Women of all ages from around Upper Columbia Conference received blessings as they converged on Camp Mivoden—first for the young women's retreat, and then the women's retreat. Both weekends were an opportunity to come together and celebrate the beauty of God's love and the value God places on each individual.
The young women, ages 13–17, spent their weekend as princesses with the constant reminder that each is a daughter of the King of Kings. The entire weekend was based on the princess theme and featured such activities as Banquet Table, Audience with the King, and Princess Chamber. Jesus was highlighted as the soon-returning Prince with John 14:2, 3 the focus verse.
Speaker Lisa Marie Buster connected in a special way with the group of attendees. Her talks reminded the young women that God is loving and forgiving, and that each person has a unique spot in the heart of the Creator. It was a weekend that left the young women looking forward to the next retreat.
Three weeks later, women, 18 and older, came to Camp Mivoden for a weekend of fun, fellowship and spiritual renewal. The topics for the retreat were grace, mercy and faith. There was also a women's health presentation given by Tawnywa Constantino, a physician, that opened or reopened many eyes to the health and lifestyle issues that face American women today. Carol Krum, Linda Spady and Cheri Corder contributed as guest presenters, and Natasha Nesteurk was the guest musician. The East Central Praise Team lent their voices to lead the inspirational song service.
It was a full weekend, one that left the women with the consensus that this year was indeed the best retreat yet. In addition to meetings, attendees were given opportunities to spend time with the Lord. Some chose to spend the time alone in the natural beauty of the lakeside surroundings, while others spent this time sharing and participating in morning prayer as a small group.
Women's ministry coordinator Mable Dunbar had this to say about the two retreats. "It was evident that the Holy Spirit is working with our women, both young and old, to empower them to live victorious lives through Christ. Our presenter for the teen retreat, Lisa Marie Buster, got to the hearts of the young women, and many rededicated their lives to God. Our three speakers for the women’s retreat did not collaborate, but gave the same message about the power of God to heal broken lives and transform sin-sick souls for His kingdom.
What an awesome time to be a Christian woman. We praise God for helping us realize that our value comes from Him. Therefore, in His strength we are empowered. We are looking forward to next year’s retreat."
For information on either retreat for next year, contact the Upper Columbia Conference women's ministries department.
Lisa Marie Buster from Roseburg, Ore., was the speaker for the young women's retreat.
Mable Dunbar directed a choir of seminar attendees, which provided some of the music and added a delightful part to the women's ministry weekend.
