United Methodist Women met on May 4 for the annual memorial service, which was planned by Just Three circle and led by Ruth Vermedahl and Eileen Larson. A beautiful rendition of “My Faith Looks Up to Thee” was played by Merle Stensrud before the “Remembrance and Roses” service. Those women remembered were: Marie Reese, Fay Zimmerman, Dora Hayes, Jaris Smith, Genevieve Schneider, Margaret Lidke, Margaret Brownstone and Olive Christensen.

Marty Beckmann, president, opened the business meeting with prayer and the purpose. The secretary’s report was accepted as read along with circle reports. Correspondence included a letter from EFCA thanking the group for the donation to John and Judy Westrum’s account. Treasurer Vermedahl gave the financial statement including over $82 for the Least Coin offering. She gave a comprehensive report on UMW conference spending including updating Emma Norton Home.

Adean Turner gave a Mother’s Day reading, and Sharon Nelson spoke on the current world situation. Thanks for help at bingo at Good Samaritan Society and serving at St. John’s Lutheran Home were given by Marcelle Emston.

Co-chair Lea Nolting reported on the Church Women United May Friendship Day, which was held May 6 at Trinity Lutheran Church with the theme “Living Our Friendship, Passing the Key.” She also gave details for assisting Salem Lutheran Church with the scholarship luncheon held May 19.

Dorothy Balder stated that five new books have been given to the reading program. Reading program certificates were presented to Balder, Adean Turner and Fern Urbatsch. Chairman Beckmann placed a plea for a storage place in the church for UMW memorabilia.

New business included emphasis on the “School of Christian Mission” at St. John’s University July 12-17 with various time opportunities. There will be three studies including “The Journey: Forgiveness, Restorative Justice and Reconciliation,” “Haiti: Challenges and Hope” and “Joy to the World” Mission in the Age of Global Christianity.” Registration forms are available.

The unit will be hosting the Southern Prairie Annual Gathering on Sept. 17 with an executive team meeting lunch in July. There was much discussion and further plans will be made.

On June 1 UMW will meet at 9:30 a.m. for coffee and hold a meeting at 10 a.m.

The meeting adjourned with singing of the “Hymn of Promise.”

A delicious salad luncheon was served by Hope Circle following the meeting.