By Theresa Nelson
BELLEVUE, Washington--Wonderful, rejuvenating, bonding, refreshing, inspirational.
These were words used throughout the day Nov. 17 as women described their experience of attending the Heart of Hope Women's Conference in Bellevue.
The theme of the conference was women ministering to women through encouragement.
"This is our first step to go outside into the community and realize we have something to offer the non-Christian and Christian community," Sarah-Ann Woodfield, Women's Club coordinator, said about the conference.
Conference speakers were Tammy Tkach and Sheila Graham, Women's Ministry Support coordinators for the Worldwide Church of God; Mrs. Woodfield, coordinator of the conference; Kathy Miller, adviser for the conference and wife of pastor Bill Miller; Katie Fortune, founding editor of Aglow Magazine and author of several books; and Ruth Johnston, business training consultant.
Of the 380 women who attended the conference, 20 percent were not from the Worldwide Church of God.
The morning began with praise as the Heart of Hope choir sang "Sisters," the theme song of the conference. Each speech was followed by music that tied in with the speaker's message.
The idea of sisterhood in Christ and women's ministry were emphasized. "There are women out there who need help, but who don't want to ask for help," Mrs. Graham told the audience.
"Women's ministry is about meeting the special needs we as women have, both in the church and outside."
Mrs. Miller encouraged the women: "We need to reflect God's love out to others. We may be the only sermon or light they see."
Mrs. Tkach urged women to follow Christ to become leaders. "I believe God is showing women that they have a leadership role in the church."
Her final exhortation was to focus on Christ: "Recognize the gifts God gave you and use these gifts in women's ministry. You can become a leader for your children, your neighbors, your co-workers."
During breaks, the women shared their thoughts concerning the conference.
Sonja Meyers of Federal Way, Washington, said, "I am truly glad to see how the Holy Spirit is moving us to action and equipping us with the tools we need to serve others."
"Something I can apply to my own life--very practical," said Anna Snelgrove, who is not of our fellowship. "I found many nuggets. God knew I needed this. I'm glad he opened the door for me to come."
Lorraine Welsh of Calgary, Alberta, shared: "The biggest thing I felt was the common bond in all these women in Christ.
"The lady next to me expressed that she could now admit that she was not a good cook and still feel good about herself."
Women were not the only ones inspired. Bart Baril, who helped with the sound and lighting, thought the women's conference was a good start.
"I predict a lot more growth, faster, with the direction the church is going. In times past I felt we've only used about half of our strength," Mr. Baril said.
The conference ended with the audience and presenters joining the choir in singing "Sisters."
Then Shari Miller, praise leader for the conference, sang "Go Light Your World" to the women who found themselves suddenly sitting in a darkened room.
As Shari sang, small candles of light started to shine throughout the room and on stage. Small flashlights had been given to the women and to the choir for this meaningful light show.
Theresa Nelson attends the Everett, Washington, church.
Dec. 17, 1996, Worldwide News, page seven
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