Rebecca Carpenter
Contributed
Rebecca Carpenter
Nosoca Pines Ranch was the picturesque setting for the “Romance at the Ranch” weekends this past February, offering couples a retreat into nature and nurturing for the soul. The first session, held February 9-11, 2024, was conducted in English and led by the dynamic duo Roger and Latonia Schmidt. Roger, an educator from Highland Academy in Tennessee, and Latonia, a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), themed their presentations around “Living Testimony of God’s Goodness.” Their sessions, including “Beginnings,” “Who is God?” “Fingerprints of God,” “Something to Do,” and “God’s Goodness All Over Our Lives,” resonated deeply with the attendees.
Adding to the spiritual ambiance, Clint McKoy, a singer-songwriter from Arden Church, provided worship music that lifted hearts and spirits. The weekend embraced a nostalgic ’50s theme, culminating in a soda-shop styled banquet that delighted the 32 attending couples with its baskets of burgers, onion rings, and classic sodas. Attendees dressed in their best ’50s attire for their themed portraits taken before the banquet.
The following weekend, February 16-18, the Ranch hosted its Spanish-speaking guests, welcoming 67 couples for a similarly enriching experience. This session featured Efraín Duane, D.Min., LMFT, renowned for his insights and guidance. Ben Rueda, pastor, hosted this weekend with his wife, Denise, and together they ensured that the spirit of love and connection thrived throughout the weekend.
Both English and Spanish Romance at the Ranch weekends at Nosoca Pines Ranch offered moments for each spouse to share their appreciation for each other. The weekends underscored the importance of faith, love, and connection, and offered couples a cherished opportunity to grow closer together in a serene, spiritual setting.
Carolina | May 2024
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