Saturday, November 21, 2020

WOC's 45th Anniversary: November 27-30

WOC's 45th Anniversary: November 27-30 
Greetings!
As Mary Schaefer preached during our first Conference liturgy in 1975: "Advent is the season for prophets: people who wait in the darkness and long for the dawn, people who hear God speak in their wilderness and stammer out that message to all who will hear ..."

I believe it is quite poignant that we will celebrate our 45th anniversary not only on Thanksgiving weekend, a time when we express our gratitude to the hearts and hands that offer us home and nourishment, but also the First Sunday of Advent, a time of deep anticipation and hope.

Together, may we give thanks to those visionary and courageous members of the first organizing task force, who gathered in Detroit - filled with anticipation - to claim their sacramental equality. They embarked on a journey that we continue today, sometimes in the wilderness, always in hope, and with an unwavering love for justice. 

I hope next weekend (November 27-30) is an opportunity for all those who have broken bread at the table of justice and found strength along the way to share in our collective successes as we prophetically persist, joyfully resist, and model a renewed priesthood in the world.
Pre-Gala Provisions
Can't wait to celebrate? Here are a few ways to prepare for the gala!

  • As you might imagine, we’ve developed a few signature “WOC-tail” concoctions over the years! A glass of “Feminine Genius,” anyone? We’ll toast WOC during our Friday opening event. Cheers!

  • To prepare for our Sunday liturgy, Breaking Bread at the Table of Justice, we have our favorite bread recipes (including gluten-free and vegan options) to bake for communion. Bread for the table.
A Celebration of Prophetic Persistence
November 27th 
Noon (EST) 
Purple Friday

Join us for the opening ceremonies of the virtual gala, where we’ll raise a glass to WOC, open the online auction, and host a short and fun quiz about WOC’s story. This is an opportunity to be with other supporters, share stories, and celebrate this milestone.
November 28th:
Prophetic Voices

Throughout the day we will release short video messages from theologians, former staff members, activists, and friends of WOC! There is no need to register, just enjoy on social media and in your inbox.
November 29th
10:30 a.m. (EST)
Breaking Bread at the Table of Justice

Whether you have been a part of our feminist liturgies for 45 years, or would like to participate in one for the first time, you are welcome and your presence enriches our gathering.
#WOC45

Share the love for ordination justice on social media throughout the weekend using #WOC45. Happy birthday messages, favorite photos, *you* in your WOC swag, memories, or snaps of you raising a glass to WOC with one of our signature cocktails… we want to see it all! Tag us @OrdainWomen on Facebook or Twitter and @womensordination on Instagram.
Shop small 
at the online auction

Shop small this season by supporting the online auction! We have many creative and talented members who are graciously sharing their talents with us… the auction opens on “Purple Friday.”

Preview the items now (click "auction" at the top of the page) and register to participate.
Make a membership donation!

We are a movement wholly supported by our members. Please make a solidarity donation to set the course for the next chapter of this incredible movement for gender justice in our Church.
Thank you for your friendship, your ministries, your donations, and your witness -- you are the heart and strength of the Women's Ordination Conference!
With gratitude,
Kate McElwee
Executive Director


P.S. Many thanks to our sponsors and to those who have already joined the celebrations by renewing your membership by mail. We are adding your contributions to our online totals as as we work towards our goal of $45,000 for 45 years!

 

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