The first of what will be an annual meeting of the Sakakawea District of the United Methodist Women was hosted by the UMW Unit of Jamestown United Methodist Church. Michelle Brenner, Christian education director of First UMC, spoke on the theme "celebrating in peace" at the spiritual retreat about "The Journey."
The Sakakawea District has 54 units. Special mission recognition, "Jewel of a Woman" was awarded to 23 units. Delores Simmers of First UMW and Bernice Schauer, Judy Sundeen, Darla Schmuhl and Dann Holm of St. Paul UMW received the award.
Twenty units, including First and St. Paul, were designated 5 Star units for 2011.
Eleven women of First UMW were recognized for reading 62 books from the UMW reading list.
Carolyn Brauner, president of First UMW, welcomed the women along with Julie Wayne, vice president of the district. Rita Greer and Delette Winkelman shared their UMW stories. Closing worship and memorial memories of deceased members was led by Brenda Rekow.
