We serve an extravagant and generous God, and Thrive delights in reflecting His lavish love to the global women through thoughtful gifts. Notes of encouragement and small presents are woven into the daily rhythm of the retreat, with a gift waiting at each seat every morning. Door prizes, such as essential oil kits, travel hammocks, a Kindle Fire, and more fun items, add moments of anticipation and surprise. One of the most cherished moments comes with the "Taste of Home" gifts. Before the retreat, global women are invited to share a short list of items they miss from North America. Volunteers and their communities then gather these special items and present them in beautifully prepared gift bags on the second evening. The room fills with tears, laughter, and joyful exclamations as women open their bags to find familiar treasures such as chocolate chips, Goldfish crackers, cookies, makeup, marshmallows, and more. In that moment, the global women are reminded again of the Father’s deep and personal love for them.
Some women reflected on the Taste of Home gifts:
“The joy of opening each gift and knowing someone intentionally prayed for and shopped for us is indescribable.”
“'Thank you' is not big enough to convey the deep gratitude I feel getting to take part in the Thrive retreat. I came into the retreat feeling guilty for taking time to be cared for when others on the field are doing what sometimes feels like more meaningful work… Instead of shame, I was met with the most loving, open arms, lavish gifts, and the pleasure of my Father spoken and sung over me.”
“I am in awe at how loved and cared for I have felt during the retreat, and knowing that people have given financially to make this possible makes it even more special.”
“I was so amazed by the generosity of the gifts. I feel like I received the entire contents of Aisle 7 at Target!”
Although we volunteers are keeping busy serving the global women, it has also been so fun and fulfilling to get to know the attendees, laugh with them, and be encouraged alongside them.