A collection of colorful quilts draped over the church rail in front of the lectern.
Several boxes of food on and under a table, to be taken to FISH, Inc.
Women of the ELCA (WELCA)
Our Purpose: As a community of women created in the image of God, called to discipleship in Jesus Christ, and empowered by the Holy Spirit, we commit ourselves to grow in faith, affirm our gifts, support one another in our callings, engage in ministry and action, and promote healing and wholeness in the church, the society, and the world.
Women of the ELCA is a ministry of the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) that operates on the congregation level, the synod level, and the churchwide level. There are more than 4,500 WELCA groups across the US and the Caribbean that gather for service, study, advocacy, and fellowship.
As a nationwide ministry, we seek to be a community of women that provide services in their congregations, their communities and in the wider world. Their mission is to mobilize women to act boldly on their faith in Jesus Christ.
For more information on Women of the ELCA, please see their webpage: www.womenoftheelca.org
Our WELCA ministry meets in two circles - The Rebekah/Ruth Circle and the Lydia Circle. The circles come together several times per year for joint programs, devotions, fellowship, and food.
Gather is the magazine of WELCA, offering articles, reflections, devotions, and stories as we engage in our faith.
Café is another publication from WELCA - an online magazine and podcast geared to and for young women.
Rebekah/ Ruth Circle
Rebekah/Ruth circle meets twice monthly to work together on quilted, crocheted or knitted blankets, lap blankets and prayer shawls for distribution to community members.
These meetings are paused for summer and should resume in late August or September. Please check back for updates once the meeting dates are set.
Two church members working on quilts
A group of church members going through donated fabric
Two church members holding a quilt made in a blue color scheme
Two church members working on quilts
Lydia Circle
Lydia Circle meets monthly on the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30pm and is paused for summer. Meetings will resume on September 8, 2026.
This group participates in a variety of service activities in the local community. The Lydia Circle's ministry includes service projects with the Virginia Synod Women's Organization. Past and present projects include food drives for FISH, Inc, baby supply drives for Hope Pregnancy Center, supporting Latisha's House Foundation, supporting the Summer Meals for Kids program, and sponsoring a family for Christmas through the Christian Appalachian Project.
Lydia Circle also hosts fellowship events throughout the year, like our annual Trunk or Treat. Events will be posted on the church calendar.
A group of women posed behind water filtration and solar light kits they've just assembled.
A group of 3 church members (2 in costume) posed in front of their open car trunk, awaiting the arrival of trick-or-treaters.
Two women grilling hot dogs to serve during Trunk or Treat
A group of women posed behind water filtration and solar light kits they've just assembled.