From December 1 to 3, pastors’ wives from across the Sri Lanka Mission gathered for an Empowerment Retreat—a spiritually enriching and practically focused event designed to inspire and equip them for their unique roles in ministry. The retreat emphasized embracing their God-given calling, placing God at the center of their lives, and preparing for impactful service in their congregations and communities.
Led by dedicated facilitators Yunju Kim, MSA Coordinator; Alice Emerson, Women’s and Family Ministries Director; and Cristhela Pereira, Associate Director, the retreat offered practical seminars, heartfelt testimonies, and meaningful fellowship. These elements created an atmosphere of learning, encouragement, and spiritual renewal, impacting all who attended.
Key Themes and Focus Areas
The retreat’s theme, “Embracing Your God-Given Calling,” resonated deeply with attendees, inspiring them to find renewed purpose and strength in their ministry roles. Seminars addressed crucial topics such as the significant influence of pastors’ wives within their churches and communities, highlighting their vital role in ministry. Practical strategies for balancing family and ministry were also discussed, helping attendees understand how to support their husbands effectively while nurturing their spiritual, emotional, and familial well-being. Moreover, the facilitators underscored the importance of prioritizing God in everyday life, encouraging a deeper, more personal relationship with Christ as the foundation for sustainable and impactful ministry.
Personal Testimonies and Fellowship
A standout feature of the retreat was the testimony-sharing sessions, during which pastors’ wives recounted their ministry journeys. These personal stories included moments of witnessing lives transformed through God’s work and the challenges and struggles they faced along the way. The authenticity and vulnerability of these testimonies created an environment of mutual encouragement and understanding.
Moments of fellowship further enriched the experience, as attendees connected over shared meals, prayer, and heartfelt conversations. These interactions fostered a strong sense of community, building a supportive network of peers that extended beyond the retreat itself.
Empowerment for Continued Ministry
Facilitators encouraged the attendees to take the inspiration and lessons from the retreat back to their local congregations. The retreat reinforced the church’s commitment to recognizing and uplifting the vital contributions of pastors’ wives, emphasizing their indispensable role in strengthening ministry families and inspiring local congregations.
By the end of the retreat, attendees left feeling spiritually renewed, practically equipped, and ready to serve God and their communities with greater purpose and passion. This Empowerment Retreat not only strengthened the individual participants but also bolstered the collective mission of the Sri Lanka Mission, ensuring its continued impact and growth.