ReachOut at Minsteracres 2016

reachout at Minsteracres, April 2016

I was one of sixteen lovely ladies from Selkirk who were privileged to spend a weekend away together at Ministeracres Retreat Centre in Consett. With the weather throwing snow, hail and rain on us as we drove down, we were not sure of what we were letting ourselves in for. Our excitement soon built when we arrived at the most beautiful setting, a grand old house built in 1750 surrounded by a 110 acre estate filled with fields of dancing lambs, lovely gardens and many different paths to explore.

What an amazing setting to just draw aside and spend time with God and each other. Through the weekend we attended some sessions led by Elizabeth and Sister Therese and all found ourselves challenged and humbled as we personally wrestled with God’s immeasurable mercy for each one of us.

The most amazing thing about this weekend away was that all the ladies represented four different churches in and around Selkirk. From the moment we arrived the corridors and rooms were filled with laughter even to the point that the staff were saying to each other: “We are going to have fun with this group”. There was such a sense of unity and we were able to get to know each other as we joined together in the most amazing meals lovingly prepared by the volunteer staff, joining in walks around the premises, in times of quiet or being creative and spending time worshipping in song.

Little gifts of love appeared all around us on our journey reminding us of God’s love which often catches us unaware.

I am so grateful to God for this time away to focus on Him and to experience His mercy on us. I am grateful for all the friendships made and to return home with the deep knowledge that we are all daughters of a King, the very treasure of His heart.