Episcopal Church Women
Diocese of Virginia
A national organization of women within the Episcopal Church who effect the church's mission through a range of programs including prayer and outreach. In Virginia, there is a chapter in almost every church, though not all use the ECW name.
In 1872, women of the church formed the National Women's Auxiliary as a way to take part in church life. The national organization connected provincial, diocesan and parish branches, enabling women to apply their energy and imagination to church life in a range of ways and bringing our leadership skills into the church. In 1958 the Auxiliary was renamed the Episcopal Church Women (ECW) to recognize the fact that women are an integral part of the church's life.
The ECW in the Diocese of Virginia- over 100 years old- has a long, strong tradition of offering spiritual, financial and physical support for a host of parish, regional and diocesan programs.
Our motto is "Joy in Service."
How Do I Become a Member?
You already are! All women in the Episcopal Church are members. PERIOD! That's it. Your active participation in ECW programs is very much needed and strongly encouraged!
The ECW offers you the opportunity to be not only a receiver but a giver. Each and every women has something to offer, please share your talents and abilities as we joyously serve the Lord.
Just contact your Parish ECW President or the Regional ECW President for more information on meetings, missions, outreach, etc.
Affecting Communities Throughout the Diocese: Other Links
(Note: Click on each link for more information)
The ECW involves many aspects of "Outreach" on the local, Regional, Diocesan, Providential and National level. The Diocese of Virginia is one of 13 Dioceses included in Providence III, which is one of 9 Episcopal Providences in the United States. For a MAP and more information click on these links: Diocese of Virginia, Regional Information, Providence III, Providences of the Episcopal Church USA
Some of the active committees and organizations of the Diocesan ECW involvement are the United Thank Offering, Church Periodical Club, South African Ministry, Dominican Republic Partnership, Gifts and Scholarships, Prayer and Worship, and the Altar Guild. Click on each name to obtain detailed information. For more information concerning these please click & check the page entitled "Other Important Links".
There is also an ECW Speakers Bureau consisting of persons willing to come to your church or organization and speak on related subjects. To view this list visit the ECW Speakers Bureau page.
ECW Diocesan Newsletter
The ECW of the Diocese of VA has a newsletter published twice a year called The Milestone . For more information please click the link below:
The Milestone
ECW National Newsletter
Click here for the National ECW Newletter The Communique
Comments/Changes/Additions
During your visit to the ECW website, should you find outdated information, changes or additions that you feel would be helpful, please click on the following link to submit your information electronically. Please specify page location etc. We welcome you comments and /or suggestions concerning our website.
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Episcopal Church Women
