13 comments

Paula Hendricks

True Woman Sighting: "Times of Refreshing"

Posted on 04.03.09 by Paula Hendricks | Twitter: @PaulaWrites678
Topics: True Woman Sightings

I tiptoed into the expansive, elegant great room at The Lodge this morning, to catch a bit of Revive Our Hearts’ first Women’s Ministry Directors' Retreat.

Eleven women were standing in a circle, each holding a large sheet of paper. From what I can tell, one side listed a current sin they were struggling with, and the other side explained how Jesus was freeing them from this. Afterward, they had a lively discussion about the importance of vulnerability. It beautifully mirrored what I’d read earlier this morning in Romans 15:7: “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” As leaders lead the way in being real and accepting others, they reflect the fact that the Church isn’t a place for perfect people, and that Jesus really does forgive our sins!

The women then sat down with hot tea and marvelous chocolate chip cookies, to hear Sarah Stevenson speak about how to model biblical womanhood. She emphasized the importance of growing in intimacy with Jesus, being a woman of the Word, prioritizing husband and children (if applicable), serving under the covering of the church’s authority, protecting a balanced schedule, living a life that matches our talk, recognizing ministry opportunities and responsibilities, and equipping other women to serve the Body with their unique gifts. As I listened, I had to repent of my competitive spirit (pride), and ask God to help me delight in, affirm, and equip women to excel at fulfilling their God-given gifts.

This retreat is practical, interactive, intimate—and true to name—refreshing. The schedule consists of small group discussion and activities, time alone with Jesus, sessions with Revive Our Hearts’ speakers, free time, and amazing food. I asked one woman why she came, and she said she wanted to meet women in a similar position and exchange ideas. I was struck with how most women’s ministry leaders are lone rangers, and don’t have many opportunities to network with others.

If this is true of you, I encourage you to sign up for one of the remaining three retreats this year: May 14-16, Oct. 8-10, and Nov. 12-14.  I highly recommend the property, the speakers, the food, the format—all of it!

Does your church have a women's ministry leader? If you are one, do you feel like a "lone ranger"? What do you think of the sound of a retreat like this?

Comments

  1. I am deeply searching for the right church. I live in
    Southeastern Wisconsin. My heart is so hungry for the
    body of Christ that He wants me in. Do you know of
    any churches near Milwaukee?
    posted by Michele
    on Friday, April 3, 2009 at 2:49 pm
  2. Yes, my church has a women's ministry leader. We just started a women's ministry at our church at the beginning of this year and this lady took the lead. She can be somewhat of a "lone ranger" because at the church she left from, she did alot by herself. However, since she came to worship with us and became our leader, she says it is totally different because everyone here just gets right in there and offers to help her. I think we are just so glad that we finally have a women's ministry, we're all just willing to do whatever.

    I think a women's retreat of any kind is good. Most women I know are burning the candle at both ends night and day and would love being able to spend time alone with God and with other women of like passion. Great job, ROH!!!
    posted by Jodi
    on Friday, April 3, 2009 at 2:54 pm
  3. I was attending this very large church and the womens groups were outstanding. We have currently moved away from that area. The Church I attend currently is very small, and is struggleing each month to keep its doors open. No they do not have a Womens group. I long to attend another one. When I was attending the Womens group each week i felt so inriched, so alive, my cup was full. I would take what i learned and some how used it though out the week or it just gave me somthing different to think about on how i could do things different or what would Jesus do in this or that situation. I long for one of those goups again.
    chapman
    posted by annie
    on Saturday, April 4, 2009 at 7:51 am
  4. I have picked up the role of leading the women of our church since returning from the True Woman conference. We are a small church and just started 2 1/2 years ago. I feel like a "lone ranger" because I have never been part of a women's minstry before and am embarking on this call without training or experience. I just have a heart to see women's joy restored as they learn to live according to the truth from God's Word. (Psalm 119:1-8) The women of our church seem to be hungry to learn and grow and get connected to one another. I am fully trusting on the Lord and His strength alone to develop this ministry. But, I also long for godly wisdom from other women in this ministry to help me as we move forward. I would love to attend the conference! It sounds absolutely amazing!
    posted by Tracy
    on Saturday, April 4, 2009 at 11:07 am
  5. I am frustrated in my church right now as it seems everyone is so focused on keeping the family intact in worship that there is no room left for women's ministry. I am an oddball there but the preaching is sound, and that is sometimes hard to find. I once tried to begin a class, but being that I am the ONLY mother who has chosen not to homeschool her children I don't think these women think they could possibly learn anything from a teacher who would dare to send her children to public school! (VERY sweet ladies, I might add - just a different perspective on how we aim to bring our children up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.) I am now looking for ways to supplement what I can't get at my church and I am so thankful for Revive Our Hearts.
    http://www.sickmiller.blogspot.com
    posted by Stacey
    on Sunday, April 5, 2009 at 10:50 pm
  6. Dear Michele,

    I'm asking around, and will email you if I receive a recommendation. Keep taking it to God--I can't wait to hear how He provides for you!
    posted by Paula Hendricks
    on Monday, April 6, 2009 at 10:01 am
  7. Good to hear from you, Jodi! Thanks for praying for and supporting your new women's ministry director. That's huge.
    posted by Paula Hendricks
    on Monday, April 6, 2009 at 10:02 am
  8. Dear Annie,

    I'm sorry that you had to leave that group. Sounds like it was a great gift for a season--as are most things. Maybe God gave you that experience so that you can do something similar in your small church. Maybe even getting together to pray for your church as a start?
    posted by Paula Hendricks
    on Monday, April 6, 2009 at 10:02 am
  9. Oh, I hope so much that you can come to the ROH Women's Ministry Directors' Retreat this May, Tracy. If not, though, just keep prioritizing time in the Word. I am often reminded of the fact that I can't take women further than I've gone myself--scary!
    posted by Paula Hendricks
    on Monday, April 6, 2009 at 10:03 am
  10. Dear Stacey,

    Is there a way you can get involved in these women's lives? Maybe take them out to lunch? Or bring them lunch, or offer to help with a project in their home, since it sounds like they need to be at home all day? I know how easy it is to assume that people are judging you, but I'm praying you can assume the best about them and build friendships with them for God's glory.

    Maybe there are some Christian moms in the public school system you can get together with and encourage, too. Praying that God will direct you . . .
    posted by Paula Hendricks
    on Monday, April 6, 2009 at 10:03 am
  11. Hi Michele,
    We live in the Milwaukee area (Menomonee Falls) - and although we haven't found a church, we do have a great Bible study with amazing fellowship. If you're interested, feel free to e-mail. mcniels730@yahoo.com
    posted by Emily
    on Monday, April 6, 2009 at 12:38 pm
  12. Just a thought: If you feel like the "Lone Ranger,"
    pray and ask God to give you a Tonto - a faithful companion!

    He gave Paul a Timothy, a Luke, etc.....

    God will give you someone to come alongside - and maybe not the person you expected, but the one that He has prepared.

    Ellen
    posted by Ellen Sutton
    on Tuesday, April 7, 2009 at 11:49 am
  13. Good word, Ellen. And very sweet of you, Emily. Very cool!!
    posted by Paula Hendricks
    on Thursday, April 9, 2009 at 5:41 pm

Leave a Comment:

We love hearing from you, and will post your comment as long as it is appropriate, and is written in a tone that is encouraging, edifying, and loving to others. Even then, know that the following comments do not necessarily reflect the views of Revive Our Hearts.