Two hundred thirty women gathered July 16-18 at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, Mequon, Wis., for the second National WELS Women's Leadership Conference. The conference included worship, general sessions, and breakout sessions focused on the theme "Leading with a Christ-like attitude."

"I really appreciated the continued reminder that it all starts with the Word," says Mary Meissner, a member at St. John, Wauwatosa, Wis.

One of those reminders came from Rev. Richard Gurgel, a professor at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, who presented a general session on Saturday that focused on the importance of personal Bible study. He emphasized to attendees that those who lead and encourage need to seek God's face in personal study of his Word.

Kathie Wendland, a member at St. Peter, Mishicot, Wis., presented the keynote address, which was based on Philippians. Wendland explained that a Christ-like attitude begins by understanding the theology of the cross. She then discussed how to live and lead with a Christ-like attitude.

Besides emphasizing the importance of being in God's Word, the conference also equipped women to organize women's ministries within their congregations and to confidently share the message of salvation with those around them.

To learn more about the conference and its sponsoring organization, the WELS Women's Ministry Committee, visit www.wels.net/women.