Julia Ketner’s journey of faith is deeply intertwined with her commitment to the mission of WMU. Through years of involvement and support of the WMU Foundation, Julia has experienced firsthand how God faithfully provides when He calls us to give. “When God leads you to make a financial commitment—even when you didn’t think you could—He has always been faithful to provide,” Julia shares.
Her commitment to WMU goes beyond just giving; it’s about living on mission every day. Julia believes strongly in the mission of WMU and finds that being involved allows her to have a meaningful role in reaching the world for Christ.
One of the most significant influences on Julia’s faith was her mother, who served as the WMU director at their small rural church. As a child, it was GA leaders in her church in rural Florida, New Zion Baptist Church, that opened her eyes to a larger world than what she knew, that needed to hear about Jesus. That was the beginning of learning that she had a responsibility to be on mission. Another key mentor was Ruth Bagwell, former Florida Acteens Director, who inspired Julia during her summers at GA/Acteens Camps at Lake Yale. These mentors showed her the importance of living on mission and shaped her dedication to the Great Commission.
Julia draws inspiration from the legacies of Lottie Moon and Annie Armstrong—women who gave everything to answer God’s call. “Their stories encourage me to keep on keeping on until all have heard the Gospel,” Julia reflects. Their example motivates her to continue giving, praying, and being actively involved in God’s mission.
For Julia, living on mission means daily being available to God’s leading—praying, giving, serving, and leading as He directs. She has seen firsthand how living on mission can make a difference, especially within her own church community. Despite being mostly made up of retirees, her church has seen increased involvement in missions and a deeper commitment to praying and giving.
Looking at the world today, Julia believes it is more important than ever to support WMU through the WMU Foundation. “The needs continue to increase, and WMU offers great opportunities to meet those needs. We just need to provide the financial support necessary to get the job done,” she says.
As we reflect on Julia’s story, we see how living on mission shapes both the individual and the community. Supporting the WMU Foundation not only impacts those who give but also equips disciples to live on mission for Jesus.
Your support of the WMU Foundation ensures that the mission continues—equipping disciples to live on mission for Jesus. Join us in making a lasting impact—give to the WMU Foundation today and help carry on the legacy of sharing the Gospel to the ends of the earth.