The Alcester Congregational Ladies Aide group (date and identities unknown.)

The Women’s organization of the Alcester United Church of Christ came into being on May 10, 1889, under the name of King’s Daughters, with five or six members.

Some time around 1900 the name changed to the Women’s Guild, and soon afterwards, on January 9, 1902, to Ladies Missionary Society.

There are few written records for the early years, but complete records of meetings since January 9, 1902 make interesting reading. The group had several name changes over the years, until 1952, when it became known as Women’s Fellowship. The organization has been a most active and integral part of the church’s life.

Nearly 65 years ago, the membership was divided into three circles, the whole group meeting once a month at the church, and the circles meeting monthly in the homes of members.

Circles, too, have been organized under several different names, but for the last 25 years have carried the names of Faith, Hope and Charity. There are currently two circles; Faith, which is the day circle, and Hope, which is the evening circle.

It would appear from the records that money-making projects have always been an important of circle activities. One of the first projects the original five or six members undertook, sometime in 1889, was the purchase of the first organ for the church. The organ cost $90 and must have been quite an undertaking for the small group.

During the ministry of Revered Washburn (1890-1895), the Women’s Society began the regular pledges to the church budget – at first $50 a year toward the pastor’s salary, and from time to time increased until the Society was contributing $400 annually to the church budget. But the annual pledge was only the beginning!

In addition to their regular pledges, the women of the church contributed $1,000 in 1916 for the remodeling of the church, and over the years have contributed large amounts for a church heating system (1953), and more recently, several hundred dollars for carpeting in the parsonage.

In 1961, the contribution from the Women’s Fellowship was cropped from the church budget, but it did not mean that the fellowship stopped contributing to the church. Each year several hundred dollars have been contributed to help the church meet its obligations.

To provide these funds the activities of the Women’s organization have always been many and varied.

In the earliest days, oyster suppers, chicken dinners, ice cream socials, musicals and plays provided funds for church improvements and activities. The first Bazaar was held in 1912 and continued as an annual event for 45 years.

In 1914 a cookbook was published, which provided income for many years. Serving lunches at farm sales and during the Union County 4-H Achievement Days were projects for many years.

At circle monthly meetings, members join in fellowship, devotions and study programs which include scripture, music and prayer. The meetings provide inspiration to members in their concern for the church.

Over the years there have been receptions and farewell parties, weddings and wedding anniversaries, bridal showers and baby showers, birthday parties for elderly and faithful members, to show love and concern for our own. Family night suppers and annual picnics are also important activities within the church.

In recent years there have been many activities promoted throughout the Women’s Fellowship’s two circles.

June is the month for the city wide rummage in the town. The Women’s Fellowship always serves lunch and has baked goods for sale at this time.

For many years a Valentine’s Supper has been held, but in 2002 a Winter Celebration will take place with a catered meal and special entertainment and games.

The annual soup supper, which is usually held during Lent, is open to the public.

July usually finds everyone busy preparing for a salad luncheon, which is also open to the public and quite often has a theme to go along with the luncheon.

Local shut-ins are always remembered with packages or gifts several times during the year. There are always special celebrations during fellowship hour to honor graduates from the congregation and confirmands.

Funeral service lunches are always provided for members and friends of the church that have passed away.

A quilter’s group meets weekly to sew quilts, some of which are sold and some of which are given away.

With all of its countless activities, Women’s Fellowship provides a feeling of belonging and fellowship for all of the church members.

The purpose of the Women’s Fellowship organization has always been, and always shall be, to enlist the women of the church in the fellowship of worship, education, service, and giving to enhance the mission of the UCC as it serves the cause of Christ in the community and throughout the world.