United Church of God

Portland Women’s Enrichment Weekend

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Portland Women’s Enrichment Weekend

Those who came hailed from Washington, Oregon, Idaho and California. The theme of the weekend was “Blessings in the Fabric of Our Lives.” Becky Hornor spoke Friday evening about how we should focus on blessings in our lives even in the midst of trials.

Ken Loucks and Ben Light spoke at Sabbath services. Ken Loucks spoke about compassion. His dad and his mother-in-law passed away within a short period of time. Ben Light spoke about some of the trials that he and his family endured and how God richly blessed him and his family. One of the scriptures he read was 1 Peter 4:12-13, which says, “Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you, but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings.”

After services, Nancy Corbett gave Val Deininger’s presentation since Val was sick and couldn’t attend the Women’s Weekend. The presentation was about trials and focusing on blessings in the midst of trials. Lauren Kelly, Nikki Johnson and Cheryl Regnier spoke about blessings in the midst of trials.

After the Sabbath was over the ladies had a silent auction in tandem with hymn-singing and coloring. The auction raised $1,785, all of which will be donated to the Good Works program. 

Ruby Scruggs, Tanya Winger and Sandy Cafourek introduced speakers with a lot of verve and personality.

On Sunday Patty Sexton spoke about how we all need people in our lives, and we are blessed to have each other. We lean on each other and focus on our blessings even when we have trials. Sharon Browning spoke about how she and her husband moved from Washougal, Washington, to Kentucky to be closer to their daughter Lisa McKinney and her husband and kids as well as their son David. She spoke about how she and her husband have had success in finding their niche in their new congregation. Tammy Kelly led the ladies in putting together cookies-in-a-jar, which were up for sale. The proceeds of the sales were donated to food that would be made for brethren for various reasons such as sickness, a new baby, etc.

Wonderful special music was presented throughout the weekend. A ladies choir sang “Be Thou My Vision” for special music during services. Tammy Kelly and Dawn Cooper sang a song called “On Eagles’ Wings.” Amanda Richards and Rachel Richards sang “Just Be Held.” Kathleen Kelly, Abi Volk and Katlyn Whynaucht sang “Blessings.” God’s Holy Spirit was at work during the weekend. It was relaxing and peaceful. It was an inspiring and spiritually-rewarding weekend.