Twenty-four women serving in sixteen countries, traveling to Melbourne from five different continents. 

The Thrive retreat attendees arrived today!

Some are here not knowing exactly what to expect, knowing only they could use the break. “It sounded like a refresher,” said one attendee, “and I’ve not done anything like this before.”

Another remarked that it felt so weird to come to an event and not have to do a thing to make it happen. 

During the next three days, Thrive wants to give each of these cross-cultural women the chance to step off that pedestal they often find themselves on. To be allowed transparency and vulnerability with other women who “get her life.” To laugh together, as well as cry. 

To give her a place where she can be real. And heal. And meet God right where she is. 

She may be struggling with pangs of guilt—for leaving her children in the care of others while she’s here, or for unfinished tasks left behind. She’s all too aware of the sacrifices that have been made for her to be here. 

She might need to be reminded of her true identity as a beloved daughter of the King. 

A good number are single, looking forward to meaningful connection with women who understand their particular brand of challenge.

Quite a few find themselves in a very low place, deeply discouraged and confused. Others might be serving from a delightful place of ministry, but no one here is without challenges. 

And that’s okay. It’s all okay. Thrive gets it. 

It really doesn’t matter where she comes from, why she’s here, or what she hopes to get from the retreat. Given that this marks Thrive’s 52nd international retreat, Thrive has a pretty good idea of what promises to bring a measure of hope and replenishment to these global workers. 

We can’t wait to begin.