The inaugural meeting of the Lot 16 UCW, 1962. Evelyn Yeo , Annie Carr , Ruby Clark , Jean Miller , Mary MacLean , Mrs. Johnston , Alvira Hutchinson Back row, L-R: Pearle Monkley , Jennie Betton , Helen Lyle . Front row: Lorna Forbes , Bertha MacLaren , Joan McFadden , Clara Yeo . L-R: Jean Yeo , Opal Yeo, Ella MacLean , Doris Carr , Viola Gamble United Church Women The mission statement of the United Church Women is: "To unite all women of the congregation for the total mission of the Church and to provide a medium through which we may express our loyalty and devotion to Jesus Christ in Christian Witness , Study, Fellowship and Service." The ladies of the Lot 16 United Church followed the national lead and formed a branch of UCW in 1962. The inaugural meeting of the Lot 16 United Church Women was held at the home of Mrs. Harold (Ella) MacLean on January 11, with the following executive members elected: President: Mrs. A.K. MacGregor Vice-President: Mrs. Roger MacLean Secretary : Mrs. Winfield Gamble Treasurer: Mrs. Clayton Forbes . Rev. Ralph Johnston presided at the instal¬ lation of these officers and gave a very encour¬ aging address stating, that by working togeth¬ er in harmony and giving their best to then- Master by rededicating their lives to Him and to His Service, the women would ensure the success of the organization. Roll call at that first meeting was answered by twenty-five members. In 2002, thirteen women answered the meeting roll call, although all women of the Church are considered automatic members. Seven of the original members were still active at the 40th Anniversary Service in 2002. The UCW programs over the years have been varied and interesting. They have centered on educational topics, stud¬ ies on various countries of the world, and discussions of local and Canadian issues. Guest speakers have added to the study 162 United Church and Its People