Larry and Loreta Jent of rural Fort Scott have recently returned from the National Woman’s Christian Temperance Union’s 152nd Convention on August 18, and the World 42nd Convention August 19-23, 2025. National WCTU followed their convention by hosting the World WCTU Convention at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel and Conference Center in Chicago-North Shore, Skokie, Illinois.

National WCTU President Merry Lee Powell challenged USA members to be “Mountain Movers” as she referred to Matthew 17:20. “Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there, and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.’” Everyone was given a mustard seed on a mountain necklace as a reminder that we are capable of moving mountains and a force to be reckoned with as long as we have faith. WCTU continues to work to make known the harmful effects of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, along with other social concerns.

Fourteen countries entered the World WCTU Convention carrying their nation’s flag. More countries wanted to attend but were denied visas because of the current lack of world peace concern. The theme for the 42nd World Convention was “Fulfilling our Mission”. A special event during the convention was a trip to nearby Evanston, IL, to tour the NWCTU campus, including “Rest Cottage”, the beloved home of Frances E. Willard, a long-time president of National WCTU, founder of World WCTU, an American educator, women’s suffragist, and the first woman who’s statue was erected in Statuary Hall, Washington D.C.

The keynote speaker for World Convention was Professor of Psychobiology Bertha K. Madras of Harvard Medical School. The address included “What are the most effective ways of promoting prevention?” Strengthening families must be a priority! Resolutions, special awards, and elections closed out the week. Elected as the new World WCTU President was Dr. Sheela Lall of India.