Beth Bales: Unplug, Unwind, Make Your Own 'New Story' at Women's Retreat

A chance to unwind, to unplug—for just a day—from the demands of everyday life, and come together with other women, all on their own spiritual journeys.

That’s what the First Baptist Church of Geneva’s one-day Women’s Retreat offers.

Registration is continuing for the retreat, to be held from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, March 10, at First Baptist’s West Campus, 3435 Keslinger Road, Geneva.

“We view it as a chance for women to withdraw from all the things women do everyday: job, children, activities, and come together,” said Lorene Coffey, director of women’s ministries for the church. 

The retreat offers women of all ages worship, a guest speaker offering Biblical teachings to take participants deeper into their spiritual journey, beautiful surroundings and a chance “to be fed in a way they’re not, when dealing with day-to-day life and business,” Coffey said. 

Each woman has her own, unique life story, of course. And though many women’s life circumstances include a measure of sorrow, pain or suffering, the retreat offers a new perspective.

“The way we view our circumstances can change even if the circumstances themselves stay the same,” Coffey said. “The retreat equips women to have a new perspective and attitude. It’s a very positive and uplifting day for women to enjoy.”

This year’s speaker will deliver a powerful truth, that one small change can have profound effects, that “a change of perspective changes everything.” Jan Silvious will discuss “Same Life, New Story,” using modern-day anecdotes and Biblical character stories “to bring you out of the land of what is, and victoriously into the land of what can be.”

Silvious is an author, speaker and counselor, who encourages and challenges women to grow and change. She has been a plenary speaker for Precept Ministries’ National Women’s Convention, Moody’s Women’s Conferences and Moody’s Founder’s Week. She is a regular presence on radio and national call-in shows and has written 11 books, including Big Girls Don’t Whine and Fool-Proofing Your Life.

Cost of the retreat is $30 and includes both a continental breakfast and lunch. Scholarships are available. Registration is non-refundable, but is transferable. 

The retreat can accommodate just more than 320 people; already, more than 200 people have registered. And last year’s retreat was a full house, with no walk-ins able to be accommodated.

“We encourage people to sign up ahead of time, because we do sell out,” Coffey said. 

Women may register online, at the church’s East Campus office at 2300 South St., or on Sunday mornings at either campus. People may call 630-232-7068, Ext. 160, for more information.