Contributed
Courtney Herod
Courtney Herod
Courtney Herod
This past October, women in the Carolina Conference gathered for two weekends at Nosoca Pines Ranch, focusing on spiritual growth, connection, and transformation.
The first weekend featured the “Fullness of Joy Retreat,” where attendees were inspired by uplifting messages of hope shared by Liz Pule, guest pastor from Canada. The retreat offered delicious food, beautiful weather, and unique activities, including Bible journaling workshops. However, the highlight of the weekend was prayer. Sabbath afternoon the prayer chapel overflowed with women seeking special prayer and anointing. Determined to meet the spiritual needs of all in attendance, elders and pastors stayed late into the night to pray and anoint each woman. The experience underscored the importance of prayer, and the powerful role anointing plays in spiritual healing.
The following weekend, Hispanic women filled Nosoca Pines Ranch to capacity, with every bed and campsite occupied. The retreat, themed “A Woman After God’s Own Heart,” brought together more than 420 women from North and South Carolina, October 11-13, 2024. Decorations set a festive tone, but the joy and enthusiasm of the attendees were the weekend’s true highlights. The program featured powerful speakers, inspiring music, and a special track for teens. Churches from across the Conference contributed with meaningful prayer segments and dramas that reinforced the theme.
Sabbath morning’s baptisms were a highlight as three women publicly committed their lives to Jesus and joined the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The pool was surrounded by women singing and celebrating their sisters in Christ. When Devin Lily, pastor, extended an invitation for others to give their hearts to Jesus, many stepped forward, adding to the day’s spiritual impact.
In addition to the baptisms, attendees enjoyed hayrides and an evening gala where churches showcased outfits made from recyclable materials. The retreat also addressed mental health challenges, with testimonies and presentations designed to provide practical support. To continue this focus, Janet Paulino, Hispanic women’s ministries coordinator, has initiated monthly Zoom meetings with professional counselors and psychologists to address mental health and plan for next year’s retreat.
Beth Grissom, women’s ministries director for the Carolina Conference, emphasized that these retreats are about more than fellowship — they are part of a broader evangelism effort. Each year, women who are not members of the Church attend and leave transformed. Hearts are moved, decisions are made for Christ, and lives are changed.
Women in the Carolina Conference continue to work diligently to share the Gospel with neighbors, friends, and coworkers. These retreats are a testament to the impact of connection, prayer, and evangelism in spreading the love of Jesus.
Carolina | March 2025
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