Why Urban Retreats Matter

I never cease to be amazed by the strength, dignity and perseverance of women who have endured much hardship in this lifetime. I get to know many of these remarkable women through our urban leadership retreats. Some of these women have suffered loss, abuse and loneliness, yet they have become pillars of strength and encouragement to their churches and communities.

Sometimes I wish we could do more to help them carry the load. I know our retreats make a difference, but sometimes I wonder, “What can a mere weekend away do in the scheme of things?”

I was reminded that God uses even the simple things like a retreat-themed t-shirt to help these precious women remember that they are not alone and they are strong in the Lord.

Vicki, one of our faithful retreat participants, recently lost her adult son to a drug overdose. Vicki is a loving mom and grandma who has done so much to help take care of her family and grandchildren. In the midst of this tragedy, Vicki has chosen to stand strong and be fierce in her faith. A few days after her son’s death, she posted this picture on Facebook where she is wearing our retreat “Fierce: Women of the Word” t-shirt. This image speaks volumes of why urban retreats matter. They matter because of women like Vicki. Women who embody what it means to be fierce, empowered woman of God- even in life’s darkest moments.

When our women wear these shirts, it is a visual reminder that they are not alone. They are surrounded by a sisterhood of like-minded women who are united through their faith in Christ. They are reminded that they are stronger than they feel during a moment of crisis or sorrow. They also know that they are a part of a “tribe” that will love them and pray for them.

I am so honored to serve these women through our retreat ministry. May we all be FIERCE through the power of Christ working in us and through us.

Originally posted on Tina's blog.

Read more from Tina Busenitz.