WMUV Pilots Journey Partners Mentoring Program

How often have we complained that younger women are not getting involved in WMU? Well, WMUV has been intentional about engaging younger women. Journey Partners is a ministry focused on women partnering with women to build foundational relationships between seasoned mentors and mentees. These relationships focus on spiritual development wherein Journey Partners support, affirm and learn from one another.

This ministry was birthed because Emma Sorrells, a 23-year-old member of the WMUV Board of Directors, wrote me a letter sharing her heart about the disconnect she and other younger women sometimes experienced in our work together. Receiving that letter was enlightening. I contacted Emma and we began to share. We prayed, we dreamed, and thus, Journey Partners ministry was born. I am proud to say that Emma is my Journey Partner. We learn from one another. We pray for and with one another. Emma teaches me things, especially about technology. I hope that she can say the same about her relationship with me.

We have recruited three other mentors: Marilyn Graves, Lynchburg; Theresa Svoboda, Gloucester Point; and Pamela Vaughan, Richmond. Each of these seasoned mentors has a mentee. 

Our focus scripture is found in Hebrews 10: 24 – 25:

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

Although the Journey Partners ministry is designed to be flexible, it does include a book/bible study, a values clarification exercise, an overnight retreat at CrossRoads, and an opportunity to participate in a missions project. Watch for more details in fall 2024 for ways you or your church can implement this program!

Valerie Carter Smith
Executive Director/Treasurer, WMU of Virginia