It’s Not Too Late to Register for Mission u!

Friday, July 10 to Sunday, July 12, 2026
Lazy F Camp and Retreat Center

Experiencing Emmanuel Mission u is a transformative educational program that encompasses both Bible-based curricula and events.

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Cost includes 2 nights’ lodging and 5 meals

Adults—$150;
Children (6-12) & Youth (13-17)—$50

Lazy F:-RV/Commuter rates

• $6 price reduction per night per person in RVs
  (Adults–$144, Children & Youth–$44)
  5 hook-ups behind the barn with water and electricity
  5 hook-ups in the parking lot, just electricity. No dump available on site.
• Commuter rate is $79 for the event.

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Purchase the Adult Curriculum Book:

Study books are available through Amazon. 

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/DEEP-KNOWING-Experiencing-Emmanuel-Through-ebook/dp/B0GBZ1BW5H

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Mission u 2026 Leadership Team

Dean—Deb Avery 

I am blessed to be serving as Dean as we journey together to “Experiencing Emmanuel” at Mission u 2026. Over the past 40 years, I have been filled with transformational opportunities through my attendance at Mission u, yet I am still filled with excitement to be in this role for Mission u 2026! Some highlights for me have been very special, like bringing 2 of my grandchildren to Mission u over the years and bringing other youth from my home church, Vancouver Heights UMC! It provides a unique opportunity for intergenerational transformation. I appreciate working with an awesome team, and I pray that all attending will be transformed as we “Experience Emmanuel.”

Assistant Dean—Pastor April Hall 

I am deeply passionate about ministry and serving others. Ten years ago, God called me into pastoral ministry, and since then, I have faithfully followed wherever I have been led. My faith journey has taught me the importance of sharing my personal walk with Christ, because our testimonies help others see how God moves and works in our lives—not only as Spirit, but also as the Savior of our souls. I believe that my openness allows others to see the reality of God’s grace, guidance, and transformation. My desire is to share the Gospel in a way that reflects Christ’s love, reaching people where they are and encouraging them to see the hope and salvation found in Him.

Worship Sessions—Gail Simpson 

This is my 3rd year on the Conference UWF team as Membership, Nurture and Outreach Coordinator. I have attended several Mission u events in recent years. I have agreed to coordinate the plenary worship sessions for Mission u.

My passion is to help the less fortunate and find ways to make life better for ALL people. Hopefully, you, too, have a passion and are pursuing ways to bring Christ to life in others. I’m glad you chose to attend Mission u and would love to chat with you.

Adult Leader—Sheree G. Fitzpatrick 

I have been a member of the Methodist church since I was a child, but didn’t join the United Women in Faith (United Methodist Women) until 2003. I have served at both the local unit and district levels in various offices, including president and vice president for the unit, and Social Action, and Education and Interpretation Coordinator for the district.

I retired as an English/theatre teacher in the Vancouver School District, and continue to substitute teach history and English. I enjoy spending time writing short stories, reading, gardening, canning jam, and visiting my daughter, Felicia, who works in NYC.

Adult Leader—Kathy Johnson 

I am a seeker of a deepening relationship with the Holy One. I became a certified lay minister in 2019. At the present time, actively participating in United Women in Faith, leading faith-based book discussions, offering regional pulpit supply, facilitating soul care events, and tutoring children in reading skills are among my servant experiences. My life journey helps me appreciate a genuine sense of community filled with kindness and the Spirit within each person. the Pacific Northwest home. My life journey, through challenges and blessings alike, helps me appreciate a genuine sense of community filled with kindness and the Spirit from within each person.

Adult Leader—Teresa Rivera

I currently serve as the secretary of the Crest to Coast United Women in Faith district. At Salmon Creek United Methodist Church, I enjoy participating in our music program in the handbell and vocal choirs. We relocated to Washington from Utah, where I spent many years involved in United Women in Faith and my church in Sandy, Utah.

I love gardening, sewing, and dabbling in oil painting. I look forward to serving where I can make a difference!

Adult Leader—Jim Simpson 

I am a retired United Methodist pastor. I now know that sharing the good news of Jesus means living by and sharing the standards that Jesus teaches. I still preach on occasion, but my message is now about living the love and justice of God in order to make the world I live in a better place for everyone.

At Mason UMC, we are redesigning the way we do ministry. Instead of asking others to join us to make our church grow, we are learning how to give ourselves to the least in love to help our community reflect Jesus, his message, and his love. We are in the midst of making our block into a community that includes housing for the least and the outcast, a place for worship, a place to feed the hungry, and some space for children.

Youth Co-Leader—Becky Absher 

I was raised in West Virginia and moved to southwestern Virginia, where I worked as a science teacher. I love teaching and learning. I find that when I am teaching, I end up learning. Often, students teach me beyond the superficial subject. They teach me how to be a good human, how to love and walk beside my neighbor, and to give grace freely every day. My life partner and soulmate is April Hall. We are proud parents of two daughters who are both pursuing college degrees. Victoria, and we have three cats, Zoey, Sasha, and Louie, and a big white ‘baciagaloop’ labradoodle, called Hoss, who keeps us on our toes.

Youth Co-Leader—Malina Mallari

Hi everyone! My name is Melina, and I am a new Washingtonian, living with my wife and dog in Battle Ground. We joined Battle Ground Community United Methodist Church a little over a year ago and have fallen in love with the community and the work it does to serve! I stepped back into my faith only a few years ago, so I am excited for the opportunity to bond with new people and grow alongside the youth I’ll be working with.

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

May 15–17, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana

Keep up to date on the Assembly 2026 website.

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

April 13, 2026: Registration closes

What’s Assembly 2026 all about?

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.