Debbie Pintsh

Co-President

I moved to Anchorage in the summer of 1995 after retiring from the Navy and decided to go "church shopping". My first visit was St. John since my sister and her family were members there. After on Sunday I knew that I was where I needed to be and have been there ever since. That fall I met Chris Spencer who has since relocated to Arizona) and got involved in United Methodist Women. "You HAVE to attend Annual Gathering at Meier Lake in September", she told me after just one meeting of our local unit. She said I had to. So I did.

And I knew then that was also where I needed to be! I've been involved in UMW/UMiF ever since.

It's hard to describe my feelings after that first Annual Gathering. I immediately felt the connectional aspects of the United Methodist Church and became aware of what our organization does, not only in Alaska and the United States, but all over the world. The emphasis on women, youth and children is "what I'm all about!"

My involvement in UWiF and especially as a member of the Conference Leadership Team is where "I've found my voice". It's helped me develop leadership and communication skills; helped me strengthen bonds between women from all levels of our organization; given me purpose and fulfillment; and been a whole lot of fun!

I encourage each of you to consider hoe you can serve and be served in our organization. I guarantee that, if the time is right and you join our ranks, so to speak, it will be a decision you won't regret.