I first went to Assembly because the Women’s Division invited one female seminary student and one seminary student’s female spouse from each UMC—related seminary. The purpose was to bring us into the UMW mission as members and advocates in local churches, districts, and conferences at a time when pastors and pastors’ wives were distancing themselves in many regions.

It was exciting to meet women from our 13 UM seminaries, exchanging stories about how life was for us. Very thoughtful to provide space and time for us to build some connections. I don’t know if this is still done, but I’ve always been grateful for this wise decision.

The number of women was overwhelming, and the international flavors of the presentations were engaging. The speakers were amazing, and I have not forgotten.

It was there that I learned about domestic violence and how the wedding ceremony seemed to be implicated in men who started beating their wives after marriage.

It was there that I realized that we could have communion every Sunday worship. If we could serve thousands of women in 15 minutes, we could surely serve our not very large congregations if we organized the distribution.

Outside, there were people protesting our gathering, and many women stopped and patiently engaged in dialogue. At that time, the dominant issue was abortion, and also whether women should be leading in churches.

These are some of my memories. I always encouraged women from my local church unit to attend, but I always seemed to have obstacles to my returning.

The first time, I was beginning my ministry. I was among the young ones. Now, I am retired and will be one of the elders. I am very excited to have a second chance to attend Indianapolis in 2026 after Louisville in 1978.

Rev. Leslie Ann Knight

• 1981 Assistant, Tacoma 1st
• 1983 Elma
• 1984 Elma Satsop
• 1988 Spokane Manito
• 1995 Bellingham Garden
• 2003 Spokane Audubon Park
• 2007 Mercer Island
• 2010 Fircrest