I attended my first retreat in Monroe, LA in March of 2017. I knew right away that these retreats were something special. I left that weekend with a fire and desire to know the Lord on a more personal level. I have always labeled myself as a Christian; however, I have never taken the time to really reflect on how Christ died for me and what that truly means. Attending my first retreat allowed me to do just that.
This ministry has provided a way for me to love and serve other women in my own community. It has connected me with women of all ages and backgrounds that I would not have a connection with otherwise. These new friendships are centered in Christ and have blessed my life beyond measure.
The Lord has provided countless blessings in order for us to create a local retreat ministry here in the Benton/Bossier City area. I am humbled everyday by His perfect plan for Illuminate Ministries.
My first Women’s Retreat experience came in March of 2018. I was uncertain of exactly what I was getting myself into when I pulled up to the church and handed over my cell phone. Little did I know that I was about to have a spiritual experience with our God like I have never experienced before. Not only did I experience the Holy Spirit moving throughout the weekend but when I returned home, I continued to feel the renewing of my relationship with God. It gave me the extra push I needed to get on my knees before God and work through some really tough things with him. I felt free, renewed and loved not only from our Heavenly Father but also from the new Sisters I had spent the entire weekend with. This unique Women’s ministry showed me that we are all flawed and struggling, that I am not alone, that we serve an almighty God who will never leave us nor forsake us and that He has chosen us for this very life we are living.
I went on my first retreat at the urging of a dear friend. I am so grateful for this experience. The retreat cemented my faith and love for Christ, and it also was a chance to really know Christ’s love for me. I saw Christ’s love at work through other women...the way they loved on women from all backgrounds and by the work and sacrifice they gave to make this retreat happen. I want this experience for the women of our community...for them to truly know that God loves them and to see other women sharing in His great and perfect love.
I am excited about Illuminate Ministries and what it will offer to the women in our community! God’s assurance during the planning of this ministry and retreat has been evident from the beginning. It has allowed me to see first hand how God’s timing is always the best, even when I don’t understand. The blessings we have received from churches and people within our community to be able to have this retreat is amazing. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen God so “in” a situation personally than with the development of this retreat. I am so excited to see what He has in store for Illuminate Ministries!