Church Women Open Doors of Opportunity

More than 50 local women were encouraged to help improve the lives of people in need by opening the doors of opportunity, be it locally or globally. This was the theme of Church Women United’s World Community Day 2013 held Nov. 1 at First Lutheran Church in Southington.

The Rev. Victoria Triano, pastoral care leader at Southington Care Center and pastor of Christ Community Church in East Haddam, encouraged and inspired guests with her talk about her own experiences in stepping out in faith. “The Lord leads us in certain situations; God does not put limits on us. I encourage you to be open to what God has for you. Just take the next step,” Triano said. You never know where God will lead you when you have an open heart. You can affect a miracle.”

The guests represented many of the Christian churches in Southington. Nancy Kannenberg, president of Church Women United of Southington and member of Plantsville Congregational Church, led the event and presented several awards. Honorees included Diane Hodgkins, of Holy Trinity Polish National Church, and Marjorie Jerin, who was president of CWU for seven years.

Hodgkins, was honored at this gathering because she was unable to attend the CWU May Fellowship Day when other Christian women representing local churches were celebrated for their commitment to their faith and faith communities. Hodgkins, who was nominated by Ladies Guild President Helen Locks, planned and directed the Christmas play, taught youth for 12 years, served on the Parish Board, has been active in the Ladies Club and was a delegate to the Eastern Diocese Ladies Convention, among other activities. “She’s also an excellent pierogi pincher,” someone commented.

Jerin, a retired teacher, has held many roles at First Lutheran Church including superintendent of Vacation Bible School and been dedicated for years to CWU, a life of service for which she received the Valiant Woman Award. “It’s been a blessing to serve,” she said.