarah Ehrman. A Hopeful Earth bridges the gap between Jesus and the environment and guides readers in their understanding that living as good stewards of God’s creation is a significant component of what it means to follow Jesus. Readers will discover how the church can reach out to younger generations by joining them in the race to save the planet. (Leader Guide also available.) (See more selections from Social Action.)

Plain Wisdom: An Invitation into an Amish Home and the Hearts of Two Women by Cindy Woodsmall and Miriam Flaud. Best-selling novelist Cindy Woodsmall might seem to have little in common with Miriam Flaud, but they both have found the secrets to facing life with strength and grace, and welcome you into their friendship. Plain Wisdom is a heartwarming celebration of God, womanhood and the search for beauty that unites us all. (See more selections from Nurturing Community.)

Signs of Life by David Jeremiah. The book discusses signs of life – signs that Jesus has transformed us and that we are committed to him and his kingdom. Signs of Life will lead the reader on a journey to a fuller understanding of the marks that identify one as a Christian, that advertise your faith – the imprints that can impact souls for eternity and help one become a person of influence who radiates relevancy, authenticity, generosity and compassion every day, just like Jesus did. (See more selections from Spiritual Growth.)

 

Frequently Asked Questions About the Reading Program

1. How Can I Participate in the Reading Program?

 

See the full details of the current Reading Program plans on the UMW website Reading Program Page.

There are four plans to choose from, and you may choose books from the current year's list and/or the previous 5 years.



2. What is the timeline for participating in the Reading Program?

The Reading Program year runs from October of one year through early September of the following year.

October - The new book list is published in the October issue of "Response". The new book list brochure is available at the District Annual Celebration (typically the first Saturday of October), and a small supply of the new books is normally also available for purchase. You can also purchase books through United Methodist Women Mission Resources or your favorite bookseller.

October through August of the next year - Read! Keep track of the books you have read, their category, and the plan you are working toward.

September - Report your participation in the Reading Program to your unit, who will in turn send a report to the District Secretary of Program Resources. (Each unit will receive a request for this report in late August.)

1st Saturday of October - Annual Celebration! Awards for Reading Program participation are given.



3. Who can I contact if I have other questions about the Reading Program?

Please contact either of your District Co-Secretaries of Program Resources, Helen Kinel or Rhonda Canale.