Episcopal Church Women
Episcopal Church Women's purpose is to assist the women of the church in carrying out Christ's work of reconciliation in the world and to take their place as leaders in the life, governance and worship in the Episcopal Church.
We now have a toll free number for your convenience:
Our Toll Free Number: 1-877-NATL-ECW (1-877-628-5329)
It is answered by the Vice-President for Information who will either take care of your request or direct it to the proper person who will return your call.
Vision
Our vision for all women of the Episcopal Church is that we become a vibrant blend of all ages, coming together as a peacemaking, healing part of the Church. We aspire to be a shining and sharing the love of Christ.
Goals
- To strengthen lines of communication through the Communiqué, website and diocesan and provincial visitations.
- To establish Women of Vision and Call to Action programs in every diocese.
- To encourage familiarity with and participation in programs offered by Episcopal Church Women.
History
1871 ~ General Convention authorized the Board of Missions to organize the Women’s Auxiliary to the Board of Missions.
1874 ~ First Triennial Meeting held in New York
1919 ~ Along with the Presiding Bishop and National Council, the First National Council Executive Board of Women’s Auxiliary established.
1920 ~ National Council adopted resolution recognizing in all of its departments the Executive Board of the Women’s Auxiliary.
1958 ~ By action of the National Council, the Executive Board of the Women’s Auxiliary became the General Division of Women’s Work.
1964 ~ National Council became Executive Council. General Division of Women’s Work has liaison member with voice and vote in every department.
1967 ~ General Division of Women’s Work and Executive Council vote to suspend bylaws in order to "enter into such new structure with other departments and units as seems appropriate to discharging responsibilities and functions …"
1970 ~ Resolutions from 1969 Committee for Women meeting approved for trial use.
1973 ~ Triennial Meeting voted overwhelmingly to continue.
1976 ~ Triennial Meeting adopted Structure Document, formed Triennial Program and Planning Committee.
1979 ~ Name shortened to Triennial Committee.
1985 ~ Triennial Meeting adopted bylaws, forming Episcopal Church Women, Episcopal Church, U.S.A.
1988 ~ Regular publication of the ECW Communiqué commenced.
1994 ~ Episcopal Church Women/United Thank Offering Joint Committee Formed.
2000 ~ Triennial Today is centerfold in Convention Daily.
2001 ~ Website re-launched and expanded.
