Sept. 9–11 marked the 25th anniversary of the Idaho Christian Women's Retreat, a lay-led ministry held every year at Camp Ida Haven in McCall, Idaho. The Idaho CWR, as it's commonly referred to, was one of the first of its kind in the North Pacific Union Conference and has enjoyed many highly inspirational Adventist speakers such as, Ginny Allen, JoAnn Davidson and Ardis Stenbakken. Much energy and passion is needed, as well as many dedicated volunteers, to make an event like this happen but one person, Mary Ellsworth, has been a steady influence since 1987. Ellsworth received an award and gifts for her dedicated service and strong leadership. She says she wants to "just enjoy" retreats from now on, but will volunteer her wisdom when needed. The leadership of this retreat will be assumed by the Idaho Conference women's ministries department.
Mary Ellsworth, who has worked with Idaho Christian Women's Retreat since 1987, retired from leadership this year. (John Coneff)
