Grace Ladies Retreat

Aug 27, 2025

Sisterhood

A few short years ago, God began moving us on a journey from our home, work, friends, and church family to relocate to Lake County. Transitioning from a place where deep roots and friendships flourished to a place where every face is unfamiliar can be hard – really hard.

One non-negotiable was to establish a new Bible teaching church, where we had no history, no connections, and no friends. I knew to survive mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, I would need to find my Sisterhood. Alert – incoming spiritual attack. Would they like me? Would they think I’m too short, too dumb, too fat, too frumpy, too weird? Well, I am weird. Where could I fit in? Where could I serve? Where could I start?

One place I was not considering as a starting point of connection was the annual Women’s Retreat. I was busy. I didn’t know anything about it. Where is Hartstone? No one invited me. Cabins – really? Who were all these ladies who have known each other forever, share all of life’s important moments together, connect perfectly, and are all BFFs? Clearly, there is no room for me. No one cares. But, God…

“We humans keep brainstorming options and plans, but God’s purpose prevails.”
— Proverbs 19:21 MSG

It’s funny how a little time in surrendered prayer melts my mental obstacles, yields to correct thinking, and the right pathway. THANKFULLY, I listened to that still, small voice and attended. Our gracious Lord had planned a weekend full of laughter, connection with my three beautiful roommates (whom I now love dearly and enjoy every moment we share together), precious time with Jesus, and a fresh glimpse of His grace. It was all waiting for me there. My Sisterhood journey at Grace Church began by taking one small step of faith by saying, “Yes,” to attending the retreat.

Recently, I’ve been pondering the idea of Sisterhood and considering what it means to be a sister in Christ.

• Belonging: A deep sense of being known, accepted, and loved—just as you are.

• Support: Women lifting each other up through prayer, encouragement, and presence.

• Shared purpose: Walking together in faith, growth, and service, each bringing her unique gifts.

• Sacred trust: A bond that honors vulnerability, celebrates joy, and holds space for healing.

The timeless classic Mr. Rogers song rings in my soul.

“It’s a beautiful day in this neighborhood,
A beautiful day for a neighbor.
Would you be mine? Could you be mine?
Won’t you please? Won’t you please?
Please won’t you be my neighbor?”

Won’t you be my sister?

Join me on the Sisterhood journey at the Grace Ladies Retreat

Date: Fun begins Friday, October 24 (Check in 3:30 pm) – Sunday, October 26 (Check out 11:00 am)

Location: Hartstone Bible Camp 17856 Van Arsdale Road Potter Valley, CA 95469