Why I Go to Women's Group?

By Rosalynd “Rose” Darling

At first, when I was asked to write something about the Women’s Group here at BPC, my mind raced with all the great reading we have done and the wonderful women who have discussed the readings. I wanted to touch on Meagan Manus’s tireless scholarship on women in the church and feminist theologians. I thought about every time I have read something that truly moved me in one way while reading it, and then found deeper meanings while discussing it. But is that really what the Women’s Group is about? If I were truthful with myself, I would have to say “no”. This is not the core reason that I attend every other Thursday night.

My life is pretty hectic, and from our talks, I know most of the women could say that. We live in New York City, after all. Many of us hold down more than one job. Some are performers and don’t know where or when the next contract will come. Some are raising children, trying to work only when the kids are in school or at various activities. But we all come to Women’s Group to recharge ourselves physically, emotionally, and spiritually for the weeks ahead and gain support from those around us. The wonderful female Biblical scholars Meagan introduces to us can help. Mostly, though, we help each other.

The most meaningful thing we have done so far in Women’s Group is deal with loss. Meagan strives to create rituals that will help us with this, including a really cool embodied prayer. Ask anyone who attends Women’s Group and you will find them coping with significant loss and change in their personal lives. We also acknowledged the losses we feel from the church suddenly changing, Walt and Christa leaving so suddenly, in a way that I did not get from the main services on Sunday. Sometimes all I can see ahead of me is more change and my inability to cope with it. Women’s Group gives me tools and support on this road ahead. For that, I am so grateful.

I urge others who have not given Women’s Group a try to come some Thursday night at 6:15. You will not only get a nice, free meal, but a time with others who are ready to listen and assist if needed. Women’s Group provides a boost to my sagging self esteem and is a place where we can honestly discuss our joy and frustration at the world, the church, and our personal lives. I know I will be back. Hope to see you there!