WASHINGTON, D.C. ? Two United Methodist women from Metropolitan Memorial UMC were honored as 'Valiant Women' May 6 by the District of Columbia's unit of Church Women United, reported Helen Latimer. Church Women United is an international Christian group representing Protestant, Catholic and Orthodox women. The local unit has 40 member churches 'and is growing,' Latimer said. About half are United Methodist. Mildred Randall was honored for her work in the church, community and global affairs. As a nutrition professional, she made significant contributions both in the United States and Africa. She and her husband, Darryl Randall, established the first major interracial conference center in South Africa. She cherishes their personal letter of thanks from Archbishop Desmond Tutu for helping to end South African apartheid. Margaretha Sawyer was honored for her service to the church and community. An accomplished seamstress, she produced some 3,000 Raggedy Ann and Raggedy Andy dolls sold at the church's UMW bazaar for years. She also created 150 ditty bags (filled with personal care items), given to homeless women. She designs and makes quilts for each new baby born in the congregation. Her peace banner, showing children of various cultures united for peace, was displayed on Sept. 11, 2004, at Farragut Square in downtown Washington. 
Sundeep Kumar, who attended Methodist Day at King's Dominion May 7, won some stuffed animals with his basketball shots, said his mother, Christine Kumar, administrative secretary in the conference communications office. The Kumar family took advantage of the discount tickets the conference has made available for the past few years. Over 2,000 United Methodists from conference churches were expected to attend, though not all on the same day. Tickets were good for several Saturdays.
CHRISTINE KUMAR/UMCONNECTION |
|
Login/Register to leave comment