Historically, women’s ministry dates back to Biblical times where women such as Sarah, Deborah, Ruth, Mary, and Martha, had an influence on the development of the early church. A prominent scripture which Christians use as a Biblical precedent as to the purpose of women's ministry is found in Titus 2:3-5.

Titus 2:3-5 (NLT) In the same way, teach the older women to live in a way that honors God. They must not slander others or be heavy drinkers. Instead, they should teach others what is good. These older women must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children, to live wisely and be pure, to work in their homes, to do good, and to be submissive to their husbands. Then they will not bring shame on the word of God.

One of the first women’s groups was the Woman’s Missionary Union (WMU). WMU was founded in 1888 as an ancillary branch to the Southern Baptist Convention. The primary purpose of the organization was to educate and inspire preschoolers, children, youth, and adults in the cause of Christian missions. It seeks to send out women in the mission of God and to connect women with outreach opportunities.

But in more recent times, the need for a more prominent authority from women in the Christian church has emerged due to the increasing number of women attending church. Research done in 2000 by the Barna Research Group shows that women are the driving force in church attendance, as 9 out of 10 women in the United States classify themselves as Christian. The research proves that 69% of women are looking for a deep spiritual connection, a connection they look to find in the Bible, small group meetings, and time with mentors. This level of involvement demands organization; thus women’s ministry groups developed in order to provide that outlet.

Three Rivers Baptist Association’s WMU/Women’s ministry was developed with the goal of meeting the spiritual needs of women and helping them to grow in their faith in Jesus Christ. Plus it is the goal of the team to help churches provide “mission education” throughout the life of the church. WMU has developed mission’s curriculum for all ages from preschool to adults. Therefore, our WMU/Women’s Ministry Team exists to serve women and to teach women how to minister to others. It is our desire to be action based and to help women focus on living a Godly life with guidance from the Bible.

TEAM MEMBERS:

• Jen Abbott                   Co-Director           
• Jeannie Blakemore     Co-Director  
• Debbie Eddington        Team Member