Women’s Retreat 2015

Against the sobering backdrop of multiplying persecution of Christians around the world, the women from Grace Valley Christian Center gathered to celebrate God’s faithfulness and power. Over 180 women attended this years’ special Women’s Retreat, commemorating its 20th anniversary with lovely corsages.

The day opened with prayer, worship, reading of God’s word, and a testimony from a newly married woman about the power of prayer in the context of a holy life. In keeping with the theme of persevering in faith and looking to God for the power to do so, a special women’s choir presented two melodious selections: “Lift Up Your Eyes” and “Keep Your Lamps Burning.”

Mrs. Mathew, wife of GVCC’s Senior Pastor P. G. Mathew, ministered to those assembled that they must hope in God and the power of the Holy Spirit as we face a turbulent and uncertain future. She shared from her own life that in the context of great persecution and political unrest God worked vibrant faith in her family that spread to others. Her father was especially used of God to bring the gospel to many, overcoming many trials through powerful faith and prayer. She specifically encouraged younger women to make their faith their own. Dispelling many myths regarding true filling of the Holy Spirit, she taught that the Holy Spirit enables us to be strong and bold witnesses for Christ. This type of filling comes only to those living obediently to

God and praying in a persevering way. She spurred all present to let go of whatever sin entangles them and be wise to follow God.

Following a delicious luncheon, Mrs. Broderick, Principal of Grace Valley Christian Academy, continued to speak about the power of the Holy Spirit in the second session stating that God often sends his Spirit to prepare us to face trials. We are stabilized by God’s Spirit and as sisters in Christ have the privilege of walking openly with one another. Acknowledging we all face difficulties, she encouraged us that these trials, by God’s grace, can even make us thrive spiritually. If we walk in transparency with one another we can share each others’ burdens and victories. God helps the person who is open and exposes sin that it might be covered in the blood of Christ! Even in the greatest trial she encouraged us that God makes the way where there is no way because he is the way. As we surrender to his plan and look up to God for guidance he opens doors and leads us.

The blessed time of spiritual refreshment closed with the women breaking into small groups according to their season of life to share and pray together. May God continue his reviving work in the hearts and lives of all who came!

View more pictures from this year’s women’s retreat as well as some from past retreats by visiting the women’s ministry page.