Joy in the Journey Lives Changed at Sunriver

"Joy in the Journey," this year's Christian Women's Retreat began with an unusual announcement by Corleen Johnson, women's ministries director: "Tami Horst, our speaker, has been delayed. We just know God will bless in spite of this. Was it just a coincidence that three committee members packed sermons just in case?”

Diane Pestes set the tone for the weekend by sharing “God Moments” from the Bible and her life. Then came a praise and testimony time. Women poured to the front to share what God has done in their lives. By the time the speaker arrived on Sabbath, joyous hearts were made more joyful as Tami was mightily used by the Lord to touch lives and hearts.

Unique to this year’s retreat was a 45-foot-long prayer scroll where ladies wrote names of those they want to see in heaven. Sunday morning it was stretched across the front of the auditorium for prayer. Then the retreat committee presented Corleen with a recognition award for 10 years of service to women’s ministries. The ladies surprised her with a standing ovation.

The retreat committee has never heard so many ladies say their lives were changed. One lady wrote, “We brought two guests with us. They were touched by the Spirit’s power and are preparing for baptism. Hallelujah!”

Featured in: January 2005

Author

Diane Pestes

Oregon Conference women's ministries administrative assistant