Presbyterian Women:
On 1 May 2008 a new women’s organisation will be launched within the Presbyterian Church in Ireland. The name of this organisation will be Presbyterian Women, incorporating the current Presbyterian Women’s Association and the Young Women’s Groups. This marks the end of a seven year process, during which the leadership of the PWA and the YWG have prayerfully reassessed the work, outreach and role of the organisation. The purpose of this process has been to discern God’s will for the future.
There have been women’s organisations within the Presbyterian Church in Ireland for over one hundred and thirty years. Changes have occurred at regular intervals throughout this time – changes in name, vision, function and administration. We are convinced that it is now time to re-launch a fresh, reinvigorated women’s organisation which is relevant to all women. Proverbs 29:18 tells us that “without a vision the people perish”. Our vision is that Presbyterian Women will encourage women to become disciples of Christ.
Presbyterian Women will continue to work in close partnership with the Board of Mission in Ireland in relation to the management of Deaconesses and will continue to provide a significant percentage of the finance for this work. Through the giving of our members we were able to help facilitate this work by giving a grant to the Board of Mission in Ireland for £360,000 in 2007. Historically PWA has practically, prayerfully and pastorally supported Deaconess work and this will continue to be one of our Aims. As an organisation of women it is our desire to support and encourage women to reach out with the good news of the Gospel to their local congregations and community, the Deaconesses are part of this ministry.