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U.K. ministers wives:
a heartwarming weekend

By Hilary Reeves

ERTFORDSHIRE, England—The 2004 U.K. ministers wives conference took place the weekend of Nov. 19 to 21 at the High Leigh conference center in the Hertfordshire countryside 25 miles from central London.

From left: Marion Hartrick, Elizabeth Arnold and Hilary Reeves.

“Turning Hearts to Home” was the theme of the conference, and the main speaker was Candace Chambers-Belida. The women also heard taped messages from Sharon May and Archibald Hart.

Enthusiastic worship periods were led by Tina Sullivan, Sarah Anderson and Angela Kiernander, and Susie Dick led a moving prayer and sharing session.

The women showed a noticeable depth of care and concern for one another, and they shed many tears as they unburdened themselves and expressed God’s love.

Jackie Mill (left) and Jannice May.

The women were moved by the testimony of personal tragedy that Candace Chambers-Belida had suffered, but also were greatly encouraged by her dogged determination and positive approach. The motto on the mugs she brought with her declared “Quitting is not an option!”

She fleshed out her three messages with scriptures and an acknowledgement of God’s sovereignty over her life. She reminded her audience that ordinary women become extraordinary because they accept the challenges God offers them. All of our struggles are necessary to fit us for the job that God wants us to do. Our role is to become his chosen vessels of honor.

Kathleen Hart, chaplain to student wives at Fuller Seminary, sent a letter and laminated card to each woman. The women heard taped messages from her daughter, Sharon Hart May (who has a doctorate in marriage and family therapy), and Kathleen’s husband, Archibald, professor of psychology at Fuller Seminary.

Sharon exhorted the women to be safe havens for their husbands, children and church members so they can venture boldly into the world. Archibald Hart spoke on “Anger, Resentment and Forgiveness.” He warned that anger blocks the ability to love, and unresolved anger leads to resentment, which is the cancer of the emotions. Forgiveness is the only way to break this cycle. It is the basis of the new covenant and the genius of the Christian faith.