GROUP LEADERS — Leaders at a reorganizational program of Disciples Women at Weirton’s First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) included, from left, guest speaker Mikayla Zias, Treasurer Connie Norwood, Secretary Karen Blanc, President Emeritus Carol Skerbetz, President Janet Rymer and Vice President Susan Brown. -- Contributed

WEIRTON — Thirty-two members and friends of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Weirton gathered in October to reorganize the local Disciples Women unit, rejoining a network of women in the United States and Canada committed to carrying out the mission of Jesus Christ in the world.

Disciples Women’s Ministries was established as a general ministry by the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in 1874 to create opportunities for women to focus their call and service on issues of justice, compassion, spiritual formation and renewal and leadership development.

Special guest speaker was Mikayla Zias of Weirton, a licensed professional counselor at CHANGE Inc. She spoke on the mental health benefits of belonging to a group of purposeful and like-minded individuals.

Janet Rymer, president, discussed her call to leadership and noted that the previous local Disciples Women unit had last met approximately two years earlier. The new group grew out of the congregation’s Wednesday Bible study, led by Carol Skerbetz.

“Basically,” Rymer said, “we are a bunch of women who love Jesus.” The evening’s theme was “Falling in Love With Jesus.”

Other officers are Skerbetz, president emeritus; Susan Brown, vice president; Connie Norwood, treasurer; and Karen Blanc, secretary.

Rymer announced that childhood needs are the group’s first mission focus, with participants invited to donate underwear and sweatpants for students at Weirton Elementary School. Boys’ and girls’ underwear sizes 6/8, 10/12 and 14/16 and sweatpants sizes 7, 8, 9 and 10 are needed.

The items will be collected at the next meeting at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 15 in the fellowship hall of Weirton First Christian Church, 3252 Main St. The session will be a “Charcuterie Christmas” celebration with attendees bringing appetizers to share.

Norwood presented devotions. Music was led by Judy Cross and Lynda Slowikowski and holiday crafting by Brown. Skerbetz served as fellowship hostess.

Disciples Women events are open to all women. For information, contact the church office by phone at (304) 797-7300 or by e-mail fccweirton3252@gmail.com. The Rev. Mark W. Mayer is pastor.