As we enter 2026, I find myself reflecting on the journey of 2025—my first year serving at the union level after previously leading as the women’s ministries director for the Central States Conference, one of the six conferences within the Mid-America Union. What began with responsibility for one conference quickly expanded into all six, a trust from the Lord that has been both humbling and enlightening. Ministering across such a wide spectrum of cultures, age groups, and life experiences has deepened my prayer life and strengthened my walk with my Savior.
Those who know me understand that I am a people person at heart. I strive to ensure that no one feels overlooked or unheard. Transparency remains our guiding principle, and through it, God continues to use us to touch lives along the way. Indeed, we matter.
This past year, we celebrated the trailblazers of the Mid-America Union Conference—women who paved the way for ministry leadership. We honored Sis. Evelyn Glass and Sis. Nancy Buxton for their faithful service as women’s ministries leaders. Toward the close of the year, we visited Sis. Shaeron Turner at Allon Chapel and Sis. Patsy Thurber, mother of our president Pastor Gary Thurber. These seasoned women of the union have set enduring examples of what ministry looks like when led by our Heavenly Father.
Focusing on the next generation
As I traveled throughout the union during 2025, one pressing need became clear: we must intentionally support young women in their 20s and 30s—whether single, married, working professionals, mothers or wives. These women face unique challenges, often compounded by the subtle stares or quiet judgments they encounter in both church and social settings.
To address this, we have formed a diverse focus group of young women to help plan a leadership conference. Among them are Makayla Benson of Salina, Kansas; Amber Patterson of Omaha, Nebraska; Lily Lora of Omaha, Nebraska, Damonica Adams, St. Louis, Missouri; Amber Fellers, Greely, Colorado; Alexis Williams, Kansas City; and Meghan Curtis, St. Joseph, Missouri—along with others from across the Mid-America Union. Together, we aim to equip them with tools for leadership, resilience and spiritual growth. This event, tentatively scheduled for May, will carry the theme: “Come as you are, but you can’t stay as you are.”
During our early focus-group discussions, these young women spoke with honesty and depth about what draws people to Christ—and what quietly pushes them away. Again and again, the message was clear: ministry must begin with kindness, safety and genuine relationships.
“One of the most important things is making church a safe place,” one participant shared. “Not just inside the building, but everywhere we go. You never know what someone is battling. Instead of judging what they wear or how they look, we should simply say, ‘I’m glad you’re here.’ One act of kindness can bring someone not only to church, but to God.”
Another young woman spoke about how everyday life itself can become ministry—through a word, a presence, or even a message on a car window. Others emphasized that inviting someone to church must be rooted in relationship, not just a one-time gesture. “If you invite someone, you should walk with them,” one participant said. “Be their friend first. Ministry should be consistent, not temporary.”
Technology also emerged as a powerful outreach tool. From short devotional videos to social media posts and podcasts, these young women see digital spaces not as distractions, but as modern mission fields—places where seeds of faith can still be planted.
Our mission is to prepare these women for ministry not with judgment, but with encouragement and empowerment. It is time for us to step aside, while still offering guidance and support, as they rise to lead in the work of the Lord.
Building community across the union
Our local conference women’s ministries leaders are actively shaping programs that meet the diverse needs of women and families. From single-mom retreats (where children are welcome) to annual gatherings that celebrate cultural heritage, their vision is both inclusive and inspiring. Ministries extend beyond retreats, with community outreach initiatives, Bible study groups, and prayer circles offered both in person and online, ensuring connection for every woman regardless of location.
We invite you to explore the women’s ministries page on the Mid-America Union Conference website, where you’ll find details about each conference, upcoming events, and calendars of activities. Take time to get acquainted with our dedicated women’s ministries leaders, whose passion and commitment continue to strengthen the sisterhood across our union.
Elder Donna Brown is the women’s ministries coordinator for the Mid-America Union Conference.
