Today is THE day! We traveled, we prepared, we prayed, and we are finally ready to welcome 35 attendees to Cape Town. They’ve come from 12 different countries and 27 sending organizations for a time of rest, refreshment, introspection, and laughter. Together, they represent 472 combined years of service. For most, this is their first Thrive retreat, but a few have attended a retreat in the past and recognize the value of getting away for a time of respite.

The women have come from as close as a 45-minute drive away to as far away as Hungary. God has made a way through funding, extended visas, encouragement from husbands, friends, sending churches, and more to bring these women here. One attendee’s husband even signed her up and filled out the questionnaire on her behalf as a surprise gift! Another attendee shared that she was initially hesitant to sign up. After receiving encouragement from three different sources, she sensed that God was reaching out to her and concluded He must have something for her here.

Many of the women serve in leadership roles in their service areas and are especially grateful for the opportunity to step back and be led in worship rather than lead it themselves. Other women have recently undergone transitions or are anticipating future transitions, hoping to find a space to achieve closure and move into new opportunities with energy and hope. Then there are the moms with young children who need a break and to be reminded that their roles are vitally important to God and to their families.

Women have already made new friends, laughed together, enjoyed a fabulous meal, and experienced an environment that allows them to set aside the noise of daily life, to breathe, and to hear from God. We are off to a great start!