More than 300 women attended the Oregon Women's Retreat was Oct. 16–18, 2009.
The main speaker this year was Gail McKenzie, Women's Ministries director from the Kentucky-Tennessee Conference. "She's a charismatic speaker, real, warm and personable," comments one attendee. "She has such spiritual depth ... " McKenzie's current pursuit of a master's degree in Biblical studies enabled her to share rich insights into God's word in keeping with the theme "How Great is Our God."
The offering goal was $1,500 to empower the Florence Women’s Ministries team to host a mini-mission in Florence, Ore., this spring. The vision is to help impact the Florence community for Christ through a health fair, a concert featuring musicians from community churches, an evening honoring police officers and fire fighters, and a wide variety of outreach and service projects. The women responded to this vision with overwhelming support by giving nearly $2,800 — well over the goal of $1,500. The trip will be a reality April 30–May 2.
The Saturday evening inspirational concert was given by Michelle Winters from Texas. Oregon Conference Women’s ministry leaders become acquainted with Winters when, she participated as part of the Suzuki Dream Team, in the 2008 Women’s Ministries “Hope in the Park”, ministry initiative in Madras, Oregon.
Each participant was able to choose two of the following break-out topics: Delight in His Word, with Dave and Ginny Allen; Expanding Your Prayer Horizons, with Ginny Allen and Carolyn Karlstrom; Learning the Love Languages, with Cheri Corder; It’s All About Grace!” with Cheri Gatton; Eat Well on a Downsized Budget with Marcella Lynch; A Little Out of Focus, with Sue Patzer; and Compassionate Living with Rhonda Whitney.
In an effort to keep the retreat in a central location and to keep the registration fees reasonable for women, this year’s retreat was held at the Florence Events Center. The Events Center staff, gave exceptional service and included several Christians who were delighted to be hosting a Christian group.
The next Oregon Conference women's retreat will the third weekend in October 2010.
For information on participating in the mini-mission trip to Florence, contact Linda Lydick at (541) 268-4659.
Ginny Allen, retreat committee member; Michelle Winters, guest musician; and Gail McKenzie, the main speaker; enjoy some of the props.
