Idaho Women's Retreat Provides Training to Reach the Community

Eighty-two ladies attended the 2024 Women’s Retreat at Camp Ida-Haven with Janet Salazar, author and guest speaker. 

Salazar, a self-described "recovering Pharisee," shared more on her journey of becoming more like Jesus, sharing love and grace to all. She spoke on the theme "You Are Chosen" at the 2023 retreat, and the women's ministries committee thought a good sequel theme for 2024 would be "Why Not ... Love?"

Bright, cheery sunflowers greeted the ladies as they entered the main lodge to check in. Most of the women arrived in time for a delicious dinner, followed by the evening meeting. Danette Tester, worship leader, and her team led in songs with a theme of love. Books and other items were given away at each meeting.

Salazar shared many scriptures showing how Jesus loved people when He was on earth. Being obedient to God’s law is important. Without love, people aren’t drawn to Jesus. Our purpose is to draw all of God’s children to Him.

The weather was beautiful — except for the smoky skies from the numerous wildfires in the area. Ladies enjoyed pontoon boat rides on Payette Lake. Some took out canoes and paddleboards; others attended a breakout session by Marlys Hall, Sun Valley Church prayer ministry leader, on "Joining God in Taking Care of You." This was the second year that Hall offered the breakout sessions. Some took part in painting rocks to leave in places to encourage others.

Elizabeth Thomsen, Impact Hope executive director, shared about the work the ministry is doing in Africa, especially with young women in refugee camps. More than $700 was given in an offering for Impact Hope and many ladies signed up to be monthly donors by sponsoring a youth.

Women’s Retreat isn’t just about getting away and eating good food, it’s about providing ministry opportunities and equipping women for ministry to other women. Not everyone who attended was an Adventist. Destiny, a second-time attendee, is friends with ladies from Pocatello Church. She commented on the food, “Last year, I felt so good after eating here.” She was inspired to add some meatless items to her menus.

The next Women’s Retreat will be on Sept. 5–7, 2025 and will feature Nitza Salazar, Idaho Conference children's ministries coordinator, as the guest speaker. Scholarship funds are available on a limited basis by contacting Jody Burton, Idaho Conference women’s ministries coordinator.