RALEIGH, North Carolina--The Raleigh and Wilson, North Carolina, women's ministries sponsored a retreat in Raleigh July 21 to 23.
The retreat, with a theme of Enjoying the Presence of God, featured author, speaker and teacher, Jan Johnson.
During the three-day event Mrs. Johnson brought four messages that emphasized the development of the spiritual life described in Psalm 139. Her messages, Finding Intimacy With God, Living in Hard Places and Empty Spaces, Drawing Energy From the Heart of Christ and Listening to God for Clues, spoke to spiritual issues confronting Christians today.
The retreat also featured Tammy Tkach and Sheila Graham as guest speakers. In her message, Taking Care of Your Clay Pots, Mrs. Tkach explained how God has given us life and expects us to take care of ourselves. She showed how the life of Jesus gives a positive example of how to stay in spiritual shape while avoiding spiritual burnout. Even Jesus took time to retreat and be refreshed spiritually.
Sheila Graham, in her message, Listening to God, explained how to deepen our relationship with God by learning to listen to him. God wants us to be his friend, she said. Have you ever thought about having a friend that never listened to you? God appreciates someone willing to listen to him and seek his will.
In addition to the messages, five interactive workshops gave the women a chance to discuss the practical application of the concepts presented at the retreat.
Beatrice Askew of Lewiston, North Carolina, said: "I am so thankful that God opened a door so there would be a women's ministry retreat in Raleigh. Surely his presence was there with all of us. He fed and clothed us spiritually. I think everybody is buzzing like a bee with joy!"
Connie Whitmire of Grimesland, North Carolina, said: "We were so uplifted and inspired by everything at the ladies retreat."
Raleigh members paid for the retreat through their fund-raising efforts. Pastor Don Mason said: "Even though we didn't come close to breaking even financially on this event, the spiritual returns we've reaped are worth every penny spent.
I feel our loving Father has blessed us with the resources in talent and treasure so that we could share his love with these women. It is our hope that his blessings in this retreat will be spread throughout the church by those who attended."
If you are interested in obtaining videos or audiocassettes of the retreat you may do so by contacting Helen Johnson at Box 2181, Smithfield, North Carolina, 27577. Her e-mail address is HSJohn965 @aol.com
Copyright © Worldwide Church of God, 2000