Christina Kuo
TUKWILA, Washington--More than 140 women from Alaska, British Columbia, Washington and Oregon joined together Nov. 15 at the third annual A Heart of Hope women's conference.
Women from other fellowships joined WCG ladies for a day focused on the theme "Sharing the Joy."
The day began with praise and worship led by Jane Salmons.
Sarah-Ann Woodfield, conference coordinator, shared with the women that "God has a plan for each woman here on a thread by thread, day by day, basis. Sharing the joy comes from a foundation of seeking God with all our hearts and being open to his plans for us."
Sarah-Ann then shared the acronym: S--Surrendered to God; H--Humble before God and man; A--Attentive to God's will in our lives; R--Receptive to teachable moments; E--Eager to Share the Joy. The conference would progress through this acronym creating a foundation for Sharing the Joy.
Kathy Miller, conference adviser, encouraged the women to understand the source of their joy. "Our joy is a gift from God and not a product of our situation. It is a fruit of the Spirit he has given us."
Guest speaker Marie Powers focused on God's will for women by going to Genesis 1-3. Marie asked, "Where are you looking for your life?" We must first look to God for life, she said. Woman was created because of Adam's aloneness. She was brought forth for relationship. God wanted man and woman to be at one with each other, openly meeting each other's relational needs.
With the fall came a separation from relationship with God. Being separated from God caused Eve to look to Adam to fulfill her "being" needs, for security, safety, significance, acceptance and unconditional love--needs that come only from God. Marie encouraged the women to look to God for their being needs. God wants men and women to achieve their potential together as one.
The first workshop of the afternoon was by Diana Frey, women's ministry director for Alderwood Manor Community Church. Diana gave an intensive workshop on friendship evangelism.
Christina Kuo from East Gate International Ministries gave the final workshop. Christina encouraged us to move from chaos to the joy of living, to live a focused life.
Christina Kuo
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