OUR HISTORY

 

The earliest official mention of the women's work appeared in the report of General Council in 1914. That year, a group of women united to form 'prayer bands.' Mary Rader, along with Cora and Ella Rudy, asked other women in attendance to join them in prayer for world missions. From that simple beginning, the movement spread to similar groups in local Alliance churches across the nation, forming the basis for the missionary prayer fellowships. Recognizing the significance of these groups Alliance headquarters published the first Prayer Bulletin in 1923.

 

With the 1929 authorization of the Board of Managers many more groups were formed. By 1936 the number had grown to a total of 324. These praying women saw that there were tangible needs to be met as well. They began gathering goods and clothing to 'outfit' the missionaries.

 

Through time, it became evident of the need to standardize the women's work.  After much planning and organization, district groups were formed eventually leading to the first formed National Committee at General Council in 1961.

 

Over the years Great Commission Women have worked diligently, prayed faithfully, and given sacrificially. The lion's share of this ministry has, in the past, been directed to the work overseas. Since 1966, an annual missionary project has been selected and supported by women throughout North America. The combined total for the first eighteen years of the projects exceeded $3 million! By the mid 90s, Great Commission Women were meeting in over 1296 local groups, having given over $22 million in outfits and projects.

 

(Above text taken from 'She Did What She Could A Tapestry of Grace from Alliance Women's Ministries')