“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” – Matthew 11:28-30 Message Translation
On Thursday, May 19, nine women from Grace loaded up in a van for a trip to the Mo-Ranch Women’s Conference. My mom flew from Georgia and met us there. Mo-Ranch is a Presbyterian Conference Center of the Synod of the Sun and is located in Hunt, Texas.
We spent Thursday night in Lawton, Oklahoma, and arrived at Mo on Friday afternoon in time to get registered and into our house before dinner. The key verse for the weekend was Matthew 11:28-30 that is above.
Our keynote speaker, who spoke Friday night and Saturday morning, was Sarah Bessey. She is an author and frequent conference speaker. Shelli Latham, the president of the Omaha Presbyterian Seminary foundation, was our worship leader. She preached on Saturday night and Sunday morning. Both women presented thoughtful and powerful messages.
On Saturday, in addition to keynote and worship, we enjoyed workshops and free time. Many from our group napped during the free time and a few ventured down to the Guadalupe River to swim and canoe. Lots of us enjoyed walking along the river during the weekend.
Sunday morning came with one more chance to attend a workshop (or take a walk) and closing worship. We loaded up the van after worship and made the long drive back to Wichita. While taxing to be in a van for so long, spirits remained high. The group was grateful for the prayers of the congregation and the gift of resources that made this possible.
Thanks,
Catherine NB
MAY