Who are the Women of the ELCA?

Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America or, WELCA for short, is a women's organization within First Lutheran that is part of a larger collective from 4500 different congregations throughout the 50 states and Caribbean. Sub-groups called "Circles", which are named after women in the Bible, meet monthly. Each of these circles has it's own flavor and they meet at different times to accommodate the schedules of as many people as possible. Circles meet for many reasons including service, study, advocacy, and fellowship. Like Scouts or 4-H, WELCA of First Lutheran is connected statewide to the Nebraska Synodical Women's Organization and Nationally to the Churchwide Women's Organization. These statewide and national organizations help provide programming that is beyond the scope of many local organizations.    

What does WELCA do? 

One of the most visible places you will see WELCA active is in providing hospitality to grieving families in the form of providing meals after funerals. They also do much to serve the world behind the scenes. Year round, they are collecting materials, organizing, packing, and shipping various "Kits" and making quilts for Lutheran World Relief (LWR). These kits and quilts are sent throughout the world by one of the most well respected relief agencies there is. You can learn more about the fantastic work of LWR here. WELCA is also involved in local efforts by supporting food banks, and other charities. In addition to service work, they organize opportunities for speakers from local non-profits to address committees and congregation members to help us know what is going on in North Platte, and to help us see where opportunities for service in the community are emerging. As they meet many circles engage in scripture study. Through Statewide and National Expressions many members attend retreats and conferences, and if their laughter is any indication, they have a good time doing all of these things.     

How can I get involved with WELCA?

Let us know what your interests and availability are with this form, and we'll be in touch. 

Board Meeting | First Wednesday @ 1pm | Church Library
Adah Circle | Third Tuesday @ 9:30am | Church Fellowship Hall
Eve Circle | Fourth Sunday @ 9:30am | Church Library
Miriam Circle | First Monday @ 7pm | Rotating Hostesses