We are just back from our fall retreat! There were about 30 of us there, mostly from Alive in Christ, with some from Higher Ground Ministries (New York City) and ReCreation Ministries (Douglas, MA). We worshipped in song, heard challenging teachings on rest, Sabbath, and being seated in Christ, listened to several powerful testimonies of transformation from same-sex attraction, and had a lot of quality time just getting to know each other and share. It was beyond amazing in my opinion and definitely exceeded my expectations. But let’s hear from some others who attended (I asked them to share what they are taking away from the retreat):
“[The retreat] was encouraging on many levels. One of the blessings was to be with a group of believers all with a shared experience that doesn’t need to be the bedrock of our identity or a source of pride – as it is for so many in our culture. Yet, neither does it need to be a source of shame. It was encouraging just to exist together united by an affirming and spiritually profound identity in Christ.” An attendee from Higher Ground
“The realization that obstacles are a necessary part of life. They help strengthen you for what is ahead, builds lasting relationships, dependability and wisdom on how to navigate circumstances that come your way. To rest in Christ in all things for He is Lord of the Sabbath and He will carry me through.” Zechariah
“I love the illustration that I can’t stand and walk unless I first sit.” (in reference to the 1st teaching on Ephesians 1-2)
“This weekend is the first time I truly felt peace at a retreat. I was blessed by the conversation, the rest, and hearing stories from new friends who understand my journey deeply. That’s so uncommon for me. To be told I’m included in Christ and to be fully aware of it: what a gift!” Paul, who led the music and shared his testimony (the latter part he did last minute when one of our speakers was sick and couldn’t attend)
“It was fruitful just to spend an entire weekend with fellow believers with similar struggles as I have and to enjoy one another’s company and lift one another up. God be praised!” Steve
“That I need to give up some personal things that are holding me back from moving forward and that I need to trust God as I start and move through that process.”
“To know God’s work is done and I can rest in that (I’m not good at resting). I am His forever.” Esteban
“It’s always inspiring to hear personal testimonies, which were great! So joyful to see and enjoy the fellowship between the Boston and NYC ministries. From the opening sessions: ‘Christianity doesn’t begin with DO, but with DONE.’” Peter from NYC (the end being a quote from Watchmen Nee’s Sit, Walk, Stand)
And those are just a few of the testimonies – we couldn’t fit them all in the newsletter! Pictured above are some of the retreat attendees who were comfortable being photographed. The decision to attend a retreat of this nature is a big step of faith, as is the decision to have your photograph in the ministry newsletter. As you heard from several of the testimonies, it was powerful to hear like stories and to be reminded that we are included in the body of Christ (Ephesians 1:13), despite some having been told their struggles exclude them from God’s promises. Please pray for them all, that they would continue to rest in their position in Christ, seated with Him in the heavenly realms (Ephesians 2:6).
In the midst of a busy season, I released my 2nd book! Lessons from Joshua, about the Old Testament book of Joshua, journeys with the Israelites as they see with God’s eyes, trust in His heart, and go and take hold of the Promised Land. You can purchase a paper copy at www.learningtowalkinfreedom.com or get the Kindle on Amazon.
Your giving and prayers made this retreat and so much of what we do happen, so we cannot thank you enough! We have a shortened version of one of our trainings coming up November 6 in Pittsfield, MA, so consider joining us. You can find out more details on our website.
To Our Financial Supporters: If you would like to give a gift to the ministry, you can either send a check to us at the address below, or you can give under the “Support Us” section of our website. All gifts are tax-deductible.
Alive in Christ, 1 Park Street, Boston, MA 02108, (617) 880-9099, http://www.alive-in-christ.net