UCC Spring Women’s Retreat Hits Record Enrollment

By Isaac Meythaler

Upper Columbia Conference Communications Coordinator

The assembly room was jam-packed with more than 160 women in attendance, representing more than 40 different churches and including several non-Adventist community members. Those who attended the event appreciated beautiful music, stirring speakers, fresh food, hand-made artwork, and a warm and welcoming community of women.

Keynote speaker Jean Boonstra, associate speaker for Voice of Prophecy and creator of the radio show Discovery Mountain, shared powerful personal stories highlighting grace, as well as how empathy acts as an antidote to shame.

Additional guest speakers included Shauna Cruttenden, manager and treasurer of the Bonners Ferry Community Thrift Center, hospice chaplain Heidi Jones, and UCC health ministries coordinator Cindy Williams.

“We invited Jean Boonstra to come speak in 2021, but due to Covid that ended up being online instead, which was still such a blessing,” said Patty Marsh, UCC director of women’s ministries. “It was a delight to have Jean with us in person this year, and with one of her daughters as well!”

Special music for the weekend was provided by several talented musicians; Including cellist Olga Grigoryan and accompanying pianist Tatiana Sirotinskaya, as well as vocalist Sarah Droze accompanied by Ellen Tupper. Worship throughout the day also included musical praise led by Tracy Ganson, Jenni Won, and Michelle Carlile.

“We prayed for a good attendance and should not have been surprised by how quickly people signed up,” said Wendy Urbin, UCC women’s ministries administrative assistant, “and for a good number of attendees this was their first year attending.”

With record-high enrollment for this one-day retreat, registration closed two weeks early due to limitations on space. The women’s ministries team worked hard to find ways to squeeze more people in and was able to invite every person on the wait list to still attend.

One community guest who has attended for the last two years said, “I loved every portion of this special day! I am so glad that I came and am looking forward to next year’s. Thank you so much!” Gratitude was echoed by many other attendees. “I felt seen,” said another woman, “and that was exactly what I needed right now.”

More information regarding upcoming UCC women’s retreats and other initiatives can be found at www.uccsda.org/womensministries.