Disciples Women of Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin joyfully welcome all who identify as women and all who journey with us in the spirit of Christ’s love. We celebrate the rich diversity of God’s people and affirm the sacred worth of every woman—of every race, age, ability, and background, including our sisters in the LGBTQ community. In this ministry, all women are valued, affirmed, and empowered to grow, serve, and lead as God calls. Together, we seek to embody compassion, justice, and grace in all we do.
OUR PURPOSE
The purpose of Disciples Women’s Ministries is to provide leadership, guidance and a communication channel for the women of the region as they share the Good News through:
- Worship for spiritual growth and renewed discipleship;
- Bible study for greater knowledge, understanding, and service;
- Participation in mission, advocacy, and service;
- Networking and fellowship for building the faith community locally, regionally, and throughout the whole church;
- Leadership training for the service to God in Disciples Women, the church, and the community;
- Stewardship of time, talent, and resources for the mission of the church;
- Accountability and personal responsibility for the mission of Jesus the Christ through the church.
If you are Disciples and a woman, then you are a Disciples Woman!
Disciples Women Visioning Team
Rev. Dr. Beth Rupe, CCIW Disciples Women’s Coordinator
Contact Information: (309)224-0538; [email protected]
- Ginger Harris, Pontiac Christian Church (DoC) , Pontiac
- Daphne Hayes, Downers Grove Christian Church (DoC), Downers Grove
- Jacqueline Myers, Virden Christian Church (DoC), Virden
Events
June
Event Details
Disciples Women Book Club meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 6:30 – 8 PM CST by
Event Details
Disciples Women Book Club meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 6:30 – 8 PM CST by Zoom.Rev. Dr. Beth Rupe facilities the discussion and all women are welcome to participate. We read a different book each month, so if you miss a session just read the next book and join us again. Books have been selected through 2026.
The works of fiction that we read, provide us with an opportunity to hear others’ perspectives and to share their stories us we seek to better understand and relate to those with different experiences and perspectives than our own.
Contact Beth at [email protected] to be added to the email list to receive the Zoom invitation each month.
January 13
- Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward
February 10
- Weyward by Emilia Hart
March 10
- The Book of Unknown Americans by Cristina Henriquez
April 14
- I’ll give you the Sun by Jandy Nelson
May 12
- The Forgotten Room by Karen White
June 6
- The Arsonist by Sue Miller
July 14
- Memphis by Tara M. Stringfellow
August 11
- White Chrysanthemum by Mary Lynn Bracht
September 8
- Elinor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
October 13
- Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo
November 10
- The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennet
December 8
- The Woman is No Man by Etaf Rum
Time
June 9, 2026 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm(GMT-05:00)
Virtual Event Details
Event access information coming soon, Please check back again closer to event start time.
July
Event Details
Disciples Women Book Club meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 6:30 – 8 PM CST by
Event Details
Disciples Women Book Club meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 6:30 – 8 PM CST by Zoom.Rev. Dr. Beth Rupe facilities the discussion and all women are welcome to participate. We read a different book each month, so if you miss a session just read the next book and join us again. Books have been selected through 2026.
The works of fiction that we read, provide us with an opportunity to hear others’ perspectives and to share their stories us we seek to better understand and relate to those with different experiences and perspectives than our own.
Contact Beth at [email protected] to be added to the email list to receive the Zoom invitation each month.
January 13
- Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward
February 10
- Weyward by Emilia Hart
March 10
- The Book of Unknown Americans by Cristina Henriquez
April 14
- I’ll give you the Sun by Jandy Nelson
May 12
- The Forgotten Room by Karen White
June 6
- The Arsonist by Sue Miller
July 14
- Memphis by Tara M. Stringfellow
August 11
- White Chrysanthemum by Mary Lynn Bracht
September 8
- Elinor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
October 13
- Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo
November 10
- The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennet
December 8
- The Woman is No Man by Etaf Rum
Time
July 14, 2026 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm(GMT-05:00)
Virtual Event Details
Event access information coming soon, Please check back again closer to event start time.
August
Event Details
Join us for an elegant afternoon low tea as we journey through the rich history
Event Details
Join us for an elegant afternoon low tea as we journey through the rich history of this cherished tradition. Originating in 19th-century England as a pause for refreshment and reflection, low tea became a symbol of both leisure and social connection. Today, we gather not only to discuss that legacy but to reflect on the deeper call to economic justice. As we share tea and conversation, we will explore the call to work for a more equitable and compassionate world for all. An offering will be taken for a local food pantry.
RSVP Please By
July 17, 2026
Time
August 1, 2026 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm(GMT-04:00)
Location
FCC Centralia
205 S. Elm St. Centralia, IL
Other Events
Register
Event Details
Disciples Women Book Club meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 6:30 – 8 PM CST by
Event Details
Disciples Women Book Club meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 6:30 – 8 PM CST by Zoom.Rev. Dr. Beth Rupe facilities the discussion and all women are welcome to participate. We read a different book each month, so if you miss a session just read the next book and join us again. Books have been selected through 2026.
The works of fiction that we read, provide us with an opportunity to hear others’ perspectives and to share their stories us we seek to better understand and relate to those with different experiences and perspectives than our own.
Contact Beth at [email protected] to be added to the email list to receive the Zoom invitation each month.
January 13
- Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward
February 10
- Weyward by Emilia Hart
March 10
- The Book of Unknown Americans by Cristina Henriquez
April 14
- I’ll give you the Sun by Jandy Nelson
May 12
- The Forgotten Room by Karen White
June 6
- The Arsonist by Sue Miller
July 14
- Memphis by Tara M. Stringfellow
August 11
- White Chrysanthemum by Mary Lynn Bracht
September 8
- Elinor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
October 13
- Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo
November 10
- The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennet
December 8
- The Woman is No Man by Etaf Rum
Time
August 11, 2026 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm(GMT-05:00)
Virtual Event Details
Event access information coming soon, Please check back again closer to event start time.
Event Details
Discover the unique way God has created you! Formed in God’s Image: Uniquely Me is an inspiring event
Event Details
Discover the unique way God has created you! Formed in God’s Image: Uniquely Me is an inspiring event designed to help you explore your spiritual identity through the lens of the Enneagram and spiritual gifts. Join us for a journey of self-discovery, growth, and deeper understanding of how your God-given traits can enrich your life and the faith community.
We are thrilled to welcome Rev. Cassie Sexton -Riggs, Associate Regional Minister for Clergy and Lay Education, as our keynote speaker. With her wisdom and insight, Rev. Sexton Riggs will guide us in uncovering the divine design woven into each of us and help us embrace the unique ways we reflect God’s image.
Whether you’re seeking clarity in your spiritual gifts, insights into your Enneagram type, or simply a deeper connection to your God-given purpose, this event promises to equip, encourage, and inspire.
Come and celebrate the one-of-a-kind person God created—you!
Keynote Speaker: Rev. Cassie Sexton-Riggs, Associate Regional Minister for Clergy and Lay Education
Cassie is an ordained minister that serves as an Associate Regional Minister in Michigan, and Illinois & Wisconsin. Leadership, spiritual care, and community engagement are deeply rooted in her work with congregations in Illinois, Oklahoma, Texas, Virginia, and Florida. She has a Bachelor of Arts in American History with a focus on African American pop culture along with a minor in education and technical theater from Lynchburg College and a Master of Divinity from Brite Divinity School at TCU (Go Frogs!) She enjoys cooking and collecting vinyl records with her partner, Michael, and their two rescue cats, Dewey and Domino.
Things to bring
Bible, journal, pen, twin size bedding, pillow, towel, wash cloth, personal items, walking shoes, light jacket, swimsuit, flashlight, non-aerosol insect repellent.
Tote Bags – each individual is asked to bring a tote bag. Things to include in the bag:
- Card or paper with your name, address including city and zip, birthday
- Travel tissues
- Some candy
- Other items such as travel hand cream, sanitizer, bookmark, etc.
The tote bags will be exchanged on Friday night with a person randomly selected as your prayer
partner and can be used to carry needed items during the event.
Each person will receive an event booklet, pen, and notebook as part of registration.
Offering to the Blessing Box
Time
August 14, 2026 3:00 pm - August 16, 2026 10:00 am(GMT-04:00)
Location
Crystal Conference Center
2365 S Shore Dr E, Frankfort, MI 49635
Other Events
Register
September
Event Details
Disciples Women Book Club meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 6:30 – 8 PM CST by
Event Details
Disciples Women Book Club meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 6:30 – 8 PM CST by Zoom.Rev. Dr. Beth Rupe facilities the discussion and all women are welcome to participate. We read a different book each month, so if you miss a session just read the next book and join us again. Books have been selected through 2026.
The works of fiction that we read, provide us with an opportunity to hear others’ perspectives and to share their stories us we seek to better understand and relate to those with different experiences and perspectives than our own.
Contact Beth at [email protected] to be added to the email list to receive the Zoom invitation each month.
January 13
- Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward
February 10
- Weyward by Emilia Hart
March 10
- The Book of Unknown Americans by Cristina Henriquez
April 14
- I’ll give you the Sun by Jandy Nelson
May 12
- The Forgotten Room by Karen White
June 6
- The Arsonist by Sue Miller
July 14
- Memphis by Tara M. Stringfellow
August 11
- White Chrysanthemum by Mary Lynn Bracht
September 8
- Elinor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
October 13
- Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo
November 10
- The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennet
December 8
- The Woman is No Man by Etaf Rum
Time
September 8, 2026 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm(GMT-05:00)
Virtual Event Details
Event access information coming soon, Please check back again closer to event start time.
Event Details
Join us for a soul-nourishing Women’s Retreat inspired by Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the
Event Details
Join us for a soul-nourishing Women’s Retreat inspired by Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer. We will explore themes of gratitude, reciprocity, and sacred connection to the earth. Our keynote speaker, Rev. Jennie Churchman, will lead us in thoughtful sessions that intertwine spirituality and ecological wisdom, inviting us to deepen our faith and relationship with creation. The retreat will culminate in a meaningful worship and communion service on Sunday, grounding us in community and shared purpose.
This is a time for rest, renewal, and spiritual growth among women of all ages. Participants may arrive Friday evening for an additional fee of $25.00—please note that no programming or meals will be provided that night. We hope you’ll join us for this sacred weekend of learning, connection, and reflection.
Keynote Speaker: Rev. Jennie Churchman
Jennie earned her B.A. from the University of Texas at Austin (1992), her M.Div. from Brite Divinity School (1996), and completed doctoral studies in Hebrew Bible at Union Theological Seminary. Ordained in 1996, she also trained as a spiritual director at the Hesychia School, serves as an Academy Mentor, contributed to The Upper Room Disciplines 2012, and has taught at Eureka College. She has led retreats, walked two Camino pilgrimages, and enjoys hiking, reading, gardening, crafting, travel, and spending time with loved ones.
OFFERING TO – Blessing Box
Time
September 26, 2026 8:30 am - September 27, 2026 3:30 pm(GMT-04:00)
Organizer
Register
October
Event Details
Disciples Women Book Club meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 6:30 – 8 PM CST by
Event Details
Disciples Women Book Club meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 6:30 – 8 PM CST by Zoom.Rev. Dr. Beth Rupe facilities the discussion and all women are welcome to participate. We read a different book each month, so if you miss a session just read the next book and join us again. Books have been selected through 2026.
The works of fiction that we read, provide us with an opportunity to hear others’ perspectives and to share their stories us we seek to better understand and relate to those with different experiences and perspectives than our own.
Contact Beth at [email protected] to be added to the email list to receive the Zoom invitation each month.
January 13
- Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward
February 10
- Weyward by Emilia Hart
March 10
- The Book of Unknown Americans by Cristina Henriquez
April 14
- I’ll give you the Sun by Jandy Nelson
May 12
- The Forgotten Room by Karen White
June 6
- The Arsonist by Sue Miller
July 14
- Memphis by Tara M. Stringfellow
August 11
- White Chrysanthemum by Mary Lynn Bracht
September 8
- Elinor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
October 13
- Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo
November 10
- The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennet
December 8
- The Woman is No Man by Etaf Rum
Time
October 13, 2026 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm(GMT-05:00)
Virtual Event Details
Event access information coming soon, Please check back again closer to event start time.
Event Details
Preparing for the future is a gift to yourself and your loved ones. Planning for Tomorrow
Event Details
Preparing for the future is a gift to yourself and your loved ones. Planning for Tomorrow is a two-part event designed to provide practical guidance and thoughtful discussion on the important aspects of later-life planning, from wills and legacy giving to healthcare decisions.
Part One: Wills, Legacy Gifting, and Legal Matters
Join us as we walk through essential topics including creating a will, understanding legacy gifting, and addressing other legal considerations that can ensure your wishes are honored and your loved ones are protected.
Part Two: Medicare and Healthcare Planning
This session will focus on health-related planning, including living wills, Medicare enrollment, and other crucial healthcare decisions, empowering you to make informed choices for your well-being and peace of mind.
Whether you are just starting to think about the future or seeking to update your plans, this two-part conversation offers valuable information, thoughtful discussion, and practical tools to help you navigate later-life planning with confidence.
This is a space to connect, learn, and explore together — bringing our voices, questions, and experiences to the table.
You will receive a Zoom Invitation following your registration and a reminder the week of the event.
Time
October 17, 2026 10:00 am - 11:30 am(GMT-04:00)
Organizer
Register
Event Details
Join us for a special Women’s Day Retreat focused on creating Chrismons—beautiful, symbolic ornaments used
Event Details
Join us for a special Women’s Day Retreat focused on creating Chrismons—beautiful, symbolic ornaments used to decorate Christmas trees and churches during Advent. Chrismons (short for “Christ monograms”) are traditionally white and gold, representing the purity and majesty of Christ, and each design reflects a unique Christian symbol. Whether you’re crafty or just curious, this peaceful day offers a chance to reflect, connect, and create with purpose. All materials will be provided, along with a delicious lunch. Come enjoy fellowship, faith, and fun as we prepare our hearts and hands for the Christmas season through this meaningful tradition. Our time together will include worship and communion.
Time
October 24, 2026 9:00 am - 4:00 pm EST(GMT-04:00)
Location
FCC Lansing, MI
469 N Hagadorn Rd. East Lansing, MI
Other Events
Register
November
Event Details
Disciples Women Book Club meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 6:30 – 8 PM CST by
Event Details
Disciples Women Book Club meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 6:30 – 8 PM CST by Zoom.Rev. Dr. Beth Rupe facilities the discussion and all women are welcome to participate. We read a different book each month, so if you miss a session just read the next book and join us again. Books have been selected through 2026.
The works of fiction that we read, provide us with an opportunity to hear others’ perspectives and to share their stories us we seek to better understand and relate to those with different experiences and perspectives than our own.
Contact Beth at [email protected] to be added to the email list to receive the Zoom invitation each month.
January 13
- Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward
February 10
- Weyward by Emilia Hart
March 10
- The Book of Unknown Americans by Cristina Henriquez
April 14
- I’ll give you the Sun by Jandy Nelson
May 12
- The Forgotten Room by Karen White
June 6
- The Arsonist by Sue Miller
July 14
- Memphis by Tara M. Stringfellow
August 11
- White Chrysanthemum by Mary Lynn Bracht
September 8
- Elinor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
October 13
- Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo
November 10
- The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennet
December 8
- The Woman is No Man by Etaf Rum
Time
November 10, 2026 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm(GMT-06:00)
Virtual Event Details
Event access information coming soon, Please check back again closer to event start time.
December
Event Details
Disciples Women Book Club meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 6:30 – 8 PM CST by
Event Details
Disciples Women Book Club meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 6:30 – 8 PM CST by Zoom.Rev. Dr. Beth Rupe facilities the discussion and all women are welcome to participate. We read a different book each month, so if you miss a session just read the next book and join us again. Books have been selected through 2026.
The works of fiction that we read, provide us with an opportunity to hear others’ perspectives and to share their stories us we seek to better understand and relate to those with different experiences and perspectives than our own.
Contact Beth at [email protected] to be added to the email list to receive the Zoom invitation each month.
January 13
- Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward
February 10
- Weyward by Emilia Hart
March 10
- The Book of Unknown Americans by Cristina Henriquez
April 14
- I’ll give you the Sun by Jandy Nelson
May 12
- The Forgotten Room by Karen White
June 6
- The Arsonist by Sue Miller
July 14
- Memphis by Tara M. Stringfellow
August 11
- White Chrysanthemum by Mary Lynn Bracht
September 8
- Elinor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
October 13
- Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo
November 10
- The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennet
December 8
- The Woman is No Man by Etaf Rum
Time
December 8, 2026 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm(GMT-06:00)
Virtual Event Details
Event access information coming soon, Please check back again closer to event start time.