The Disciples Women of Central Christian Church gathered Tuesday morning to hear Rev. Dr. Charlotte Nabors tell the story of the Biblical character, Abigail, and how she was a woman of purpose, acting with discretion and reason when grave danger loomed over her household.

This year’s study guide for Disciples Women is “Called for God’s Purpose.”  Charlotte, like Abigail, was also called for God’s purpose. She was associate pastor of Central Christian Church from 1983 to 1991. While at Central she earned her doctorate at Brite Divinity School in Ft. Worth. After her service at Central she became Co-Pastor with her husband Oran at First Christian Church of Denton.

When Charlotte was called to serve Central back in the early 80’s, there were very few ordained women serving churches as pastors or associate pastors.  Charlotte reminded the woman that the picture has changed dramatically since those days and she attributes Central as a forerunner in that change. 

“Central took a bold step at that time, and it took some members a while to adjust,” Charlotte said.  “Some may never,” she quipped.

The women of Central Christian Church were pioneers of that movement and can take pride in their role.

Following the program and a short business meeting, the women enjoyed a delicious lunch of salad, pumpkin soup, miniature corny dogs and individual pecan pies (recipe follows). Carol Archer, Jayne Hawley and Holly Puig hosted the luncheon and did a stellar job of decorating Fellowship Hall with fantasy pumpkins and leaves and preparing the fall-themed meal.

In honor of the State Fair of Texas a display table was set up featuring Big Tex, Cotton Candy and blue-ribbon entries won by Central member MaryAnn Duckworth at fair days gone by.

An enormous collection of warm winter clothing and food staples were donated by the women for delivery  to Austin Street Center and North Dallas Shared Ministries.

Next month’s meeting will be another homecoming! Former Senior Pastor Rev. Dr. Debbie Chisolm will be the guest speaker, and a catered Mexican fiesta on the front lawn by the sprawling Bois D’ Arc will celebrate her visit.

If you would like to visit the Disciples Women’s Ministry, call the church office at 214-526-7291 or email shelia0806@sbcglobal.net.  You don’t have to be a member of Central, or any church, to enjoy our meetings and luncheon and to be a part of the vital ministry and community outreach of the Disciples Women. We would love to have you.

Mini Pecan Pies

Courtesy of Ree Drummond (Pioneer Woman)

1 cup granulated sugar

½ cup corn syrup

½ cup maple syrup

1/3 cup salted butter, melted

3 Tablespoons brown sugar

2 Tablespoons whiskey

¾ teaspoon vanilla

½ teaspoon kosher salt

3 large eggs, beaten

1 heaping cup chopped pecans plus 14 halves for garnish

14 prepared mini pie shells in disposable pans*

*found at Walmart

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Mix together the granulated sugar, corn syrup, maple syrup, butter, brown sugar, whiskey, vanilla, salt and eggs in a bowl.

Divide the chopped pecans among the pie shells.  Pour the syrup mixture over the top and put a pecan half on top of each.

Bake until just set, 20 to 25 minutes.  Let cool.