Nationwide United Methodist Women have annual events of mission study namely Mission u, which provides opportunity to study current issues affecting society based on recent mission study topics. The studies give particular attention to the responsibilities of women in the fulfillment of the mission work of the church.  South Carolina UMW recently convened at Spartanburg Methodist College for three days of study, worship, singing, and fellowshipping together for a common cause, Mission u. Three themes covered this year: Spiritual growth with the topic “Created for Happiness: Understanding Your Life in God.”
All registrants participated in Spiritual Growth sessions. Registrants were divided between the two remaining themes; Geographic a study of Latin America: People and Faith, Latin America is one regional missionary served by UMW missions.  Issue study on the topic: The Church and People with Disabilities: a critical issue facing many churches.
Seven of the twenty-four youth at Mission u were from St. Stephens in Dillon. The youth, divided into four groups, (six in a group) were involved in many activities to learn more about Latin America. Each group studied a South American, Caribbean Island, or Mexican country to gather information and make a flag for their place of study. The youth made some gorgeous flags, and decorated sashes, hats, and headpieces for the fiesta parade held by and for all.
The youth also participated in mission service at The Bethlehem Center (a Mission Institute that is in a covenant relationship with the United Methodist Women National Office). The Center is a multi-service agency providing an array of programs to residents in Spartanburg County. The Center’s day care facility has the capacity to serve 130 children between the ages of two and five.
United Methodist Women, youth, and some men from across South Carolina attended; Marion District UMW had members from Belin UMC, Duncan UMC, First Myrtle Beach UMC, Herbert Memorial UMC, Latta, UMC, McCoy Chapel UMC, St. Paul’s Waccamaw UMC, and St. Stephens UMC.