At the beginning of September, in the heart of Celina, Ohio, twenty women gathered together for a Beauty for Ashes retreat. Each carrying their own unique burdens and longings, they all shared the same purpose: to encounter the healing power of the Holy Spirit.
The retreat was set to create a sacred space where the Holy Spirit could minister our hearts, addressing the wounds of pain, loss, doubt, and unforgiveness. We all came seeking refuge from the weight that had clouded our hearts. For some of us, our identities had been fractured, and our spirits were weary. Yet, amidst the brokenness, there was a palpable hunger for something more—a yearning for the divine touch that could restore our souls.We were all united by our desire for healing and restoration.
The women, hungry for their portion from God, were ready to do their part in the healing process. As we gathered together, a palpable sense of anticipation filled the air. This retreat was a place where they could be vulnerable (some for the first time in their lives), open, honest, and a place to be supported by a community of women who not only understood each other struggles, but also didn’t place any judgement or condemnation.
For 3 days, the place became a sanctuary, a sacred space where the Holy Spirit could freely minister to their wounded souls. As these women gathered, they created an atmosphere of trust, pouring out their hearts before God and one another. The weight of their burdens seemed to lighten, replaced by a sense of peace, rest and understanding.
As the retreat unfolded, the Holy Spirit moved powerfully among us. His presence filled the room, creating a sacred space where deep emotional and spiritual healing could take place. We shared our stories, our tears, and our hopes, finding solace and connection in the shared experiences of others.
Through worship, prayer, biblical stories and testimonies, we were reminded of God’s unwavering love and His desire to redeem our lives. He met us where we were, offering grace, forgiveness, and a fresh perspective on our circumstances.
God poured out His love and healing balm upon their hearts. God met each of us where we were, revealing Himself in a fresh and personal way. His whispers of love and acceptance penetrated our deepest wounds, healing the places that had been scarred by pain and doubt.
As the retreat drew to a close, a sense of peace, renewal and joy was palpable. The Holy Spirit had indeed given us a crown of beauty instead of our ashes. He had drenched our hearts with His oil of joy, replacing our mourning with a garment of praise. God revealed Himself to us in a fresh new way, whispering His name and lavishing us with His love. We left the retreat not only healed but also empowered and equipped to face the challenges ahead with renewed strength and hope. We carried with us the knowledge that we are not alone, that we are loved, and that we are worthy of healing and restoration.
The Beauty for Ashes retreat in Columbus, Ohio, was a testament to the power of God’s love, the power of God’s healing touch, the beauty of sisterhood and the transformative impact of community. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of this incredible retreat. It was a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is hope, there is restoration, and there is beauty to be found.
If you are seeking healing, restoration, and a deeper connection with God, I encourage you to reach out! Let’s plan a retreat with the woman in your community.
YOU can be a beacon of hope for the woman around you!
