The excitement has been building all day! The moment for which we’ve been praying and preparing is here! Thirty-six women, serving in thirty-two agencies in twenty-three countries have safely arrived in Copper Mountain. Such a diverse group! Most are here without knowing a single other person. They will have plenty of opportunities over the next few days to make new friends.

There’s Sarah, who has been serving for 28 years in the Pacific area. She has four children, three born overseas in Australia. While she knew about Thrive and knew people who had attended the retreats, it took the encouragement of someone in her sending agency to attend, and she is here today!

Then there is Jennifer, a single physical therapist serving in Central America. She trains others in her country of service to provide basic therapy to adults and children with disabilities. She basically found out about Thrive through an online connection with a counselor. The counselor proceeded to tell her, “The first thing you need to do is attend a Thrive retreat!” So she is here today, too.

Finally there is Jade, who serves in the Caribbean. She arrived in the US just 2 days ago! She is making lots of adjustments in a short period of time. Even though her furlough is only one month long, she made attending a Thrive retreat a priority.

Each woman here has a unique story to tell of how God divinely orchestrated events to bring her to this 2023 retreat. These precious daughters of the King will be loved and pampered over the next few days. But we also know that our Father will minister to each one in His unique way. Won’t you pray for them?