“On the sabbath day we went outside the gate to the riverside, where we supposed there was a place of prayer; and we sat down and spoke to the women who had come together.” Acts 16:13

Women have been gathering together since the very beginning of the Church’s life for special times of prayer, fellowship and service.  Saint Paul’s has a very active chapter of the Episcopal Church Women [ECW], a national organization of women working together to serve Christ in the parish and the community.  This group follows in the steps of the gathering by the riverside, and meets monthly after the morning service for prayer and activity planning.  The ECW sponsors a variety of programs and activities throughout the year.  All women who worship regularly in the Parish are welcome to attend and take part in this group. 
Some current ECW activities include:

• Prayer Shawl and Linus Project:  ECW members have knitted shawls and sewn blankets which are blessed and distributed to hospitalized and homebound people.
• Crisis Support: ECW members coordinate support for parish families at times of loss and change by preparing meals and assisting with necessary tasks
• Charity Suppers:  ECW members plan and prepare special meals at various times of the year.  All proceeds are sent to designated local and international mission and service agencies
• Parish Life Programs:  ECW members host receptions for various parish activities, especially the bimonthly coffee hours.  These receptions provide important fellowship opportunities.