Women’s Ministries Retreat Revived

SHREVEPORT, LA. – After several years without a women’s ministries retreat, organizers wondered if women would come out for a gathering again. Registration started slowly, and at one point, it seemed the retreat might have to be canceled. On her knees in prayer, Arkansas-Louisiana Women’s Ministries Director Marjorie Belizaire asked for direction. At that moment, she heard nine dings on her computer, signaling nine new registrations.

Thirty days of prayer led up to the retreat, and God multiplied the numbers, with 105 women attending.

Sept. 19-21, 2025, found the Shreveport South Seventh-day Adventist Church beautifully decorated as sisters in Christ enjoyed a warm meal and placed petitions on a prayer chain. Testimonies set the tone for the weekend.

Keynote speaker Sandralee Mars, Texas Conference Women’s Ministries director, reminded everyone that true empowerment begins at Jesus’ feet.

The Sabbath morning devotion from Andrews University Professor Shannon Trecartin spoke about empowering and encouraging others. Trecartin shared her own powerful testimony of God’s sustaining grace after her husband became a quadriplegic.

Breakout sessions included The Praying Woman, End It Now Training, Leadership Today and Wired Your Way.

Meanwhile, women ages 14-25 gathered with Tamara Bird, who spoke about the importance of being empowered early in life and of recognizing healthy versus unhealthy relationships. Beth Grissom of the Carolina Conference led a powerful Bible study, showing how the simple word “with” changes everything and reminding participants that God is with us through every circumstance.

Sabbath afternoon included additional breakout sessions, networking, prayer and a full concert by Jennifer LaMountain. Her closing song, “No More Night,” moved many to tears, preparing hearts for the solemn anointing service. Surrounded by candles, Arkansas-Louisiana Conference President Jeff Villegas invited the women to surrender their lives to God, releasing their burdens as they came forward to receive anointing. Many wept as they felt the Holy Spirit’s power.

On Sunday morning, Bird spoke once more, reminding participants that their past doesn’t define them—God’s calling does. The weekend closed with a collective prayer circle. The women left empowered by His presence and ready to return to their homes, churches and communities.

By Marjorie Belizaire
Women’s Ministries Director