Every year, FIEC provides two retreats exclusively for women. Thrive is for women in ministry and the Ministry Wives’ Retreat is for those who are married to men in full-time pastoral ministry.
It’s an opportunity for women to spend time away from the busyness of church life and be encouraged in their service to Christ.
Both events took place in May and Women’s Ministry Co-ordinator Elinor Magowan spoke on ‘one thing’. Unpacking Psalm 27, John 9 and Philippians 3, Magowan looked at ‘one thing I ask’, ‘one thing I know’, and ‘one thing I do’.
FIEC Associate National Director Johnny Prime also spoke, looking at Jonathan in 1 Samuel 23. Prime explained that Jesus is the ultimate ‘Jonathan’ who comes alongside Christians in their weakness.
Becca Jenkins, Christchurch Baldock, said: ‘It was a delight to spend time with like-minded and inspiring women who are on the front line of church mission. Whether in discussion groups or chatting over meals, there was so much encouragement in finding common ground, offering and receiving support, and praying for each other.
‘We were all blessed by faithful and compelling Bible teaching. Our service of God is in His strength, not our own. He is sufficient for us, not only until next year’s retreat, but all the way to heaven.’
Thrive and the Ministry Wives’ Retreat have been set up by FIEC specifically to offer support to women in ministry and ministry wives. This year, both events were sold out with 70 women in attendance. The retreats are deliberately small to allow those coming along to foster friendships and partnerships in their work and ministry.
Thrive took place at a new venue this year – Charney Manor in Oxfordshire – and is for women who have been set apart by their church for ministry among other women.
Sarah Angell serves alongside her husband Nick at Providence Baptist Church in Bedfordshire. She went along to Thrive this year and said:
‘Life is run at such a pace; Thrive is a chance to slow down for couple of days and catch up. This year I needed to do just that.
‘Although there’s a structure to Thrive, there’s a lot of free time to sit and chat or go for a wander in the beautiful surroundings. I particularly value the fact that we’re not always rushing to the next thing.
‘We had small groups to discuss with, share our hearts and pray together. That was great, as we shared difficulties and disappointments, new ideas and encouragements. I also enjoyed the reports that were shared – it was good to hear what the Lord’s doing all over the country.
‘For me, Thrive was the time of refreshment I needed and I left Charney Manor ready to face the battle again.’
Thrive and the Ministry Wives’ Retreat will take place again in May 2020. Keep an eye on fiec.org.uk/events for more details.
