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.
Assembly 2026 is that moment—a once-every-four-year gathering of women committed to faith, empowerment, and making a difference. Picture a weekend that uplifts your soul, strengthens your faith, and brings you together with an unstoppable sisterhood.
Assembly 2026 Registration and Scholarships
Nov. 30, 2025: Early Registration closes April 13, 2026: Registration closes
It’s a celebration of who we are and what we can achieve together. Assembly is our chance to unite, recharge, and deepen our faith.
What you can expect:
Inspiring Speakers: Hear from women leaders who will spark your passion and energize your purpose.
Powerful Worship: Experience moments of reflection, renewal, and connection in faith.
Workshops: Gain tools to create meaningful change in your life and community.
Sisterhood: Connect with women from around the world who share your commitment to justice and spiritual growth.
Save The Date!
Assembly is your chance to step away from the noise of daily life and dive into a weekend of learning, connecting, and recharging. Open your heart to renewal and inspiration!
As you get ready, reflect on these thoughtful prompts:
What are you most excited to experience at Assembly?
What lessons or experiences will you take back to your community?
How can we help strengthen your journey of faith?
Be Part of the Experience
This only happens once every four years. Don’t miss your chance to grow in faith, find inspiration, and take action!
Let’s come together to celebrate faith, empowerment, and sisterhood like never before. Will you join us?
Be ready to reserve your spot for Assembly 2026 and be part of something truly transformative!
Preliminary Schedule Thursday, May 14, 2026 10 a.m. Ubuntu Day of Service (optional, additional fee) 10 a.m. Soul Care Event (optional, additional fee)
Friday and Saturday, May 15-16, 2026 8:45 a.m. Community Gathering 10:45 a.m.-3:45 p.m. Workshops, Townhall Meetings, and Experience Hall 4:30 p.m. Community Gathering 6:30 p.m. Networking Dinners (Friday only, optional, additional fee) 7:00 p.m. Legacy Banquet (Saturday only, optional, additional fee)
Sunday, May 17, 2026 9 a.m. Community Gathering Assembly ends at noon
Hotel Information The following hotels have reserved room blocks for Assembly:
(Rates do not include state and local taxes, which are added to each room rate.)
Hotel Name
Room Rate per night
Courtyard by Marriott Downtown*+
$179
Crowne Plaza Downtown Union Station*+
$189
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Downtown*+
$169
Indianapolis Marriott Downtown+
$194
JW Marriott+
$199
Sheraton City Centre*
$179
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Downtown*+
$179
Westin Indianapolis+
$191
* Shuttle service will be provided between the hotel and the convention center. + Enclosed walkway available to the convention center.
Room Blocks United Women in Faith is working with Visit Indy, our official housing provider, to handle conference sub-blocks. We are asking all conference presidents or Assembly liaisons to contact Visit Indy to book their conference sub-block by June 30. You may submit a Room Block Request by filling out the Room Block Request form. Click Here to Download: Room Block request form and e-mailing, scanning, or faxing that back to the Visit Indy Housing Bureau, housing@visitindy.com, or fax 317-262-8270. To help you plan, Visit Indy will have information on the number of conference attendees you had at the last Assembly.
Visit Indy will provide conference presidents and/or Assembly liaisons with a Room Block Confirmation with instructions to submit your group’s reservations starting Sept. 2.
Individual attendees who would like to process their own reservations outside of a room block may contact Visit Indy customer care agents at 317-262-8191 Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, and make reservations starting Sept. 2.
