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Theme: You're Invited

Apr 152012

Imagine it: The most breath taking wedding you have ever been to. The invitations with gold leaf lettering, mailed long ago; the most fragrant flowers, arranged with care; the bride, breathtaking in a dress made just for her, the groom dashing in his tux; vows recited full of love and hope for what is to come; the reception with sweet music chosen just for this occasion, the guests seated with care at tables elegantly adorned with the finest linen and delicate dinnerware. The food expertly prepared. Can you imagine it? In all our imagination we cannot do justice to the wedding feast of the Lamb the Lord has planned for us!

The Lord has given us an invitation to go on a journey with Him, the journey of a life time, the adventure of, well, an eternity! Before extending that invitation to us He made preparations for us. He created us. He prepared a way for us through His precious son Jesus! From the tree of life in the garden to eternity through the cross, He has made preparations for us. The work did not began or end with the invitation.
What do you do when you receive an invitation to a wedding? You RSVP! God has given us an invitation for relationship with Him, all we have to do is accept it. Once you send back that wedding RSVP you know there will be a place for you at that wedding. Once you accept the invitation God has given us through Christ, there is a room in heaven with your name on it.

With much anticipation you attend the big event. The day of the wedding is here. You do some preparations yourself. You dress yourself accordingly and you show up! Invitations are sent out with the expectation that people will come, and people come with the expectation that when they arrive there the bride and groom will be. God has not offered us an empty invitation. He is here! He is waiting expectantly for our arrival. He wants to be in relationship with us NOW.
Through theme God is preparing a year of events for us to attend that will help us grow closer to Him. We attend bible study to grow in His word, we worship and fellowship together to come together and give Him glory! Special events are offered in retreats, conferences and training that help us to go further and deeper in our daily lives and relationship with Him. The wedding is not the end of the journey, it’s the beginning.

How are you responding to the Lord’s invitation?

Y Theme

Who are we

Apr 132012

YOUR KINGDOM COME!

Bits & Pieces, News & Announcements, Resources

Jun 012011

It’s official the new theme has been launched and all the resources for you to use at your local installations are available. YAY!!

Now is the time! Our theme for 2011-2012 comes straight from the Lord’s Prayer—Your Kingdom Come! This will be a year of not only discovering God’s Kingdom principles, it will be a year of living God’s Kingdom ways.

Theme Scripture:

Matthew 6:9-13 (New King James Version)

9 In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. 10 Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us this day our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. 13 And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory.

Hymn:

Praise and Worship Song:

“Let Your Glory Fall” by David Ruis , © Vineyard Music

For more worship song ideas click HERE.

Theme Artwork:

Your Kingdom Come theme art is centered on the Matthew 6:9-13 passage, the model prayer Jesus taught His disciples. The theme design draws from many principles found in this significant scripture.

“Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name.” Rays of light, from our Father in heaven, come down from above.

“Your kingdom come. Your will be done, On earth as it is in heaven.”

The light flows down from heaven above, intersecting with the earth that we inhabit. When our lives and our wills are surrendered to Him, the life we live becomes a beautiful relationship between the King and the one in service to Him. This connection between the light and the earth signifies living life in communion with the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is illustrated by the dove, who is the power of God working in us, aligning the will for our life to that will which is in heaven. The globe represents our calling to take the Gospel to the uttermost parts of the earth.

“Give us this day our daily bread” is portrayed in the subtle loaf of bread to the left of the rays of light, reminding us of that which provides us physical sustenance. Our daily bread also represents a spiritual truth as we daily require communion with the Word of God.

“And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors.” The lily in the bottom left represents the forgiveness we receive and give. The white in the lily stands for our purity in Christ. It is accented in red, pointing to the blood of Christ, which makes

possible God’s beautiful plan of salvation and His gracious means of providing forgiveness for our sins.

“And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen” The crown in the stained background, and the keys in the border represent The Kingdom of God and He who holds the keys to the Kingdom.

in the lily stands for our purity in Christ. the blood of Christ, which makes possible God’s beautiful plan of salvation and Hisgracious means of providing forgiveness for our sins.

Click HERE to access the resource library and get everything you need.

North East Region Update

regional review

May 192011

Submitted by Michelle Hieb, Northeast Region Administrative Coordinator

This past Tuesday I attended my first and quite possibly only PWOC commencement. I’ve attended many installations, but never a commencement. On 10 May 2011 the Fort Monroe chapter of Protestant Women of the Chapel held their last ever meeting. There were no degrees to be conferred, but the learning, growth, and love that had occurred within those walls was evident. From the beautifully needlepointed cushions on the chairs of the chapel, the Ruth Window, a stained glass window commemorating Army Wives, the polished silver tea services to the cheerful words of those in attendance; all held testament to the loving touch and power of the women who have graced the chapel of Fort Monroe.

Commencement is the only word that came to me as I watched the tearful moments between sisters who had spent months if not decades growing in God’s word together say farewell. Stickers were placed on a map showing how they would soon spread out through the state and the world as they moved on to the next season of life. Each speaker that came to the podium dwelled not on the sadness of the day but encouraged and challenged the members to move ahead and shine the light God had placed within each of them in the new place they would go. The body spontaneously began to sing “This Little Light of Mine” as the executive board passed the light, not to their successor, but to each woman present. The torch was passed not from one generation of selected leaders to the next, but to every member of the body. The task was complete, the training done, it was time for this body of believers to take what God had placed within them and take it out into the world; to allow His Glory to shine through them in whichever church, chapel, or PWOC they would now attend.

It was an awesome sight to watch these events unfold and I was reminded of the awesome gift we have been given in Protestant Women of the Chapel. It’s a unique organization within a unique segment of our population. Here are the women that not only serve the United States but the Most High God. It’s a community not to be taken for granted or regarded carelessly. Each AIM is a unique privilege conferred upon every woman who accepts the title of Member within this body. Our annual theme is not a casual focus for programs and song selection, but God’s truth breathed into our lives for a particular season. Each one is significant to build and grow us into a new height and depth of love and service to our King.

As you face your own commencement this season, I pray that you will take the lessons of Fort Monroe with you and allow God to shine His glory in you and through you. There may not be a ceremony or diploma or any acknowledgement by man of the task you’ve completed or challenge you’ve overcome, but God will see and may His glory shine as He greets you with a “well done good and faithful servant.

Addressing PWOC Changes - Part 3

Leadership Development, Leadership Wednesday, President's Pen

Jun 232010

This post is part three of a three part series. Please see Parts One & Two here.

Communications: This is probably the most visible area of recent and potential change and one that has been discussed the most ministry wide. In working with two terms of international boards and three terms of regional boards, it became very clear where God is at work within PWOC, the chapel and the military at large. We saw the need to be more intentional about reaching out to our military communities and offering the hope of salvation and life in Jesus Christ. For the reasons stated in the Spiritual Development portion of this letter (Addressing PWOC Changes Part 2) as well as the alarming statistics of military divorce and suicide, and the short and long-term affects of war on families, the PWOC Executive Board saw that it was necessary to become more culturally relevant in our graphic look while remaining true to Jesus Christ and His written Word.

In reviewing our overall communications efforts, we found the following:

We are not consistent with the way we use our logo, both by itself and also with other key PWOC ministry offerings such as W.I.L.D. training, conferences, etc.

Our logo looked outdated, and would be less likely to draw a new group of women to the ministry of PWOC.

We didn’t have consistent colors, fonts and messaging points to help ones who didn’t know us readily identify with different elements of PWOC. For example, the past PWOC conferences, training events may not always have a PWOC logo or consistent branded look associated with it. Many on the outside would not have been able to readily identify it as a PWOC event.

For the most part, publicity materials and development guidelines were not available. Local and regional PWOC boards were left to develop their own publicity items without needed direction. Although we did have a PWOC tri-fold flier, it had a “military” look to it (I affectionately referred to this look as “military fluffy”), which is not appealing to women looking for a group who looked relevant to their current needs.

Chapel communications were limited to bulletins unless there was a local PWOC spokesperson available to share current activities of its chapter.

Flow of information from PWOC International to local boards and individual PWOC members was slow moving and sometimes nonexistent.

Based on our findings, the PWOC International Board and its communications team have worked to develop more streamlined resource information and communication avenues. Some of the exciting new items we have developed are following (Note: some items are still in the development process and will be rolled out before the end of the 2008-2010 PWOC International Board’s term):

A daily blog on our web site
An official PWOC International Facebook page has been established, which currently has over 2300 participants. Also, regions are beginning to set up their own FaceBook page in order to help further encourage regional area information flow.

Through changes made in our new one-year old The Women’s Ministry Manual; Official Leaders’ Policy and Guidelines of Protestant Women of the Chapel, we have encouraged each protestant chapel to select a designated woman within their congregation to become their official PWOC representative – Women’s Ministry Coordinator (this can be a PWOC board member) in order that communication flow both ways from chapel to PWOC and PWOC to the chapel.

Development of an official PWOC logo guideline
Future development of a brand guide, which will help every level of PWOC leadership connect all venues and offerings with one consistent ministry experience, look and message of “Christ Centered Sisterhood” within PWOC worldwide. This does not change our Aims or current motto, but is a simple underlying message that we can all connect with by delivering this experience consistently to those who come into contact with us.

Refreshed 2008 PWOC logo developed for the PWOC International Conference, which led to a permanent logo color change (turquoise background) and refreshed look. Officially decided on by consensus of the PWOCI Joint Council at the 2009 PWOCI Joint Council Meeting and posted on the web site in the spring of 2009.

New PWOC International web site graphic look, which was launched in 2009.

Development of a new PWOC outreach mini magazine (to be ready summer 2010). This customizable magazine can be placed in military locations where women go for services such as medical clinics and hospital waiting rooms, hair, nail and spa locations and shops such as, commissaries, PX, BX, NEX, and even in our own military chapels.

Development of new web based theme communications pieces

Development of a new online PWOC International Executive Board Vision video to assist the entire ministry in understanding the overarching vision of PWOC International, in accordance with the current work God is doing within our military communities, chapels and PWOC worldwide.

Development of a new web based promotional materials such as: a Chapel Designated Offering Bulletin Insert, a customizable local PWOC Kick-off Publicity Flier, an Outreach/Invitation Card and customizable Publicity Fliers for PWOC Bible Studies.

In summary, what we have been doing is aligning the ministry more with the current needs of the chaplaincy and women at large within our military communities in order to reach out to the hurting, the lost and the weary. Our desire is that we bring the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the military worldwide and come alongside and bring assistance to our chaplains who have to deal daily with the stresses of the nine-year war we have been in.

We have been given a precious gift from the Lord through this ministry. Our hope is that we shine brightly like a city on a hill by bringing the light of Jesus Christ to the darkness around us within the military and beyond.

May the Lord give each of you a deep passion for the lost, the brokenhearted and those held captive by the lies of the enemy, so that they too can be set free to experience an abundant life in Jesus Christ.

To God Alone Be All the Glory,

Brenda Marlin

President, PWOC International

Align, Arise & Shine!

(2008-2010 PWOC International Board vision statement)

PWOC International Theme Selection Process

Leadership Development, Leadership Wednesday

Jun 022010

Now that we have become PWOC International, some have wondered how our ministry selects a new theme. It all begins a few years out with much prayer to seek the heart of the Lord for our theme. One of the responsibilities of the PWOC International Executive Board is to hear the Lord on the matter of where He is at work and then cast vision for the whole ministry. This is quite an involved process, but basically the PWOC International Executive Board comes together after their season of prayer and discusses what they are each hearing from the Lord on the matter. They then ask the Theme Development Coordinator, Titus II Advisors and Prayer Coordinator to help come alongside them in weighing out matters of understanding what the Lord is saying. The PWOCI Executive Board will come into a consensus decision on the theme, related Scripture(s) and songs. Sometimes this is done in stages. Normally, the theme and Scripture(s) are decided first and then supporting songs follow. We then go to the PWOC International Joint Council, for their consensus decision. Once a final consensus decision is made, the PWOC International Theme Development Coordinator goes to work with the President, to determine main theme teaching points and the supporting artwork. Once all of this is complete, it is rolled out to the PWOC International Board and Regional leadership at the annual PWOC International Vision Week (the meeting place for the PWOCI Board, Regional Presidents and Vice Presidents), to W.I.L.D. (Women Intent on Leadership Development) trainers at W.I.L.D. Train the Trainers weekend, then on to local leadership through W.I.L.D. training and then finally posted on our website June 1^st each year for the entire ministry to view and officially begin using during fall kick-off events at local PWOC’s.

In the past, the theme was held as a “secret” and then rolled out for all to see at the local PWOC fall kick off’s, but now we are more desirous that the entire ministry is prepared for the new season in advance. This year, the PWOC International Board is sharing the vision for where we believe we are headed as a ministry through a DVD presentation posted on our web site for all to see. We are praying that this will help prepare everyone for this very interesting season we are entering. This summer, we want you to begin asking neighbors and friends on your military installation to join us for a yearlong adventure at PWOC this coming year. It is going to be an amazing adventure.

Brenda Marlin, President, PWOCI

Theme Artwork development for 2010-2011

News & Announcements

Sep 172009

A Common Thread

Bits & Pieces

Aug 062009

Submitted by Sarah Gary Andersen AFB, Titus II

Having been a classroom teacher for many years before becoming a stay at home mom, I suppose my love of learning has never really left. I have merely shifted my focus from “best practices” to “godly practices” and what is “developmentally appropriate” to what is “spiritually appropriate”. With that being said, during this season of my life, God has been tugging at me to become more of a student of PWOC history so I may share that with others. To go beyond the mechanisms of a yearly theme and delve into the big picture. As you may or may not know, the yearly theme is prayed about and fleshed out up to two years in advance. By looking back, I think I can see the common thread and where we as a worldwide body of believers are headed. While this is merely a highlight of the scriptures used in the past few years, I encourage you to look them up yourselves and put them together so it reads like a story. While I used several versions and translations, I found The Message was the best for simple “flow” and readability.

Starting in 2005/2006, the year PWOC Europe and PWOC USA merged, the theme was “We Are Workers Together For Christ”. How fitting our motto was used along with scripture from 1 Corinthians 3:9 and Hebrews 10:24-25. We focused our studies, prayers, and programs on working together for a common purpose. Working for what? For 2006/2007’s theme of unity. We can’t be unified if we can’t work together and we were then being called (as always) to have “Unity to Let the World Know” based on John 17:23. So we banded together to let the world know. And what a glorious message the gift of salvation is. But once we have acknowledged and accepted that, then what?

The next logical step was to then prepare. In 2007/2008, once we knew of what Christ had done for us, we then had to get ready for His coming back. Because once you believe, you are called to do. God no longer is a noun, but becomes a verb. We are to use our unique gifts in His service for His creation and to be like the wise virgins who were prepared for their bridegroom’s arrival. This is based on Matthew 25:1-13 and Ephesians 4:11-13. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to be in front of Jesus and He not know who I am.

So we have now been together, in unity, preparing to sit “At the Redeemer’s Feet.” In 2008/2009 we should have been focusing on Ruth 4:14-15 and a kinsman redeemer. Last year was a time to sit and reflect on what it means to be saved, cared for, provided for, and covered. Much like Mary, we were to “glean” from what Jesus has to say and be content for a season to simply worship and adore Him. To truly soak into every pore and cell of our created bodies exactly what price Jesus paid for us, collectively and individually.

We are again being called to action ladies. This time, with the robes of righteousness and fragrant oil upon our heads poured by God Himself, to step boldly and in confidence in a world we are in and not of. Taken from 1 Peter 2:9-10 and Psalm 45:6-9, 2009/2010’s theme continues to build upon what we have been learning the past four years. We are worthy, beautiful daughters and can only win others to Christ by fully embracing it. Each program has been put together to encourage and educate us to behave like the royalty that we are. As the last lines of the theme explanation so eloquently say “In 2009/2010, we exhort our PWOC sisters to “rise” above difficult circumstances, celebrate their identity in Christ, and “proclaim the praises of Him, who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light!’”

I challenge you ladies into an awareness that you haven’t known before. An awareness of your history with this ministry, with your relationship with Christ, and with whatever God has called you to do. Keep seeking Him as you arise for He is certainly looking lovingly at us as He extends His scepter in expectation.

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Not just any theme...

Bits & Pieces

Jul 012009

Submitted by Cherie Miller, Spiritual Life VP, Landstuhl Germany

Is there anyone other than me that the Lord has been showing what this year’s theme is all about? Since I got back from ATC (Annual Training Conference) in the Spring, the Lord, in his awesomeness, has been showing me that He is Extending His Scepter to me personally for healing, and drawing me closer to Him in a brand new and exciting way.

Most of the time the theme is just a theme to me, sound familiar? But this year, it definitely is not just a mere theme. I could go on and on with the way this theme is becoming more and more real to me but I am wondering if I am the only one?

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2009-2010 PWOC International Theme

News & Announcements, Who are we

May 272009

Have you been to W.I.L.D. training yet? If so, you’ve already seen the new PWOC International theme for the coming year. Would you like to learn a bit more?

PWOC INTERNATIONAL YEARLY THEME
The PWOC International Yearly Theme, with its accompanying Logo and Music, provides continuity among the local PWOCs around the world. The theme can be used to inspire vision and direction for local PWOC board planning.

The new theme is introduced to local leaders in May of each year. The Board then begins using the theme at the Fall Kickoff meeting. The theme may be carried through the following summer or the local PWOC may choose not to use an international theme during the summer. (The Women’s Ministry Manual, p. 13)

Our 2009-2010 theme, “Arise, For the Lord Extends His Scepter,” is drawn from Psalm 45:6-9 and 1 Peter 2:9-10. These theme verses capture the work our Savior has done on behalf of His bride, the church, and the calling that exists on each of our lives as He works out His Kingdom purposes through us.

To learn more about the theme image (below), theme explanation or music, click here.

PWOCI 2009-2010 Theme Image

Feel free to contact Saleta Johnson, the PWOCI Theme Logistics Coordinator, at Theme@pwoc.org with questions or for more information.

PWOC International Blog