"Between Women of God" Women's Ministry Newsletter

Purpose of IBC Women’s Ministry

Present the gospel of Jesus Christ and it’s liberating and transforming power, Promote spiritual growth and worship through prayer and the study of Scripture, Provide fellowship, encouragement, and support to women in all stages of life.

Bible Study

Bible study is the center branch of the Women’s Ministry Tree and because the Word of God is the foundation of a Christian life, the Bible is the basis of IBC’s ministry to women. Study topics offered are delivered through relational, inductive, and expository teaching. Also included are opportunities for spiritual growth through share and prayer groups, Scripture memory, support and mentoring in life skills, and spiritual discipline workshops. The sessions meet Tuesdays, 9:00-11:30 AM and 7:00-8:30 PM during two semesters: Fall (Sept. – Nov.) and Winter (Jan.-April). Child Care is provided on Tuesday AM only. For details on Classes being offered each term, see the Women’s Ministry Newsletter, “Between Women of God” which is published three times yearly.

Nurturing Women

“Showers of Blessings” A church supported initiative to coordinate Bridal and Baby Showers for first-time brides and first-time mothers who are members or regular attendees of IBC. The Women’s Ministry desires to honor marriage and motherhood…ordained by God as two of His richest “Blessings!” Scheduling request forms are in the literature rack on the Women’s Ministry board.

"Secret Sisters" A ministry of encouragement for Christian women which begins in February and runs the seasons of a year, ending in February of the next year with a party to reveal the Secret Sister. Cards, gifts, and prayer requests are exchanged…SECRETLY! Birthdays and anniversaries are honored, as well as special days of the year. In January of each year, secret sister information is submitted and names are drawn.

"Healing Hands" This ministry seeks to use the handiwork of women to be an encouragement to others who are suffering in one form or another. Blankets, quilts, etc. for hospitals, elderly, shut-ins, nursing homes, etc. Check the Women's Ministry Newsletter for further details.

The following three ministries (when functioning) are on a Fall-Winter schedule. They are activated as the need arises. If you are interested in participating in one of them, you may call the church office.

Preschool Play Group An outreach ministry to stay-at-home moms of preschoolers. A weekly time of fellowship and encouragement while the children play is complemented with monthly crafts and outings, determined by the participants.

Mom’s Day Out A weekly scheduled babysitting co-op for members and regular attendees of IBC with preschool children.

Working Women’s R&R A monthly opportunity for Refreshment and Renewal of spirit, soul and body for any woman employed full or part-time in the workplace or in a home-based business.

Special Events

Special Events is a branch of the Women’s Ministry that oversees and encourages participation in events such as the following.

Mother/Daughter Banquet – A celebration of motherhood planned annually for the first or second weekend in May. Activities generally include special music, skits, door prizes, spiritual challenges and a delicious meal.

Ladies’ Retreat – Offered traditionally in the Spring on the even years, an overnight event is held at Camp Joy-el near Greencastle, PA. On the odd years, day retreats may be planned to take place at the church.

Conferences – There are many excellent conferences sponsored by Christian organizations that offer great times of fellowship with other women around God’s Word. Volunteers are encouraged to facilitate attendance at these conferences through the “Special Events Coordinator”

Other Events – There are numerous ideas for events that would be a blessing to women. They are all welcome, as well as the volunteers to lead them. To see ideas implemented, please contact the “Special Events Coordinator.” All suggestions will be taken to the W.M. Committee, and upon approval, support and direction will be given to any person willing to direct that special event.