Source: Prairie Legacy: Stories of Women in Nebraska United Methodist Churches (May 2001) The following was written by Helen. Helen T. Traudt As I prepare to write this page a “look-back” at my life reveals that becoming orphaned at the age of six had a tremendous impact on my living; especially as it relates to a passion for ministry to women and children. At that time the love and caring of a pastor and the first visit of a missionary began my faith journey. Involvement with children’s activities in family, school and in church challenged me to live the learned teaching. I taught Sunday school and was the Church School Superintendent for a period of time. Choir Mother, Youth Sponsor, and Scout Leader added much to the learnings. And moving twenty-two times during my married life required many adjustments and dependency upon the c hutch and schools for a support system. Key to the service and effectiveness in the mission and ministry of the United Methodist Church is integrity. In this service there have been many opportunities and privileges and also responsibility. Although actively involved in each of the churches where we lived, it was United Methodist Women and its predecessor organizations which was always there welcoming me and my family. It was especially true of Trinity United Methodist Church where a dear friend was my mentor and encouraged m in taking leadership roles. I served in many capacities: Local Unit: many offices, treasurer and president. District service included treasurer and vice president. Conference service as treasurer, vice president and president. Twice nominated by the Nebraska Conference for nominee to the Women’s Division. Traveling across the state of Nebraska as I attended meetings and filled pulpits I learned our greatest accomplishments are through the local women who do so much to enhance the lives of women and children, not only in Nebraska but around the world. Service to the Nebraska Annual Conference included delegate to Jurisdictional Conference; alternate delegate to General Conference, Nominating Committee, Budget and Personnel; Ethnic Local Church; Board of Global Ministries; Board of Mission Outreach; and the Council on Ministries. Also the Lincoln District Strategy Committee; District Superintendency Committee and others. Having served as local president and state president of Church Women United, an ecumenical movement, I am now a member of the National Board of Directors of Church Women United USA. The emphasis continues to be ministry to women and children and striving to “Strengthen Families World-wide in the 21st Century.” Although as a youngster I had dreamed of being a missionary, being a member of the staff of Trinity United Methodist Church for fourteen years, serving the United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women, Church Women United, Woman’s Wesleyan Educational Council, Woman’s Board of Bryan Hospital and Women’s Institute for Theology has provided many opportunities to be in ministry. One can be in mission/ministry wherever one may be. If there has been any influence through my leadership, I hope it is this: Believing in the teachings of Jesus Christ and working for the dignity of women and the inclusion of all persons. We never grow old – we become old by ceasing to grow. We are part of God’s unfinished business and we are not limited to what we are today. Each is unique – and has a gift to give as we build a better world together. 2014 Comment by Rena: Another amazing member of United Methodist Women who have gone ahead to Heaven this year.
Posted on: Sat, 29 Mar 2014 03:16:53 +0000
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