What is it like going to one of Jolene Ivey’s well-planned retreats?
What is it like to be one of hundreds of women who have come to be refreshed and renewed? If you have not had such an experience, let me challenge you to take advantage of an upcoming event.
March 10-12 is the date, and the place is Perdido Beach Resort in Orange Beach at Gulf Shores. “Women’s Weekend Away” is sponsored by Alabama Woman’s Missionary Union (WMU) and has master planner Jolene Ivey at the helm. What a program she has put together!
Outstanding speaker Barbara Joiner will do the Bible study. Mixing laughter, evidence of a deep relationship with God and life experiences you won’t believe, she captivates an audience.
And then there is Jolene Ivey. Most of you reading this know Jolene from her excellent work with WMU in the past. This woman is remarkable. In the last months she has “been through the fire” as she battled a serious illness. She will also be a main speaker, and I would not miss hearing her for anything.
Being honored to keep up with Jolene through e-mail, I have been touched by her determination and strength. Needless to say, she has been guided by the presence of One unseen on her perilous journey. From the words of her e-mail, qualities of her character have leaped out to my heart and made me a better person.
Jolene, allow me to take this opportunity to tell you: If ever I have to go through anything in my life again that is difficult, you will be the first person I will call for your words of wisdom and instructions on how you keep on keeping on and with such a cheerful heart. I admire you greatly, and I am a better person for my association with you.
Jolene has invited Karla Worley from Franklin, Tenn., to be the worship leader. She is a woman who knows how to sing, and she conveys warmth and a deep love for the Lord.
Stuart Calvert will lead a seminar and have moments in the general assembly. Stuart has made a name for herself by just being Stuart — no explanation needed for those who have heard her.
Regina Howell, Debbie Childers, Ann Casaday, Laurel Griffith, Jack Little, Amy and Virgil Cooper and I will lead conferences.
Like Jolene, I have studied and prayed to prepare what will help those who are going through a difficult situation in their lives. I am sure I speak for all the conference leaders and missionaries Amy and Virgil Cooper and Jack Little.
It is an awesome responsibility to be part of a program like this. To have lasting impact on lives — what a challenge!
For more details on “Women’s Weekend Away,” call 1-800-264-1225, ext. 226.
I look forward to seeing each of you. Perhaps we will have a chance to sit down and talk. I would like that.
Remember this verse, which is one of the Scriptures for the meeting: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on you own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
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