Women’s Retreat Ideas
Just returned from a women’s retreat with Southside Baptist Church, and thought you might enjoy a couple of ideas I observed there.
1) Permeated theme. My theme, “SHINE!”, was used everywhere! They prepared mini-skits for promotion in the church. For example, one lady arrives onstage laden with floodlights and Christmas lights and lanterns, etc. She states, “I heard they’re going to SHINE at the retreat, and I wanted to get a head start!” There were stars and lights and candles everywhere–nametags, ceilings, notebooks, gift bags, entryway, etc.
2) Smile Prayer. The team invited Sarah Bohrer and Heidi Hackney to lead worship–can’t beat that team! Sarah also led a sun-up devotional time outside on the patio. Her conclusion was a time of encouragement and prayer like I’ve never seen before. She asked everyone to stand silently in a large circle. As they prayed for others in the circle, they were to make eye contact and smile as they prayed silently. It was a very special time of silent (and personal) prayer for one another.
3) Photo Finish. I’ve used this idea for staff parties, but it was absolutely perfect for a ladies retreat. On the first evening of the retreat, the entire group was posed for a group photo. The next day, as ladies departed for home, they were presented with a small shine-themed gift, and a copy of the group photo. What a lovely surprise! One team member’s husband took the photos and had copies made. If budget allows, you could even pick up cute frames at the dollar store for the photos.
4) A visual promo idea. This church uses their group photos for its annual retreat promotion. They post a few group photos from previous years, labeled “Class of ‘02″ or “Class of ‘07″ and a caption, “Will you be in the ‘Class of ‘08′ Photo?”
Ladies’ retreats can be a great time of spiritual refreshment and growth, and can offer a fabulous opportunity for Christian fellowship. Southside’s planning team did a wonderful job. It’s worth the effort!