More than 100 women have enjoyed two special retreats organised by the Fellowship of Independent Evangelical Churches (FIEC). Women’s Ministry Co-ordinators, Rachel Sloan and Elinor Magowan report:
We prayerfully crafted two retreats for women serving in FIEC churches. In ‘normal times’ these retreats – Thrive, for women in ministry, and Ministry Wives’ Retreat, for wives of men in ministry – would be in-person and held at a retreat centre. This year they were each two days in length, mainly on Zoom and all ‘at home’.
Rachel spoke from Ephesians 1:1-10 and Romans 8:14-25 on the theme ‘Adopted as Daughters’, and Elinor led two seminars -‘Finding Joy’ and ‘True Beauty’. The focus was on the wonderful blessings that come from being a child of God.
They said: ‘We have the Holy Spirit, we are no longer slaves, fear is gone, and we can talk to God as our Father. In the darkest of times the challenge is to nourish our joy: don’t pretend, don’t forget, don’t be silent (Psalm 42 and 43). As children of God, we are to reflect the beauty of our beautiful Saviour, Jesus. We are transformed to be like Him in holiness, in obedience, and in love shown in sacrificial service and kind speech.’
Hearts full and longing for heaven
A testimony evening was closed with Johnny Prime speaking from John 11:5: Jesus’ love for the believer is individual and personal; it acts for our good and His glory; it is a costly love.
One participant commented: ‘I feel absolutely overwhelmed by all we’ve thought about. Heart completely full – and longing for heaven even more! Thank you so much!’
Women in small groups discussed and applied the teaching and, in free time, resources were provided for further individual reflection on the Bible passages.
Another delegate said: ‘The discussion questions were perceptive and prompted lots of good conversations’.
Rachel and Elinor said: ‘This year has been demanding and difficult for us all. To commit to spending extended time listening to clear, heart-warming Bible teaching, and working through application alone or with Christian friends will be of great spiritual benefit. Why not plan your own time of retreat this summer?’
A third participant said: ‘It really did feel like a time of rest, reflection, and relaxation away from the daily routine.’
