Beth, USA

During the summer of 2022, 200 women, all active Salvation Army officers (ministers) in the USA Western Territory, joined together for four days of worship, teaching and fellowship, under the theme, ‘Flourish’. This report has been prepared by Major Beth, who organised the event alongside the leadership of Women’s Ministries in the USA Western Territory.

After the challenges of the pandemic, many people who serve in positions of leadership, service and community response, have found themselves burned out and in need of retreat. Recognising the pressure their women leaders had endured during the pandemic, the USA Western officers’ retreat brought each person the opportunity to grow, to change, to adapt and to flourish! 

The weekend empowered our women officers to just be, and not to do! They were able to come and receive, instead of always being the one doing and giving through the pressures of service to others. The schedule was deliberately left with lots of space for free time and fellowship. Women enjoyed connecting with old friends and making new ones around the meal table, laughing, crying and making memories. 

The presence of the Lord was constantly felt. One officer shared how God showed up for her, ‘My experience with God did not come from the meetings, teachings or any deep profound revelations. It came from space, fellowship and a gratitude for all that went into it, even if it was not what I expected. I needed the time to fellowship, to regroup and, once again, to find my rhythm both spiritually and physically.’