Posts filed under ‘Women’s Retreat’
Advice For A Successful Retreat Experience
Read this post and pick only a couple of things to implement. The idea isn’t to see how much you accomplish, but to have an enriched experience.
Have you been to a women’s retreat before? If you have, then you know that many first-time ladies are nervous. The following list of ideas can aid anyone in having a successful retreat.
Spiritual Preparation
Listen—How God speaks to you one day might be different from how He speaks to you on another day. Sometimes God’s message will come through loud and clear; sometimes it will be a just a whisper. The point is to listen!
- Expect God the Father to do something in your life this weekend.
- Open yourself up to God’s promptings.
- Spend time after each session in meditation, prayer, and honest talk with others.
Personal Preparation
Not everybody grows at the same speed; that’s okay—The reality is that you need to concentrate on your growth and let others be responsible for their own growth.
- Relax. Be yourself. You are already accepted. You have a role and a reason for being here. In fact, our Father meant for you to be here.
- Find the time to contemplate and to write your response(s) to each session.
- Write a letter before the retreat (to yourself) and do a self-evaluation after the retreat.
Relational Preparation
This is a perfect opportunity to build relationships—Between family, work, church, school, and ministry, there’s never enough time to devote to your girlfriend relationships. It’s important to develop a strong network of healthy relationships. Aren’t you glad you’ll have the chance to do that at retreat.
- Spend time with a woman or women you don’t know at all or very well
- Find a prayer partner for the weekend.
- Be respectful of one another’s feelings and thoughts—keep confidences, don’t judge, and believe the best about one other.
Tasty Tidbits…
Saturday Free Time—from noon to 3:55pm (Saturday PM session starts at 4:00 pm sharp!)
- Have fun.
- Be a good sport.
- Be open to God’s leading.
- Do something you’ve never done before.
Your Turn . . . What would you add to this list?
Related Posts . . .
- 5 Benefits from Attending Retreats (FFF – 2011)
- 6 Lessons About Retreat That Will Ease Your Nerves
- Do These 3 Things to Get the Most from Retreat
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NOTE: Pam and I reduced two pages of ideas into one page and rearranged them to fit 4 categories. We then included this page in the notebook we gave the women for this year’s retreat. I hope you find at least one idea helpful. Thanks for your help, Pam.
Five Reasons Women’s Retreat is a Good Value!
At our last women’s retreat Jeanne and Barbie led morning exercises in the grassy area outside the lodge.
1. Q. How much is it and what do you get for the money?
A. Women’s Retreat 2013 is $180.00. It is 2 nights and 3 days at Zephyr Point, May 31-June 2, 2013. The rooms are hotel style and have fresh sheets, plenty of hot water, and a bed for each woman. The majority of the rooms sleep 2. Check in is 5 pm on Friday.
2. Q. Anything else?
A. You get six meals: Friday night dinner, 3 meals on Saturday, breakfast and lunch on Sunday. There will also be snacks provided on Saturday afternoon and evening. If you have food requests (like vegan or lactose-intolerant), the kitchen will accommodate you. Be sure to mark that on the registration form.
3. Q. Is that it?
A. Of course not! The teaching and worship time will be top-notch. Jenny Arnez is one of our speakers. As always the schedule is not jam-packed, so you’ll have some free time on Saturday.
4. Q. That’s a lot for $180.00 That’s it, right?
A. No way! Each woman will also receive a notebook that has lots of room for note-taking, exercises for quiet time, and resources to continue the learning once home.
5. Q. Wow! Surely this is it?
A. Oh, no. The Women’s Ministry Team always spoils each attendee with a bed treat. This secret item is different every year. The only way to get one of these gems is to attend the Retreat.
Q. Count me in! How do I sign up for the Women’s Retreat this coming May 31-June 2? NOTE: This is not Memorial Day Weekend.
A. Fill out a registration form which is located on a table in the Foyer. Or email me (susan@cnchurch.org) and I will send you a form. Turn it in with your deposit to the office, put it in an Offering Box, or mail it. Do this today. The spots are limited.
Deposits are due March 10th. You can talk with me or Sydney (our book keeper) to make payments. The final payment is due May 5th.
If you have a question, contact Pastor Susan at susan@cnchurch.org or 635-5992 x14.
Your Turn . . . . When was the last time you attended a CNC retreat? . . . . What was your best memory?
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5 Blessings from Retreat 2011
In the past 10 years I’ve had difficulties . . .
- in a marriage that ended in a divorce;
- in financial stress because of finishing my education and because of unexpected bills;
- in health regarding a badly hurt back and broken shoulder;
- and in fearing that my dreams would never materialize.
If it wasn’t for being able to draw upon God’s strength, I don’t know where I would be today. But since God is faithful to His promises and His character, I have overcome (or am overcoming) these difficulties.
Because of these strength-buster events, this year’s women’s retreat topic was of special interest to me: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:12).
3 women shared their story (at retreat) about how God strengthened them. Their talks were frank and vulnerable. Debbie shared how she found strength to overcome bad decisions which impacted her financially. Pam shared how she found wellness and strength in her many continuous health issues. Lastly Jenny shared how she trusts God’s truths enough to believe she was created to dream and to see those dreams fulfilled. I saw in each of their stories that God was faithful to them too. I came away greatly encouraged.
Below are 5 more blessings I saw this past weekend.
1. Everyone came home well. There were no accidents, near accidents or illnesses while travelling to and from or while at the conference center. This is always a HUGE blessing. Right, Marsha?!
2. I roomed with my sista. I don’t think we’ve been room mates since I was in high school and we shared a bunk bed. I am glad to tell you there was no fighting or pouting. Instead I felt comforted to room with her since my gallbladder wasn’t too happy and my shoulder gave me some pain. I enjoyed our conversations at weird times during the night. (I did miss Lorna though.)
3. The talks made an impact on behaviour and thinking. I.e. About 9 times I heard a woman state, “I was going to buy xyz, but then I remembered Debbie’s talk and I changed my mind.” At my table-time during Jenny’s talk, I realized that others have the same fears and questions I have regarding dreams. I was encouraged by this and motivated to get to the next step in growth.
4. Women connected with one another. It was so cool to see women playing games, chatting in groups, laughing and teasing, praying and crying, walking in pairs, and intently listening to one another. We connected on a friendship level as well as on a spiritual level.
5. Communion was powerful. Elise explicitly stated what Our Lord went through (bodily) at His crucifixion. Jessica pointed us to the song In Christ Alone where it says we are “bought with the precious blood of Christ.” Singing this song during communion was especially meaningful. Lorelei signed the words and that moved me to tears several times because it was so beautiful.
It was the prayer of the Women’s Ministry team that the women experience God’s faithfulness and strength this weekend. We also prayed they’d experience connection with the material, the speakers, and each other. I am grateful that God did all this and more.
Share your blessings in the comments or write a post and link up with Susanne’s meme, Friday’s Fave Five. If you went to retreat, PLEASE share a blessing or two (or five).
Come to Retreat June 10-12 Because . . .
It’s a one time a year event. If you attend, you can refresh your relationship with God, others and yourself. Your chores and other responsibilities will be put on hold.
Therefore, the distraction-free environment (except for the awesome surroundings of Lake Tahoe) will allow you time to . . .
- Worship,
- Learn,
- Play, and
- Have solitude.
Sign up today. Click on the link for the Women’s Retreat Brochure 2011 or pick one up from the Secret sister bookcase. Fill it out and turn it in with your deposit. The deposit is due March 6th.
Have questions? Contact me at susan@cnchurch.org or 635-5992.
Related Post . . . How to go to Women’s Retreat in 5 Easy Steps
Quiz Shows What Women Won’t Find At Retreat June 10-12, 2011
Draw a line from the list on the Left to the correct answer on the Right to see what women will NOT find at Retreat. It will be at Zephyr Point Conference Center.
| Long lines for the | Women | |
| Bunk | Kill-Joy Women | |
| Coin operated | Schedule | |
| Cliché | Chores | |
| Critical, | And/or Kids | |
| Jam packed | Answers | |
| Significant others | Showers | |
| Isolation from other | Food | |
| Household | Bathroom | |
| Bland | Beds |
Isn’t it great you won’t find these things at retreat? But right now you will find Women’s Retreat Brochure 2011. Fill one out today and turn it in with your deposit ($90.o0). Or you can start making payments to hold your spot. Put Women Retreat Payment in the memo section of your check.
Retreat cost is $180.00. Go here to see why that’s a great bargain.
Let us know if you have any questions. Contact me at the church at 635-5992.
Answers . . . Answers . . . Answers . . . Answers . . . Answers Below
No long lines for the bathroom…No bunk beds…No coin operated showers.
Women will be staying in hotel style comfort with 2 comfy beds per room and a shower ensuite. These rooms typically house 2 women.
No cliché answers…No critical, kill-joy women…No jam packed schedule.
Our speakers are real women who have found real answers. CNC ladies are gentle, accepting and fun. And the schedule is just the right balance between group time and free time, and between scheduled meetings and informal interactions.
No significant others and/or kids….No isolation from other women…
This is a weekend to spend on you. You choose how much alone time or group time to have. Because we will all be housed in the lodge, it will be easy to spend time with CNC women.
No household chores…No bland food.
You are forbidden to go into the staff laundry to take care of the sheets and towels. You are equally forbidden to enter the kitchen to whip up dinner. Instead, you will be pampered by housekeeping and cooks alike. You will enjoy the accommodations and tasty food.
Your Turn . . . Go ahead and sign up today. Deposit deadline is March 6th.
Related Post . . . No Matter How Hard You Try, These 6 Things Will Not be at Women’s Retreat
Five Reasons Women’s Retreat is a Bargain!
1. Q. How much is it and what do you get for the money?
A. Women’s Retreat 2011 is $180.00. It is 2 nights and 3 days at Zephyr Point. The rooms are hotel style and have fresh sheets, plenty of hot water, and a bed for
each woman. The majority of the rooms sleep 2. Check in is 4 pm on Friday.
2. Q. Anything else?
A. You get six meals: Friday night dinner, 3 meals on Saturday, breakfast and lunch on Sunday. There will also be snack provided on Saturday afternoon and evening. If you have food requests (like vegan or lactose-intolerant), the kitchen will accommodate you. Be sure to mark that on the registration form.
3. Q. Is that it?
A. Of course not! The teaching and worship time will be top-notch. This year we’ll hear 4 women share how God was their strength in various aspects of their lives and how you can have the same. As always the schedule is not jam-packed, so you’ll have some free time too.
4. Q. That’s a lot for $180.00 That’s it, right?
A. No way! Each woman will also receive a notebook that has lots of room for note-taking, exercises for quiet time, and resources to continue the learning once home.
5. Q. Wow! Surely this is it?
A. Oh, no. The Women’s Ministry Team always spoils each attendee with a bed treat. This secret item is different every year. The only way to get one of these gems is to attend the Retreat.
Q. Count me in! How do I sign up for the Women’s Retreat this coming June 10-13, 2011?
A. Fill out a registration form which is located on the bookcase by the Women’s Ministry Bulletin Board. You can also download a Women’s Retreat Brochure 2011 here. Turn it in with your deposit to the office, put it in an Offering Box, or mail it. Do this today. The spots are limited. Deposits are due March 6th.
If you have a question, contact Pastor Susan at susan@cnchurch.org or 635-5992 x14.
11 Reasons Women Attend Retreats
The following comments came from the Retreat 2010 evaluation. These comments are typical of what we see from year-
to-year. Since the same ladies are planning this year’s retreat, expect to see the same great results. 🙂
- I came because it is the only real way to get to know people.
- I came to hear the speaker.
- Reputation of CNC women’s retreats.
- I always do. So tradition!
- I am refreshed and blessed year after year.
- Time away with the anticipation of growing closer to the LORD.
- Fellowship with fun and friendly ladies (including time with my wonderful cousin).
- Good value for the money.
- Knowing that I personally needed the time away for ME.
- Close, comfortable location.
- Your Reason Goes Here!
50 ladies have the opportunity to attend the women’s retreat at Zephyr Point Presbyterian Conference Center June 10-12, 2011. There are 25 hotel style rooms in the lodge (double occupancy). Join us as we enjoy a comfortable atmosphere, friendship, and time away to grow in God’s Word and love.
Retreat 2011 Brochures are available on the Secret Sister Bookcase or me and I will email you one (Susan@cnchurch.org). Or you can get the Women’s Retreat Brochure 2011 by clicking on the link.
Recycling is Good for the Planet, but . . . .
Recycling – it’s good for the planet, but…..
it’s even better for the Women’s Ministry Team.
Over the past 6 months your generous donations of old cell phones and empty printer ink cartridges have provided over 80% of the price of a retreat scholarship for one lucky woman at CNC. With your continued generosity we will be able to send several women to retreat who otherwise would not be able to afford to attend.
We can accept the following items for recycling:
- Cell phones
- Laptop computers
- Digital and video cameras
- MP3 Players
- Inkjet cartridges – these fit in your palm (no Toner cartridges)
- GPS devices
- Radar Detectors
- Electronic book readers
Thank you so much for remembering us when you are replacing your cell phone or your inkjet print cartridge. Our container sits near the water fountain next t0 room 8 (the old office). Please recycle whenever you can – we really appreciate your support.
Women’s Ministry will even pick up your donations. If you want to arrange a donation pick up or have any questions, call Marsha at 635-5992.
6 Lessons About Retreat That Will Ease Your Nerves
CNC women are going to Retreat June 11-13, 2010. We’ll be preparing our homes, work, family and friends for the weekend away. Some women will also be preparing their hearts. Hopefully one or two of these lessons will help you go to this Retreat more prepared and with less anxiety.
1. Retreats can be scary. I thought I was the only person who was afraid to go on a retreat. But after talking to the ladies, I learned that quite a few were nervous. Our reasons were all different, but most were based on fear. I am so glad I didn’t let my fears convince me to stay home.
2. I don’t have to do everything. We were encouraged to take care of ourselves. If I felt the need for some alone time, that was okay. I could stay in my room or take a walk during a scheduled event or free time. I just let someone know my whereabouts, when I went out alone.
3. Don’t expect perfection. Something always goes wrong… It could be the food, an irritating personality, hurt feelings, lumpy bed, etc. Sometimes I didn’t agree with everything the speaker said. Even though things go wrong, when I focus on God and what He has to teach me, all the little difficulties are by far worth it.
4. It’s a great opportunity to build relationships. With my busy schedule, there’s never enough time to devote to friends. At retreat, I have time to do just that! Retreat is a great time to develop and nurture a strong network of healthy relationships.
5. The schedule had a good balance. We didn’t spend all our time in meetings. There were four sessions which included music, instruction, and group time. I loved the Saturday free time (about four hours). I was able to have alone time AND girlfriend time. The weekend schedule was just right for me. See #2.
6. Sessions were respectful. At my first retreat I was afraid that I would be embarrassed by my lack of knowledge. But it was a groundless fear. The teachings and the discussions were respectful and allowed me to participate as I was comfortable.
Note From the Retreat Team: Whether or not this is your first retreat, it is our prayer that you see God in a new and powerful way. May you build friendships that last a lifetime. May you see Him in your life story and that the things you learn will help light your path.
Hat Tip: I’d like to thank Denise Drake for editing this piece.
Your Turn – – – What are some lessons you’ve learned that have prepared you to better enjoy retreats?
Related Posts:
How Would You Answer These Questions?
Answer 7 questions to determine how to spend June 11-13, 2010.
- Looking for a way to get to know CNC ladies better?
- Want to spend some quality and quantity time with God?
Jenny Arnez
- Open to hearing what Jenny Arnez (our speaker) has to share with us?
- Hoping to snag some hours just for you?
- Would a hotel-style, 2 woman room (with bathroom) surrounded by the beauty of Lake Tahoe soothe your soul, mind and body?
- Like to spend free time playing games like Apples to Apples and Spoons or chatting late into the night?
Most importantly, are you available Friday, June 11th- Sunday, June 13th?
If you answered these questions with a “YES,” click on the following link for the writeable brochure 2010 pdf for more information. We’d love to have you join us for this once a year event.
Contact me today. I’d love to answer your questions, qualms, or corrections!
P.S. We are also taking names for a waiting list. There are usually openings the last week because of unforseen circumstances.
Our Story Can Include Freedom Because Christ’s Death Bought It For Us
I cried while watching Taking Chance tonight (movie starring Kevin Bacon). A young marine, PFC Chance Phelps, died in Iraq. The movie showed the impact of his death and it showed the respect and love others had for PFC Phelps.
Today women and men in our armed forces die to protect freedom. Women and men in our armed forces from past decades died to protect the same. I pray that I, that we, live honorably in recognition of these sacrifices.
Christ died for the sake of freedom too. He died in order that I might, that we, might have freedom from sin and freedom from the grip of eternal death. I pray that I, that we, live honorably in recognition of His sacrifice.
And while Christians have freedom from sin and freedom from the grip of eternal death, sometimes some of us mess up. We don’t live honorable lives. Or we let an unhonorable past cripple our today and thus our future. We don’t let Christ’s sacrifice make a difference in our lives. We discount the impact of His death.
Sister, God has a good future for you, no matter what your past or present-day sins. He longs to complete the good work He started in you on the day of your salvation. He rejoices over you and isn’t shy to let you know this.
Retreat 2010 is about seeing that good story God has for us. Our speaker, Jenny Arnez, will lead us in exploring this story. Please, accept this invitation to Retreat 2010. Our prayer is that each attendee will be positively impacted by the death of Christ . . . that we’ll leave with a clearer sense of God’s love . . . that we’ll grasp and live out our own good story . . . and that we’ll live in the freedom Christ’s death brings.
Mark June 11-13, 2010 on your calendar as busy! The Retreat is at Zephyr Point. Pick up your Retreat brochure from the brown Secret Sister bookcase.
Turn in your registration form and deposit by Wednesday, March 10. There are only 50 spots. The balance is due Sunday, May 16. LaRee and Marsha are the gals with the information to your questions. I look forward to seeing you there.
Journal Exercise to Complete at the End of Retreat
We just spent a lovely weekend right by Lake Tahoe. The weekend’s topic was an overview of Boundaries and presented in a low-key, sensitive manner. One attendee said she enjoyed how the topic was shared without guilt. Me too.
I also liked the word picture that boundaries, like fences, should have a gate.
Boundaries are supposed to be able to “breathe,” to be like fences with a gate that can let the good in and the bad out. Individuals with walls for boundaries can let in neither bad nor good. No one touches them.
God designed our personal boundaries to have gates. We should have the freedom to enjoy safe relationships and to avoid destructive ones.” (Boundaries by Dr. Cloud & Dr. Townsend, pp 52-53)
At the end of a retreat, class, or seminar, I like to evaluate the experience. This helps me to see what I learned and how to incorporate the learning into my life.
Below are some questions to ponder after your next retreat.
- What were your expectations and hopes regarding the following: The topic . . . Yourself . . . The ladies . . . God?
- Were your expectations and hopes met in each of the four areas? Why or why not? How?
- What one or two ideas made a great impact on you this weekend?
- What will you do with this information?
- Who will you share it with?
Your Turn – – – How did you answer the questions? What questions would you add?
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Fruitful Words 
