Friday, December 30, 2016

Donations Gratefully Accepted

As the end of 2016 quickly approaches, 
we realize the goodness of God has also come through donations to the ministry. 
Yes we are a non profit, registered with charitable status. 

Perhaps you are looking for a last place to donate before the end of the year! 
Well, we are grateful of all donations.
 If you wish to donate by cheque, 
please make sure it is made out by Dec. 31st. 
If you wish to donate by phone, 
please call us at 204-416-3531. 
Thank you for your support of our ministry 
as we look ahead to 2017.


Monday, December 26, 2016

Some thoughts on a snowy December day




Today is Boxing Day.  We are cleaning up from a blizzard.  Lots of snow.  Outside my husband is on the bobcat cleaning the driveway which was undriveable unless you had a 4 wheel drive.  
Such is the weather here in Manitoba!  However, inside the house is warm, the tea is in supply, and the sun is shining brightly.  All is well with the world.

I have been pondering on these past almost twelve full months of this last year.... and it has been good.I am still (usually except for the odd time) the only one running the retreat which includes cleaning, making beds, grocery shopping, food prep, serving, laundry, Spiritual Direction, and the list goes on.While is is so good, it is also "full" and I am not complaining, but it is alot of work.
I am so glad that I know without a shadow of a doubt that this is what God called us to, 
and that God gives us the strength needed for each new day.
We are praying for someone to be able to come alongside, but the reality is, we are still
operating as a volunteer, and many people are not around to volunteer for two hours in between retreaters, (4-6 when clean up is done for the next ones coming) and as well, weekends are likely the hardest times to get volunteers.  (Especially in summer and well, who blames them?)

The other thing from this past year is that we decided after our first Evening of Celebration and Fundraising held last year - November 5, 2015 - that we would change it to April and skip this year.  SO plans are underway for April 2017 for our second banquet fundraiser, but in the meantime, 
the lack of a fundraiser this year will affect our "bottom line" for the ministry.
Growing pains ... :)
We continue to see God at work.  He is bringing those who need to retreat without us advertising.  I believe that God is growing not only the ministry, but my heart and Alvin's for what he has called us to.  I will be honest - I have made a good salary in a couple other occupations I had before (Early Childhood Educator/Founder and Director of an 87 space daycare centre for 25 years; and 7 and a half years as a Pastor in the church Alvin and I had been in for all our married life) and I realized that money is not everything.  This call to ministry like I have said, is hard.  I knew God called but had no idea REALLY what He was signing us up for!!  I just finished watching a movie "HILLSONG:  LET HOPE RISE" and in it there were some profound quotes, but this one really hit me:

"It's not worth it for what we are being paid.  But it's worth it for what we are doing."
- Joel Houston
I sort of feel the same way right now and would not give up this call for anything!!
Sometimes I feel that being paid would make it easier eventually
(perhaps to pay my personal bills lol) but I realize the "pay" I get from following God on this call far outceeds any $$ I could be paid!!
God knew that!!
He calls us on an adventure - and if we are willing to follow HIM - He ruins us for the ordinary!
And with those words, I will sign off!!

blessings,
joy

Tuesday, November 8, 2016

Plan to attend our 4th Annual Advent Walk through

Plan to attend - you will not be disappointed.
An intentional time to stop and reflect.  Christmas is a time that is important to do that.
In the midst of the hustle and bustle of shopping and baking and visiting and all things "good and right and important to you" it seems we don't get a chance to just sit and be.
So plan to come.
 It is open to men, women and groups.
BUT you MUST reserve a spot!!  We want to honour everyone's time!
There is no cost, but we'll never turn down a donation!!  

Sunday, March 13, 2016

Testimonials - on the blessing of retreating

Since we have asked for testimonials, and for people to share on Facebook - I will post the answers as they come in:  They have been copied and pasted in, which accounts for the difference in font, as somehow I can not change that here.  :)


Laura Wrote:

I have been blessed to retreat at Women Refreshed at the Well a few times. Each time I walk in the front door I feel welcomed and like I can take a deep breath and just relax. I love the atmosphere that encourages you to just be, to quiet your heart and rest. It is so great to go and know that you don't have to feel pressure to do anything but you can also do just about whatever you want. It's truly is a retreat that you make your own. I've brought along books, crafts, games, movies, workout clothes, and just veggin clothes. It's so lovely to not have to worry about making meals, but to know you will indulge in homemade deliciousness. One of my favourite things is curling up in the library with my Bible and journal and just being with God, if I could I'd have my quiet time there everyday! I hope to enjoy Women Refreshed at the Well many more times in the future, I always leave with a full belly and a full heart. It's a fantastic ministry and Joy's heart for women is so evident in how she cares for each one who visits!

Lisa wrote:
Women Refreshed at the Well is a unique atmosphere that has to be experienced. As soon as you walk in the front door you feel a tangible peacefulness to the house. The rooms are all beautiful and very comfortable. Every detail from the hand towels to the decor creates a sense that someone is taking care of you. I felt comfortable taking time on my own to worship and pray in vulnerability knowing it was a safe place. Anyone needing refuge would find solace there.
Thanks for all you do!

Nadine wrote: 
~ Before I ever retreated at WRATW, God knew I needed to.
I felt my soul being called to a place of rest and renewal.
Not knowing what I'd find there, I simply came with an
open mind, open heart. 
What fills both, each time I retreat, is peace, love and joy.
In the busyness of life, I do not take enough time for me.
And I realize that in denying myself, I am also denying opportunity
for God. I meet with God in the quiet moments I am caring for myself.
And I know in those moments, He is happy because I am also inviting Him to
care for me. As a caregiver in life, I need to remember that I too am in need
of care. To best care for others, I must refill reserves, rest, and restore.
WRATW is a God-blessed and filled space where I connect with myself and 
God, seek comfort and guidance, hear His voice, and feel renewed. Yes, God knew
my heart, and provided for me, when He first drew my attention to WRATW. 
He was patiently calling me and I love that He did. I, like so many others, are blessed 
to have spent time retreating in His loving care. I am thankful for WRATW and for Joy,
who showers God`s love on each person who stays. 
I look forward to retreating again and again! ~

Friday, February 26, 2016

Our birthday is coming .... testimonials wanted!!

It is hard to believe that in a little over a month - we will celebrate our third birthday.
It is hard to believe.  We are turning 3!!
Where does time go?

So what would we like from you?  Well - perhaps you could send your "testimonials" or "greetings" or share what it was you experienced while retreating here.

We would love to hear from you - please email us at womenrefreshed@gmail.com
And - please let us know if we can publish your comments here on the site, and/or on Facebook.
We appreciate it - and for each one that enters, you will be put into a draw for a DAY retreat!