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Thinking Outside the Circle

by Susan Jackson Dowd with Janice Catron

Let me start by saying I don’t think there is anything at all wrong with circles. The circle is a perfect image for describing the way Presbyterian Women relates at all levels of the organization. Connectionalism is one of PW’s guiding principles. The PW Manual says, “Within the scope of the mission and structure of the PC(USA), PW uses circles as its basic design for bringing women together. Through these circles, PW is organized and connected to other women’s constituencies, the governing bodies of the denomination and ecumenical groups” (1–4).The Manual goes on to say that circles undergird the purpose of PW by providing an inclusive, caring community of women. “Circles, the heart of the PW organization, are encouraged to use PW resources to strengthen their connections to one another and to God. Circles meet for Bible study, mission and issue studies, sewing for mission needs, developing prayer life, participating in service projects and exploring particular responsibilities” (9–1).

Thinking outside the circle means evaluating what we do as Presbyterian Women and when appropriate, breaking out of traditional ways of being about the business of PW. Just because something is traditional does not mean that it is innately restrictive or bad. Sometimes the traditional way is the best way—it’s tried and true and whatever it is, it works.
So what’s the problem? The problem is we get stuck. It’s human nature to get stuck. The good news is the PW Manual has an answer for almost everything. PW values flexibility— “Flexibility is encouraged so that groups may determine the structure and programs most appropriate and workable in their church or area. Renewal through evaluation and goal setting will occur annually in order to adapt to changing needs” (1–3).

Susan Jackson Dowd is communication coordinator for Presbyterian Women. Janice Catron is PW communications and public relations associate.

How do Presbyterian Women groups across the country think outside the circle? Listen to the suggestions of how to diversify and enliven your circles. Read the full text of this article in the September/October 2004 issue of Horizons. Call 800/524-2612
or click here to
or click here to the September/October 2004 issue (HZN-04-240; $4 plus shipping) now.

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