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Phone: (407) 699-5683 Fax: (407) 699-8408
Email: ststephen@st-stephen.com

 

WOMEN OF WISDOM SHARING (W.O.W.S.)

About Us

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The ministry of Women of Wisdom Sharing is primarily for women over fifty who are searching for spiritual growth as they make their journey into the second half of their lives.

Through the supportive and nurturing environment of small group experiences, they will explore some of the issues many women deal wth during this time in their lives.

Facing the loss of a spouse or long-time friend, the matters of changing bodies, moving from larger homesites to smaller ones, retirement, the sense of no longer being useful; women over fifty find more similarities than differences in their lives and often the friendships that form during the group sessions provide shelter from feelings of isolation, and tend to strengthen our spiritual outlook.

 

 

Celebrate the Older You Program

The Program Objectives are to:

  • Bring women together to form a network of mutual support.
  • provide a group experience in learning, sharing, and praying.
  • Create an intellectual and social outlet for older women.
  • Introduce opportunities for personal and spiritual growth.
  • Open up the possibilities that exist for being involved in the larger church community.

The Eight Weekly Themes of the program include:

  • Recognizing your Self- Image: Where am I with my self-acceptance?
  • Developing Self- Esteem: What Choices influence my self- esteem?
  • Everyday Spirituality: How do I connect with self, others and God?
  • Changes in Relationships: How do I adjust my thinking and behaving with my grown children, retired spouse, aging parents?
  • Personal Growth: At this stage in my life, do I feel free to be me?
  • Soul Nurturing: When do I take time for myself? What specific things do I do for myself?
  • Celebration: How do I celebrate belonging to this Christian community?
  • The Ideal Woman: What defines an ideal woman?

History:

M.O.M.S (The Ministry of Mothers Sharing) was created in the Fall of 1986 by Paula Hagen, OSB and a group of mothers at St. Timothy's Parish in Mesa, Arizona. It was designed to encourage prayer, discussion and friendships between mothers of all ages. In the Diocese of Orlando, the first training of facilitators took place in February 1993. Started at St. Stephen's, W.O.W.S is a successful extension of the M.O.M.S program

FAQ

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What is W.O.W.S.?

W.O.W.S. is a parish-sponsored ministry for mature women. The purpose of W.O.W.S. is to create in women a new awareness of their inner sacred selves, while at the same time teaching them new ways to inspire, encourage, and affirm each other. A group is formed and meets once a week for eight weeks. The book that will be used on this journey is entitled Celebrate the Older You by Jo Schiehofer.

Who Is Invited to Participate in W.O.W.S.?

Women who are searching for answers and meaning in their lives as they approach their later years. Women who find these transition years to be challenging, rewarding, fulfilling, frustrating, and exciting.

When and Where Will the Sessions Be Held?

The W.O.W.S. group will meet on Thursday mornings beginning April 1, 2010. The meetings will run from 9:00 am to 11:00 am in Room 107. All participants will be invited to attend a special Prayer Service. Tentative date is March 26, 2010 at 6:30 pm.
Opening Prayer Service will be Wednesday, March 24th, 6:30 pm in the Conference Center. Session begins Thursday, April 1st – May 20th.

What Am I Asked to Bring to W.O.W.S.?

We ask that each participant make a sincere commitment to attend each of the initial eight sessions every week. If you know in advance you are unable to make this commitment, we ask that you wait for a later session. The W.O.W.S. group is offered every spring and fall at St. Stephen. As you will see, the ability to support other women in their personal growth, a desire to grow by sharing and the ability to keep confidentiality are the keys to the success of each participant's journey through W.O.W.S..

What Is the Cost for the Sessions?

The cost for all eight sessions is $30.00 The price includes all of the material necessary for the sessions and a special celebrration dinner. The W.O.W.S. group is limited to the first 8 registered participants.

How Do I Register?

Complete the W.O.W.S. Registration form and return it with a check for $30.00 to either the church office or the sign-up table after Mass. You will receive a telephone call from a W.O.W.S. Coordinator confirming your registration.

Who Can I Call for More Information?

If you have any questions, please call or email:

Emily Chandler 407-365-4373 echandler1935@gmail.com
Rita Finn 321-305-3505 glorytohim316@yahoo.com