Theme Title                                        

Know God More (see logo below)

Based On

Proverbs 14

Description

We are trying to call all of our women to prayer and renewal this year, and thought this summed our mission up quite well. Click logo below for larger view.

Theme Title

The Spirit of Loveliness (taken from Emilie Barnes' book/same title)

Based On

Phil. 4:8 "...whatever is lovely...think on these things."

Description

Quarterly Events will be "The Spirit of Loveliness"-Women's Conference "The Spirit of Hospitality"-Women's Tea "The Spirit of Celebration"-Women's Day (Sunday with luncheon)- w/Jennifer Rothschild "The Spirit of Godliness"-Women's Prayer Retreat.

Theme Title

Straight From the Heart

Based On

Ephesians 3:17

Description

Drape the stage with fabric and decorate it with flowers. Hang a big heart with the title of the conference on it. Decorate the bathrooms with flowers and pretty smelling lotions.

Theme Title

Fitting It All Together

Based On

Description

Construct a crossword puzzle to be handed out as an icebreaker. Have participants sign their name on the completed crossword puzzle. Number completed signed crossword puzzles. Have guest speaker pick numbers which match with the completed crossword puzzles. These would be the winners of the door prizes. For decorations: fill flower pots with puzzle pieces, place puzzle pieces on the table linens, create a huge welcome sign made of puzzle pieces, place puzzle pieces on banners and decorate program with puzzle pieces. Coordinate same color scheme throughout to ensure some sort of continuity.

Theme Title

Taste and see that the Lord is good.

Based On

Matthew 6:33

Description

Use watermelons for decor. Make watermelon slice name tags out of craft foam (use red and green foam and black paint pens to make seeds at the bottom). For luncheon, have terracotta pots with bows around it and gardening tools inside it with watermelon packet seeds for the center piece. Use these centerpieces as door prizes.

Theme Title

Heart to Heart

Based On

Description

Purchase wood cutouts of small hearts. Paint them red and hot glue pins on the back. Have die-cut heart shapes that have already been cut in half. Make sure they are cut in different shapes so that there will only be one match for each half. Have each lady pick up half and find the other lady who has her match. This will be her retreat sister. Upon leaving the retreat, they will exchange name tags and this will be a reminder to pray for her.

Theme Title

Turning Hurts into Halos and Scars into Stars

Based On

Romans 1:12 "I want us to help each other with the faith we have...Your faith will help me and my faith will help you."

Description

Theme for Springs of Lunch Brunch. Have ladies share their testimonies, "scars from life". Get hostess for each table to bring own china, etc.

Theme Title

The Fragrance of His Beauty

Based On

The woman who anointed Jesus with precious ointment.

Description

Song suggestion: "How Beautiful...". Prepare gifts of fragrance to give away.

Theme Title

Hats Off to Mom

Based On

Description

Event: Mother/Daughter Banquet for Mother's Day. Have men of church do all the work--cook, serve and clean-up meal. Use hats for decorations. Take pictures of each mother and daughter and give it to them as party favors.

Theme Title

Catch the Vision--and See the Full Picture

Based On

Description

Decorate using a sunflower theme. The program consisted of "Can you envision a women's ministry?" (what is it?), "the dawning of a vision" (where it all began), & "the vision continues" (how can you be involved?). Each Ministry Team Coordinator gave an explanation of that team; the women were then given an opportunity to sign up for the different ministry team.

Theme Title

Counting the Days

Based On

Ephesians 5:15,16 "Be careful how you walk...making the most of your time...".

Description

Type: Holiday Brunch. Decorate for the fall, Thanksgiving and Christmas using different vignettes for various occasions. Have program focus on holiday cooking, food presentation, decorating, and entertaining... being the very best you can be in your Christian home. Conclude program with "The Legend of Candy Cane", which presents the Gospel, giving women time to make a commitment to Christ. Favor: candy cane with scripture verse tied by ribbon; recipe handouts; holiday project patterns.

Theme Title

Set My Feet on Your Path, Lord

Based On

Description

Type: Church's women's retreat. Use footprint dinner placemat, an assortment of shoes as centerpieces with flowers and eucalyptus coming out of them. Have everyone bring old tennis shoes to decorate.

Theme Title

Woman at the Well

Based On

Description

Type: Church's Women's Retreat.

Theme Title

Fan the Flame

Based On

Description

Type: Church's Women's Retreat.

Theme Title

Live in the Light

Based On

Description

Use lighthouse decorations, pins and door prizes. Talks can include: know the light (evangelistic), walk in the light (forgiveness), storms of life and how to prepare, and shine the light (lighthouses of prayer for sphere of influence.

Theme Title

Know God More

Based On

Proverbs 14

Description

Theme Title

R.O.W. (Relationships of Women)

Based On

Examples of women and their relationship through Scripture. Mary with Jesus, Mary with Joseph, Sarah/Abraham, etc.

Description

Have a picture of two women, each in a separate rowboat. Have one who is rowing hard, sweat dripping, so you can tell she was exhausted. Have the other one sat with her nose in the air and her boat tied to the first one. The idea was that women often fell as if they are responsible for the feelings of everyone around them and they keep trying to row theirs and every one else's boat in order to keep afloat. Favors: tiny row boats with appropriate Scripture written on paper encouraging the women to build their relationship with Christ.

Theme Title

Garden Party

Based On

Description

Ask a lady from a local nursery to come and give tips on gardening and flower growing. For the meal, serve chicken tender salad in clay pots (lined with plastic wrap, of course). After the meal, give each lady the experience of potting her own flower.

Theme Title

The Beauty of Holiness

Based On

Description

Type: Women's retreat.

Theme Title

Seasons Of the Heart

Based On

Description

Type: Women's retreat.

Theme Title

Bud, Bloom, and Grow/Bloom Where You Are Planted

Based On

Description

Type: Women's retreat.

Theme Title

Soup Supper & Recipe Exchange

Based On

Psalms 107:9 "For He satisfies those who are thirsty, and the hungry He fills with good things.

Description

Begin event in early afternoon. Ask each woman to bring something to add to the soup: potatoes, carrots, corn, rice, seasonings, etc., and also one of their favorite recipes. Centerpieces and decorations can consist of water fountains, baskets of fruit, breadbaskets, recipe boxes, and mini cookbooks, cookie cutters, etc.

Theme Title

Angelic Evening

Based On

Psalms 91:11 "For He will give His angels charge of you to guard you in all your ways".

Description

Ask each woman to wear clothing or jewelry with angels on them. Have the speaker talk about the works of angels and share many miraculous stories. Centerpieces, decorations, food: Angel food cake, strawberries and whip cream; sweet punch & coffee; angel treetop centerpieces; angel making crafts; angel cookie bake.

Theme Title

Get Hooked on the Spirit

Based On

Proverbs 17:22 "A cheerful heart is a good medicine, but a downcast spirit dries up the bones". Philippians 4:6 "Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication and thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God".

Description

Have the even encompass serenity, prayer, illuminating the positive, compassion, and gratitude. End the event with a circle group prayer (it has proven to be very spiritually uplifting). Centerpieces/Decorations: Candles, index cards with incredibly funny jokes/comic strips; topiary trees, ribbon and lace, "pamper me" gift exchange; Christian music; hearts.

Theme Title

Living on the Edge of Tomorrow

Based On

Psalm 119:89

Description

Type: Retreat.

Theme Title

Garden of Joy

Based On

Book of Philippians

Description

Type: Retreat. Decorate each table with a decorated flower pot. Fill each pot with pens, wrapped up with floral tape with an artificial flower taped on top. As door prizes use: flower/gardening stationary, decorated clay pots, wreaths with sunflowers, apron with decorated flowers, angels made out of clay pots. Give each person a folder decorated with gardening symbols in which to write notes.

Theme Title

Go for the Gold

Based On

Description

Use an Olympic theme for the decorations.

Theme Title

Thou wilt make known to me the path of life...

Based On

Psalm 16:11

Description

Type: Women's Retreat. Use a graphic of a path into the distance and at the end a cross on all posters, folders, etc. Hear of the many different paths women of the church had taken in the past and learn how to follow the path Christ has provided for us.

Theme Title

Fall Into Fellowship

Based On

Description

Use fall leaves, gourds, pumpkins, horn of plenty.

Theme Title

Spring Fling

Based On

Description

Have a Spring hat contest. Use lots of Spring flowers for decorations. Make favors by wrapping Bic pens in green florist tape with a small silk flower sticking out of the end.

Theme Title

Walking Worthy

Based On

II Thess. 1:11-12

Description

Have women speakers who live in high stress and high profile careers that are committed to the Lord. Favors: little resin shoes that you are seeing now that are considered collectibles.

Theme Title

A new EWE for the new year

Based On

Description

Do makeovers and talk about being made over in God's image. Or discuss being sheep and all that goes along with that theme.

Theme Title

Love in a Shoebox

Based On

Description

Type: Mother/Daughter Luncheon. Decorations: Shoeboxes on tables, with flowers, cellophane & tissue inside. Collect shoeboxes. Have congregation bring personal hygiene products to church as a donation for those in need. After lunch, set the young girls up with art supplies. Make personal cards for those in need. Have the women sort through all the collected items and fill the shoeboxes. Inside each shoebox insert a Christian book or Scripture verses. Ship these relief supplies to those in need.

Theme Title

A Quiet Encounter

Based On

Psalm 46:10

Description

Type: Women's Retreat. Decorations: everything in coffee motif. Favors: Decorate each bed with a coffee mug with assorted hot chocolate packets, coffee, mints, etc. After the last speaking session, ask all women to leave the dining area. Cover the tables with fancy cloths, and a variety of candles, as well as dried leaves, pods, ferns, whatever outdoorsy thing you can find. Put candles on the window sills, and any other place that looks good. When it's time for dinner, light all the candles, turn off the lights and put on some instrumental music.

Theme Title

Building Your House

Based On

Proverbs 14:1 - The wise woman builds her house . . .

Description

Type: Weekend Women's Retreat. Include: Chocolates in the shapes of hand tools (hammers, saws, etc), handmade and painted bird houses at each table (bird houses were also for sale). > bookmarks, and the Proverbs 14:1 scripture on handmade easels held > together by twigs. Workbooks containing general information, schedule, > biblical principles, quiet time study, resource list, worship songs, > note pages, etc. A skit was also performed to the story of the 3 little > pigs.

Theme Title

Building Your House

Based On

Proverbs 14:1 - The wise woman builds her house . . .

Description

Use chocolates in the shapes of hand tools (hammers, saws, etc), handmade and painted bird houses at each table (bird houses were also for sale), bookmarks, and the Proverbs 14:1 scripture on handmade easels held together by twigs. Workbooks containing general information, schedule, biblical principles, quiet time study, resource list, worship songs, note pages, etc. Perform the story of the 3 little pigs.

Theme Title

Proverbs 31 Woman

Based On

Description

Make bookmarks that say "more precious than rubies" and have red glitter heart stickers on them. Laminate them and hole punch the top and use yarn and red beads to dangle about 3 inches. Also laminate on different colored paper the proverbs 31 sayings to hang on the wall for wall decorations. Give out little wallet cards with the following saying "trust me" I have everything under control, Jesus.

Theme Title

Fruit from the Spirit

Based On

Galatians

Description

List each fruit on a different colored paper for the wall decorations. For each of the women, do an individual sheet with the fruit of the spirit saying & a bookmark. For table deco use a different tea cup & saucer at each place setting with teapots of hot water for coffee or tea. Print invites on stationary with fancy china settings in the background. You might even want to dress in fruits in do a small play.

Theme Title

A Home Fit For The King

Based On

Description

Lessons on how to have a Godly home.

Theme Title

God Is In Control Party

Based On

Description

Stepping Stone Of Life.

Theme Title

Lunch With The Lamb

Based On

Description

How to be godly wives, helpers and mothers.

Theme Title

Round Up With The Redeemer

Based On

Description

Topic was on the "Frazzled Female".

Theme Title

Fit For The Father Bootcamp

Based On

Description

God's Army vs. the World's Army.

Theme Title

Feed, Fish and Follow

Based On

Description

Use outdoor things.

Theme Title

On Fire for God

Based On

Revelation 2:4

Description

Theme Title

Being Last

Based On

Matthew 18:1-5

Description

Theme Title

Gossip

Based On

James 3:3-12

Description

Theme Title

Bitterness

Based On

Ephesians 4:25-32

Description

Theme Title

Outreach from Within

Based On

2 Chronicles 7:14

Description

Theme_Title

The Bride of Christ

Based_On

Song of Solomon - God loves us with an everlasting and passionate love

Description

Decorate with anything that will bring the theme of marriage, love, commitment, to the scene. Toille and ivy. Potted plants, candles. If possible, add topiaries made from clay pots that have been painted, with silk flower bouquets on top of long dowel rods wrapped in brown floral tape. Add a bow of an organza ribbon to the top letting the tendrils of the ribbon flow freely down the stem.

Encourage ladies to come in their wedding dresses. If that is impractical, ask several of your committee members or chose 6-7 ladies to wear their wedding dress, complete with veils. Or, you could just borrow the dresses and hang them up around the room. Serve tea sandwiches or go all out with a luncheon. Of course, a wedding cake would be wonderful to have on hand. Maybe you could borrow or rent one of the sample cakes bakeries have made of cardboard to show their clients.

The point though, is that we are the Bride of Christ. His chosen ones and it is then our pleasure to serve Him with our whole hearts.

Think about the preparation we went through in becoming a bride. We dedicated ourselves to being the best we could be especially for that day when we would finally see Him at the end of the aisle.

So, too there is a preparedness - an end in mind when we walk toward Him throughout our lives.

Talk about covenant relationship, respect, passionate love (not sexual) yet, intimate love and interest in who he is. Think about and compare the early relationship we had with our own spouses. What did we expect from them? How did we respond to even their voice, their touch. Now how is Christ even better than that! He does speak to us, He does touch our lives. Jesus is faithful unlike husbands can be, He never disappoints -- always has our best interest in mind--in fact, gives Himself to us wholly and completely - everyday, as He makes intercession to the Heavenly Father on our behalf. Wow! What a bridegroom!

Submitted_by

veenstra@mich.com

Theme_Title

We're Better Together in Christ

Based_On

I Corinthians 12:6-7

Description

Weekend retreat. Woman were asked ahead of time to prepare and share what God had been showing them in the various Bible studies offered to them.

Theme_Title

The Diligent Heart

Based_On

Prov. 4:23: "Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of its springs the issues of life".

Theme_Title

Growing Deep in the Garden of God

Based_On

I Peter 3:15

Description

Use a garden-type atmosphere.

Theme_Title

Growing Where God planted you

Based_On

Jeremiah 17:7-8 "We are to be planted by water, sending out roots, leaves always green, no worries in year of drought, never failing to bear fruit."

Description

Use garden seed packets at the tables for centerpieces with miniature garden tools and watering cans. Use different silk flowers at each table.

Theme_Title

A Day in God's laundry mat!

Based_On

Ephesians 5:27He cleanses us, washes us with the water of His word, without stain, no wrinkles.

> Washes us with the water of His word > Without stain > No wrinkles

Description

Use clothespins for name tags. Have empty containers of starch, laundry soap, stain remover as decorations. Set up and ironing board and have baskets of laundry sitting around it. String a clothesline if you can. Talk about the process of God putting us through a washing machine, tumbling in the dryer with heat applied and how he irons out our wrinkles.

Submitted_by

Theme_Title

His Finishing Touch

Based_On

Philippians 1:6 Being confident of this very thing that He who has begun a good work in you will be faithful to complete it until the day of Christ Jesus.

Description

Quilting, sewing basket, quilt name tags, individual sewing kits, The speaker focus is that we are all uniquely designed but God fits us together to make something beautiful.

Submitted_by

Katy Laulo (klaulo@hotmail.com) Kingman, AZ.

Theme_Title

Backwards Night

Based_On

Jeremiah 7:24 "But they did not listen or pay attention; instead, they followed the stubborn inclinations of their evil hearts. THEY WENT BACKWARD AND NOT FORWARD.

Also, Phil. 3: 13..."Forgetting those things which are BEHIND.."

Description

Start the New Year off backwards!! That's right Backwards!! 1. Do the entire program in reverse. 2. Ladies have to wear their clothes backwards and inside out. (so, the underwear is on the outside, and a prize goes to the most outlandish) 3. As ladies arrive, they have to enter in the back of the building and at the end of the program exit out the front. 4. As they are signing in, the greeters greet with a "goodbye, God Bless you, hope you had a good time". 5. Played several backwards games. 6. Divided the ladies into four groups, (or depending on how many ladies you have) In order to find the group that you belong to, you had to make the sound of an animal (which you were given when you came in the back door) all of the ladies were in the room, and all at once you had to say the name backwards,...of course. ie instead of bow-wow you had to say wow-bow, instead of moooo, you said ooooommm...you get the picture, I'm sure. Then the four different groups competed against each other...backwards... backwards relay races, remember the last one is always the winners. 7. We started the night off with a closing prayer. 8. We ended the night "greeting", and "welcomed any first time guest". 9. You have to think of this event as totally backwards.

It was a huge success...the ladies are still talking about it. A night they will never forget. It made them realize that you cannot go forward in a New Year going backwards, but to go forward with God you have to listen and pay attention!..And of course Forgetting the past....

Submitted_by

Sherry Brooks P. O. Box 2586 Augusta, GA 30903

Theme_Title

"Make Me a Blessing"

Based_On

the hymn - "Make Me a Blessing"

Description

Women's Retreat, first half - how God prepares us to be a blessing, second half - how to be a blessing

Theme_Title

Simple Reflections: Images of God's Love

Based_On

But we Christians have no veil over our faces; we can be mirrors that brightly reflect the glory of the Lord. 2 Corinthians 3:18

Description

Women's Retreat. Use mirrors for decorations.

Submitted_by

cindak@prodigy.net Prospect, Kentucky

Theme_Title

Week-End in the Potter's Hand

Based_On

Isaiah 64:8

Description

Allowing the Potter to mold up into His likeness. Annual week-end retreat. Name tags: small 1" clay pots with silk flower and grass; pin on back; name on front. Centerpieces: Friday night: 6" clay pots with hand cookies for ladies to take to room Friday night. Saturday: pots were filled with hand care items (lotion, nail polish, files, nail brushes, hand sanitizers, etc); used as door prizes later in the day. Program by Anita Renfro. Used 30 min. film "Potter Hands" from the Passion Play in Arkansas. Friday night was check in and desserts and coffee with intro to speaker. Saturday morning breakfast buffet, and sandwich buffet with speaker doing program and music.

Submitted_by

Carol Turner; 1st Baptist Church of Deer Park Texas cturner@ems.jsc.nasa.gov

Theme_Title

Week-End in the Potter's Hand

Based_On

Isaiah 64:8

Description

Allowing the Potter to mold us into His likeness. Annual week-end retreat. Name tags: small 1" clay pots with silk flower and grass; pin on back; name on front. Centerpieces: Friday night: 6" clay pots with hand cookies for ladies to take to room Friday night. Saturday: pots were filled with hand care items (lotion, nail polish, files, nail brushes, hand sanitizers, etc); used as door prizes later in the day. Program by Anita Renfro. Used 30 min. film "Potter Hands" from the Passion Play in Arkansas. Friday night was check in and desserts and coffee with intro to speaker. Saturday morning breakfast buffet, and sandwich buffet with speaker doing program and music.

Submitted_by

Carol Turner; 1st Baptist Church of Deer Park Texas cturner@ems.jsc.nasa.gov

Theme_Title

Come as You Are ... Leave Refreshed in the Spirit!

Based_On

Psalm 23: 1-3 (AMP)

Description

24 hour retreat held at church campground in Ozark mountains in Tahlequah, OK. Focus on renewal, fellowship and prayer. Emphasis on getting to know someone new and spending time with God apart from distractions of everyday life. For noon meal on Saturday sat by birthday month, had index cards on tables to write down blessings in our lives. Opportunity was given to stand and share your blessings at end of meal -- was a wonderful time of sharing. Ended with sundown communion service.

Submitted_by

NICKELSBK@aol.com, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma

Theme_Title

Serenade of Love. . .The Divine Romance

Based_On

Zeph. 3:17 -- Book: The Sacred Romance

Description

This was for a Retreat. God is the "Ageless Romancer," we are His "Beloved." Women may understand their relationship with God as a Father, a Friend, a Master, but as a Lover? We used music and red roses to tie in the musical theme. We promoted the retreat by handing out "valentines" that said: "Beloved, I have missed you! When can we rendezvous?" God The ladies received a red shiny bag when they checked in at the retreat that had a booklet with pages for taking notes, all the songs for the worship/praise times, scriptures of God's love, plus very short stories by the ladies of a time when then really felt God's love. They were encouraged to recall not only a time of tragedy, but times of joy, peace, strength, etc. The bag also contained "Dove" chocolate "Promise" candies, a vial to take home a red rose, heart-shaped eraser, etc.. Our speaker encapsulated the book "The Sacred Romance," which is hard to do, but she did! She kept her sessions to 30 minutes, which were followed by breakout sessions. We also scheduled a one hour "retreat of silence." We received the most comments on the SHORT speaking sessions, the breakouts and the time of complete silence.

Submitted_by

Cathy Koch - Portland, OR cathyk@crossroadscofc.org

Theme_Title

Love in Every Room

Based_On

Col. 3:14 and Book of the same name by Karla Dornacher

Description

Ladies Spring Tea. No matter our age or stage in life, as women our homes reflect our unique personality and creativity. Our homes are a refuge and sanctuary from the chaos of the world.

We provided a backdrop of hunter green tablecloths with a hydrangea for each table. Each hostess then decorated her table either depict a theme or a room of the house. Represented were: Kitchen, Dining Room, Guest Room, Home School Room, Family Room, Play Room, Bathroom, Laundry Room, Closet and even the Garage! Other themes carried out (for decorating purposes) were photography, the sea, gardening, Americana, antiques, music, my quiet place and a study area (Bibles).

Entertainment was a husband and wife skit: she had just discovered the new home decorating store in town and had bought a U-haul's worth. They incorporated the song "My Heart, Your Home" as sung by Watermark. Their 5-yr. old daughter was also included -- to bring home an "out of the mouth of babes" point.

Before dessert we had a reading from "Love Adds the Chocolate." Programs were dark plum cardstock folded with a cutout window to represent a door. A heart-shaped cookie cutter hung from the "window" of the door. A gold brad was the "door knob" which held a cookie recipe for heart-shaped cookies. Special food items were: heart shaped scones, one sandwich shaped like a house and of course, chocolate!

Submitted_by

Cathy Koch - Portland, OR cathyk@crossroadscofc.org

Theme_Title

Standing In The Gap

Based_On

Song by Babbie Mason

Description

This was the theme for the whole year. We taught the ladies the song "Standing in the Gap". Every session we would discuss how we stand in the gap for someone or look in the Bible at a Woman who stood in the gap.

Submitted_by

judy@abbc.org

Theme_Title

Responding with hope

Based_On

Colossians 4:2-6

Description

Theme: A Christ-like life can be a message of hope to a searching world. Each day we are to yield ourselves fully to Jesus so that we may live wisely and respond graciously to others about the One who gives us assurance of eternal life.

Decorations: Baskets of seasonings and cooking spices as center pieces. Give these away as door prizes. Table cloths have a kitchen theme. Place a banner with the theme scripture on it in plain view.

Favors: Bookmarks with the theme scripture written on it

Type: Tea

Agenda: Prayer/Praise Service Welcome Icebreaker Theme Tea/Sandwiches served Introduction of Speaker Invitation/Rededication Fellowship/Door prizes Dismissal

Submitted_by

german6k@pacbell.net Anaheim CA

Theme_Title

A Day at the SPA- your Spiritual Purpose Awakening

Based_On

Psalm 20:4- May He grant you according to your heart's desire and fulfill all your purpose.

Description

For a one day conference, we actually turned the church into a mini-spa. We offered 10 minute back and neck massages, manicures and pedicures, and facials. The workshops were spas themselves, a marriage spa, career spa, family spa, home spa, physical health spa, and emotional health spa. Each was intended to rejuvenate the women and get them excited again about their purpose in life. The speaker spoke on becoming a woman God can use and the extraordinary impact of ordinary women. The centerpiece for each table was a basket filled with spa products that was given away at lunch. Each lady received a how to pamper yourself sheet rolled in a scroll at breakfast and at lunch we gave each lady a gift bag with stuff for a pedicure in them.

Submitted_by

devriesn@fbl-cpa.com

Theme_Title

An Eye for An Eye - Exchanging our Sight for God's Vision

Based_On

Matthew 13 Parable of the Soils

Description

(2 night) Retreat Theme: Four sessions: A Vision for Relationship / Optical Illusions: Overcoming Deception / Through Muddy Water : Focusing Out Distortion / Prescription for Spiritual 20/20 : Tools for Seeing God in His Glory

Submitted_by

gowens2@nc.rr.com / Raleigh, NC

Theme_Title

"Thy Word is a Lamp"

Based_On

Psalm 199:105

Description

Decorate tables with oil lamps and old Bibles set on doilies. Ask each lady to bring a Bible which is special to them and share the reason plus their favorite verse. This can be done in front of the group if small, or at individual tables. Serve homemade breads and soup. You can have someone sing "Thy Word" or another appropriate song. Door prizes could include devotion books.

Submitted_by

Cathy

Theme_Title

School Days

Based_On

Any verse based on teaching

Description

Have meeting in late August or September. Decorate tables with various school supplies. Ask school teachers who are Christians to give a word of testimony. Ask each lady to bring a "sack or box" lunch to exchange with someone else for the meal. (have a few extra on hand) For favors, you can decorate tiny chalk boards with magnets on the back. (Available at craft/hobby stores)

Submitted_by

Cathy

Theme_Title

Precious Moments

Based_On

Psalm 139:17

Description

Mother/daughter event; decorate with Precious Moment figurines; In advance, ask several mothers and daughters to write and read a brief letter of precious moments they recall with one another. Have someone give a devotion on our preciousness to God. You could have a group sing that old song "Precious Memories" or any other appropriate song. You could take mother/daughter pictures with a Polaroid camera and frame them as favors. (we made the frames from material, batting, card board and ribbons...time consuming but less expensive)

Submitted_by

Cathy

Theme_Title

Joy Fest

Based_On

I Thessalonians 5:15

Description

Decorate "Joy" boxes for centerpieces and place humorous cartoons, little jokes, etc...inside the boxes for the ladies to read at their tables. (also include scriptures about joy) Have shoe boxes and materials ready for the ladies to make their own "Joy boxes" to fill with anything that makes them smile. Ask a lady with a good sense of humor to give a devotion on joy, or you could ask a few ladies to share their a joyful or funny moment in their life. Door prizes could include any of Barbara Johnson, Patsy Clairmont, Luci Swindoll books. (really any humorous Christian author for women) Have someone sing a "joyful" song. Food can be potluck style.

Submitted_by

Cathy

Theme_Title

Christmas Tea

Based_On

The Christmas Story

Description

This event was designed for fellowship and celebration of Christ's birth. We signed up a hostess for each table, and she was responsible for decorating the table with centerpiece, china, place mats, favors, etc. We provided different teas along with finger sandwiches, scones and cookies. There were door prizes donated by area merchants and individuals. The program included music, a skit demonstrating how the business of the season can interfere with the joy and true meaning of the season, and a short devotional. This was our very first event for our women, and they loved it so much that we have committed to doing it annually. This year will be our third!

Submitted_by

Diane at wimbles2001@yahoo.com Green Valley Baptist Church; Henderson, NV

Theme_Title

Bloom Where You Are Planted!

Based_On

Isaiah 58:11

Description

Mother-Daughter Luncheon...had larger than life flowers and a picket fence in choir...tables in fellowship hall had miniature garden tools ...butterflies, bees hung from ceiling...a patio complete with fountain set up in corner for ladies to use for photographs

Submitted_by

timzladee@aol.com....Mt. Holly, NC

Theme_Title

"Journey to Joy"

Based_On

Isaiah 55:12a and Psalm 37:23

Description

Handouts were on paper with footprints and a moving theme. Placemats were pages from an Atlas, travel brochures for the physical journey and tracts were for the spiritual journey. A map depicting the physical journey from birth to present day with marked travels was provided for each lady (each lady marked each state she had lived in, milestones in her life, etc). A spiritual map with the spiritual birthplace and present spiritual condition were given to mark (travels over the mountain tops, in the valleys, wandering away from God in the dessert, on the stormy seas, etc). I had large maps on the wall and each lady marked her birthplace on the physical map. The spiritual map had spiritual symbols and a road from salvation at the cross ending at death and heaven. We gave a survival kit to each lady which included, a tiny Bible, a chocolate hug, a piece of red ribbon and a cross (reminder of the blood), a rubber band to be flexible, etc.

We sang songs about walking, "The Way of the Cross Leads Home, When we walk with the Lord", gave a poem, "It's In the Valley that I Grow"

Submitted_by

Vickie Stykes vicway68@juno.com Gray, TN

Theme_Title

"Queen For A Day"

Based_On

We told the ladies that God knew how many hats we wear as women and that for the next 2 hours we wanted them to take off what ever hat they were wearing and put on their imaginary crowns and be queen for a day. We had a presentation of the "perfect woman" which was humorous and then read God's example in Prov. 31. We then had "Tea Time" serving various finger foods, petite fours and fruit tea.

Description

This was used at our annual "Mother's and Other's" tea, the Saturday before Mother's Day. Decorations were : Tables draped in Royal Purple netting on white tablecloths; center pieces on mirrors consisted of vases with roses and ivy circled with white votives. There were beautifully decorated programs at each seat that continued scripture, poetry and recipes we used for the tea. The stage was draped in satin fabrics (from the ceiling tiles) in vibrant colors and we placed a "throne chair" there where the ladies could have their photo made if they wanted. There were plants and large flower arrangements placed there also. The food table was decorated with fresh flowers and tiara's scattered throughout. Our speaker was a former Miss America, Kellye Cash Sheppard, who shared her testimony in song and word. Each "Queen" was given a long stem flower as she departed.

Submitted_by

cjcturner@aol.com WInGS (Women In Gods Service) Women's Ministry Director Highland Park Baptist Church Jackson, Tenn. 38301

Theme_Title

Sweetly Single

Based_On

Isaiah 54:5 & Heb 10:24&25

Description

Many times our single ladies fill as if they do not fit, so at one of our monthly women's ministry meeting. We honored all our single women (unmarried, divorced, widow). They all were seated at the front table decorated with candles and a flower for each to take home after the meeting. The speaker/leader shared scriptures and other scriptures of single women in the bible. She has also compiled a survey from singles and married asking questions such as: What the best thing about being single/married? What is the worst thing about being single/married? She shared her findings than gave the single ladies a chance to share their joys, struggles, and hearts about being single. Then all the married ladies (who wanted to) shared a testimony, scripture, or a word to the single ladies. We ended the meeting with special prayer for each single woman. We prayed for God to send husbands, to comfort them in loneliness, etc.. This was such a great meeting (one of my favorites), for many times we do not understand the burdens that single people bear. This meeting helped us all and created a bond between both. It also helped us married women understand how some of our single women hurt when we make statement like "Are you ever going to get married"? "Who are you dating?" Making them (singles) feel like they must be attached to someone for their lives to have meaning.

Submitted_by

Hearts In Harmony Vicki London speaker/leader Lenoir City, TN

Theme_Title

Letting his light shine (through us)

Based_On

A women's retreat theme

Description

Various Lanterns decorated the dinner tables, and all talks were centered around his (God's) Light for us. Even the pathways throughout the camp had lanterns lighting the way.

Submitted_by

Sugarbear@naplesnews.net Naples Florida

Theme_Title

Celebrate the times of your lives

Based_On

Mother/Daughter, Eccles. There is a time for every purpose under heaven

Description

A brunch with each table decorated for a different family event. Examples: Baby shower, wedding, kid's birthday, graduation, sweet sixteen, camping, Disneyland, and many others Volunteers were sought out to decorate a table in the theme of their choice and serve as hostess. The speaker gave a devotion on treasuring all the times of our lives.

Submitted_by

clay@proaxis.com

Theme_Title

Heirlooms of a Godly Woman

Based_On

Titus 2:3-5

Description

We set a day every year to honor our "Women of Wisdom", age 60 and older. We select a guest speaker, select music, "Heirlooms" by Amy Grant is a good one. Plan a menu and decorate using heirlooms. We also set aside a couple of special heirloom tables displaying our heirlooms, quilts, etc. Some of the ladies had quilts made for them or their children by the one of the "Women of Wisdom" and we displayed them. We made cards of explanation and attached to each heirloom.. This quilt was given in the honor of the birth of my first child by my grandmother, Letha Hellums. This is a fabulous to bond with this age group. We set aside enough money in our Women's Ministry to pay for all of this, so this is a day that truly honors these special ladies!

Submitted_by

Melinda Randolph Tupelo, MS randolph5ofus@aol.com

Theme_Title

A Gathering of Tough Women

Based_On

Eight ministers/evangelists spoke on 8 women in the Bible and the characteristics that made them able to do what they did.

Description

A 5 hour program with opening devotion. First two speakers spoke on Ester and Deborah. Then there was a musical selection. Two speakers spoke on Jael and Hannah. Then there was a 1 hour lunch, which was a salad bar composed of various salads that each attended brought as her admission charge to the gathering. Door prizes were given away. Then after lunch two speakers spoke on Abigail and Mary the sister of Martha. There was a musical selection and the last two women spoke on the woman with the issue of blood and Mary the mother of Jesus. The basis of the program was to show the characteristics found in those godly women and stress the need for those characteristics in the godly women of today! The program ended with announcements and presentation of gifts to the speakers and then benediction.

Submitted_by

llbrookins@peoplepc.com Los Angeles, California

Theme_Title

be ready in season and out

Based_On

2nd timothy 4:2

Description

summer time is busy so we use it to do a quilt that we then send to a missionary, one we support, in Dec. The women love it and we get great visit time. As the quilt is a winter blanket and we are doing it in the summer hence the name of our summer sessions.

Submitted_by

katchley@deao.net Meeker, CO 81641

Theme_Title

What Kind of Tater Are You?

Based_On

To be doers of the Word, not hearers only. Expounded on kinds of taters: Agie Tater (always stirring up trouble), Hezzie Tater (never gets around to doing anything), Dick Tater (likes to give orders but don't want to soil their own hands), Comment Tater (not willing to help but are quick to criticize), Speck Tater (content to sit on the sidelines & not participate in any ministry), Sweet Tater (always willing to help, brings sunshine to lives of others, displays fruit of the Spirit).

Description

Type: A simple activity for a women's night/day out. Potatoes is the theme! The invitations have pictures of different kinds of potatoes (potato chips, french fries, baked potatoes, hash browns, Mr. Potato Head, sweet potatoes, etc.). The ladies can each bring copies of their favorite potato recipe to share. The ice breaker is to play 'Hot Potato.' The prizes are potato scrubbers and potato peelers. The refreshments are potato chips & dip, potato skins (w/cheese & bacon & sour cream), sweet potato cheesecake squares, and sweet potato bread. (At the end of the evening, everyone gets to take home a small container of Pringles and plenty of recipes.)

Submitted_by

Marsha Gabbard - Mason, Ohio mgabbard@juno.com

Theme_Title

How Does Your Garden Grow?

Based_On

Jeremiah 17:7-8

Description

Decorated the front with: rakes, flowers, garden gloves, plants, etc. The tables were decorated with little flower pots and/or garden gloves. This was for a Mother Daughter Banquet. We also played a game where everyone brought a $5.00 garden item (flower, gloves, plant, etc.) and I had a poem on Mother's Day and you passed the gifts "Right" and "Left". I also spoke on "How Does Your Garden Grow?" I compared our life to that of a plant or flower.

Submitted_by

brenda.peters@pfizer.com Brenda Peters - Cincinnati, Ohio

Theme_Title

A day at the Beach

Based_On

Scriptures were used for each give-away( ex: With lip balm, we attached the scripture regarding the balm of Gilead, with the umbrella, we used the scripture regarding he is our covering & protection.

Description

Each place setting was decorated with plastic beach pails in wonderful colors, inside the buckets were various give-aways, lip balm, sunscreen, umbrellas, sunglasses, light-house windchimes and scriptures were attached to each item. Beach towels were the door prizes. Hotdogs/chips and pasta salad was the menu with fruit for dessert. We had a fun night and saw how everything we do, can be related to our daily walk.

Submitted_by

mbyoung66@hotmail.com Lebanon, TN

Theme_Title

"Pampering Staff Wives"

Based_On

In our day and time, we women are pulled by all the hats we wear....and our Pastors' wives are in the same boat...only we put them in positions where we expect more from them than other women in our churches....We need to take the time to let them know how GRATEFUL to the Father we are for their service to Him and us! Ephesians 3:17b-19 "I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge--that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God."

Description

1) Have each staff wife fill out an "All About Me" form with all her Favorites: Song/Hymn, Candy, Color, Perfume, Scripture, Book, etc. 2) Get a baby picture of each one & display on a board....saying who am I? 3) We held this event in the home of one of our women (she had a large home that would hold a lot of women) 4) We invited every woman at church to attend....to bring a covered dish and a card and/or small gift for each wife..... 5) We decorated card tables....one for each wife (in their favorite color) and placed a big basket on each one for their cards/gifts and a bowl of favorite candy...and we had each of their favorite scriptures done in calligraphy/matted and framed (every lady signed the back of this scripture)..... 5) As women arrived we had cards for them to do the baby guess? and we prayed and had our potluck dinner!!! Of course, we made sure their "favorite dishes" were prepared! 6) After dinner we shared about each of wife...when they came to our church, etc....and had "popcorn" testimonies from ladies as they felt led to tell how that staff wife had ministered to their life....then we had someone sing their favorite song/hymn....until each one had had this special time...we then served their "favorite desserts" 7) And last but not least....(this was the BEST)....we had a Special prayer time and foot washing for each one.....we split them up in different areas of the home and allowed the ladies to split up to wash their feet and pray with them...the last few ladies in line...dried and put lotion on their feet and we gave them silky slippers and closed in group prayer....It was an AWESOME time for ALL!!!

Submitted_by

Janell Jones jjones@bgco.org Choctaw, OK

Theme_Title

He is the Ornament that Shines forth

Based_On

Personal Reflection

Description

For Christmas 2001, the Lord revealed this to us: Before the fellowship, the invitation asked each lady to bring a small ornament that reflected light or produced light (glass ornament, mirror, candle etc). All gifts were placed under the tree. Coordinator spoke about the uniqueness of each of us and how each of us shines His light in different ways. During moment of reflection, we were asked to think of someone who shined His light in our life or a scripture that was the light during a time of walking in a valley or a moment in our life where Jesus shined His glory to guide us. Then we passed out the gifts and opened them. We invited the ladies to share their testimony to God's light. Wow! is all I can say about what happened next!

Submitted_by

lisadmo@cox.net, Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Theme_Title

He is the Gift

Based_On

Personal Reflection and encouragement of others

Description

For our ladies get-together Christmas 2000, we asked everyone to bring a small gift/token. Ladies were asked to hold on to their gift. After a time of fellowship we gathered together. The topic was the gifts we bring to Him and to those around us. While listening to a song, we were asked to let the Spirit guide us to someone who is in need of a special gift of encouragement; maybe someone who needs to know He is there. We added that some may get many gifts, some may get none. But we were believing this would truly be the guiding of His Spirit. Then the ladies brought the gifts accordingly. WOW! what a blessing to so many. It was amazing to see the ladies joined together by the Spirit. New friendships were made (solely by the guiding of HIs Spirit) that night.

Submitted_by

lisadmo@cox.net, Baton Rouge, LA

Theme_Title

Hot Topics

Based_On

Based on the scriptures in Timothy stating that women should train younger women. Hopefully, many areas of concern will be addressed.

Description

Along with the hot weather at July's meeting, we will be hosting a "rap session" called "Hot Topics". Topics of interest or concern to women will be submitted by our women beforehand and then we will break away into groups to discuss and look up scriptures pertaining to that groups' particular topic and after 15-20 minutes we will come back together and share what we have found on each topic. Each group will have an opportunity to share and then others will respond or ask questions. Some of the topics will include; Submission to Husbands, Does Jesus Have a Dress Code?, etc.

Submitted_by

aliciatoole@aol.com Whitehouse, Tx

Theme_Title

who are you yoked up with

Based_On

being unequally yoked

Description

our meetings are to reach women and share with them the love of God. to let them know that God loves them for who they are, we nurture them, encourage them, and share our lives with them, we want them to feel open and comfortable.

Submitted_by

hfarrar@rr.nc.com fayetteville, NC 28314

Theme_Title

Annual Mother/Daughter Picnic

Based_On

varies from year to year

Description

This year we did a Luau. The ladies had a wonderful time, we took apart silk flowers and made our own lies, with straws, string, and the flower petals. We played limbo and had a water balloon toss. Each mother/daughter brought their own sack lunch, the church provided drinks, and 2 ladies brought cakes. We had a wonderful time of fellowship and fun.

Submitted_by

Shawn Spencer Living Faith Foursquare Church, Pueblo, Co.81003 lilfrog2727@aol.com

Theme_Title

Coming Out of Egypt in Your Pajama's

Based_On

Exodus

Description

Type: This was designed for a ladies sleep over.

Submitted_by

campj58@aol.com Tanner, Al

Theme_Title

SURVIVAL KITS FOR CHRISTIANS

Based_On

Description

Submitted_by

Theme_Title

Theme Tables

Based_On

Tables could have a scripture to go with them

Description

Each hostess (table of 8 to 10 people) decorates her table on any theme she wishes and invites guests to fill her table and a dessert for her table. Examples: Western decoration "spur each other on toward Christ"; Fruit: Fruit of the Spirit; Gardening: God's Garden . We also had a speaker following our dessert.

Submitted_by

ytucker@hrva.com

Theme_Title

worthy of praise worthy of praise

Based_On

The name of the Lord shall be praised

Description

one day conference

Submitted_by

p_nowlin@yahoo.com, new albany, ms

Theme_Title

Girl's Night Out

Based_On

Description

Slumber party. We had a slumber party at church. Every woman was encouraged to attend, even if just for a few hours. We watched a Chonda Pierce hilarious video, popped popcorn, gave facials, ate snacks and spent the night at the church. We prayed for each other. Played games. It was a great way to get to know one another and be encouraged by good Christian Women Fellowship!

Submitted_by

BrandyDRenfroe@aol.com

Theme_Title

Christian Women exhaling and inhaling the word of God in the home, community and church

Based_On

Proverbs 14:1

Description

colors: black and gold

Submitted_by

Theme_Title

"Silver Boxes - The Encouragement Gift"

Based_On

Ephesians 4:29 'Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers."

Description

"Silver Boxes" by Florence Littauer is a wonderful book and the video to go along is absolutely fabulous. Just as our words should edify Christ our words should also build one another up. As a daily reminder I had cut 1 1/2 x 2 blocks of wood and wrapped in silver wrapping paper and topped with a small silver bow and added the scripture on a translucent paper. All of the ladies received one to place anywhere that they wanted so that when they saw their box it reminded them to say encouraging words. We then had the tables decorated according to different chapters in her book an example - Mail Boxes (send encouraging words thru notes to people). It was such an uplifting evening.

Submitted_by

Tamara Duley jduley2@aol.com Odessa, Texas

Theme_Title

Gingerbread Hunt

Based_On

Bake and Share

Description

This is a Treasure Hunt with a Mission Twist 1. When women arrive they are given a clue which leads them to the first hiding place. 2. At that hiding place they retrieve 3 things, a scripture printed on a festive recipe card with a cookie recipe on the back, an ingredient or utensil for the end project, and the clue to the next spot. 3. Each hiding spot has some crumbs and the clues are written as if they are from the gingerbread man who ran away. 4. When your teams all get to the last spot (the church kitchen) You combine all ingredients and utensils to make gingerbread men 5. While they are baking you have devotions based on the things that keep us running instead of focusing on Christ. 6.

Theme_Title

Tea Cups (this is our "Mug and Muffin" fellowship which we have to kick-off the new year)

Based_On

Hebrews 10:23-24

Description

Taken from the book "Tea for Two - taking time for Friends". We meet on a Saturday morning and bring two mugs - one to drink out of and one wrapped to trade and a batch of muffins. The reading from the book is a comparison of tea cups and friends. We'll also work on our "Pillows made with Love"

Submitted_by

Betty Toole Cairo, Georgia TTOOLE@SURFSOUTH.COM

Theme_Title

Christian Women Pressing Toward the Mark

Based_On

Philippians 3:14

Description

Submitted_by

Vanessa Rollinson mznessa2000@yahoo.com

Theme_Title

The 7-UP Challenge

Based_On

See details below.

Description

Sent out invitations for "7-Up Night." Asked everyone to wear green. (We did this in March, so the color went along with St. Patrick's Day.) Put on the invitation that it was "sure to be an UP-lifting evening!"

For an icebreaker, we played the old kids' game of "Heads Up, Seven Up" (where everyone had to bow their heads, close their eyes, while three other ladies selected 3 players to tap on the shoulder, then they had to guess which lady did the tapping).

Next, I shared some facts about 7-up, where the name came from, how long it's been around, etc.

The topic for discussion was to take the "7-UP Challenge:" 1. 'Fess up (I John 1:9) Confess our sins. 2. Make up (Col. 3:13) Forgive one another. 3. Pray up (I Thess. 5:17) Keep those lines of communication open between you & God. 4. Look up (I Chron. 16:11) Keep your eyes on God above, especially when things down here get tough. 5. Stand up (Eph. 6:13,14) "Having done all, to stand..." 6. Free up (John 8:36) Don't live in the past; let go of some things; if your life is too crowded, prioritize I& re-evaluate. 7. Wise up (Dan. 12:3) Realize the devil is after your soul, and he doesn't care how he gets it: by your not confessing, not forgiving, not praying, not depending on God, etc.

For refreshments, we served 7-up cake, 7-up salad, and of course, 7-up beverages (along with some other choices).

Submitted_by

Marsha Gabbard (mgabbard@juno.com) Faith Christian Fellowship (Mason, Ohio)

Theme_Title

HE IS MY SONG

Based_On

PSALM 118:14

Description

Ladies Banquet or Mother/Daughter Banquet Decorations: black musical notes hung from ceiling of fellowship hall/musical staff on walls/had musical notes "confetti" sprinkled on table...tableware all in black & white...gave Avon samples for favors...served a brunch...."breakfast casserole", bagels, muffins, juices, coffee///program included leading the ladies in choruses before our speaker....fun time included a "Krazy Kazoo Kitchen Band" which consisted of a group of our ladies wearing aprons and playing songs with kazoo instruments...had variety of songs...we put on sun glasses for a really "cool" song...had a director... acted like we were really serious musicians...last song, we pantomimed a real classical piece like we were really good!

Submitted_by

Denise timzladee@aol.com Mt. Holly, NC

Theme_Title

Cleaning with the Gospel

Based_On

Cleaning & Household Products, Index cards, Bible

Description

We expanded the kitchen at church and had a house warming party for it. We decorated the tables with cleaning products and household items, such as: Zest, Glad, Joy, Dawn, Pledge, Brite, Future, Dove, Renu, Renuzit, Shout, Bounty, Angel Soft, & stain remover just to name a few. On each product we had a scripture verse that either had the product name in it, or referred to it. It was amazing how many scriptures you can find for everyday items. When our party was over we let each lady take home a product, an everyday reminder to find God's Word in all they do.

Submitted_by

Shawn Spencer Living Faith Foursquare Church Pueblo Co. lilfrog2727@aol.com

Theme_Title

Homemade with Love

Based_On

We used many scripture verses. How God knit us together in our mothers womb and then went on to the many verses about our hands and talents.

Description

All of the ladies were encouraged to bring in items that were homemade. The two weeks before the event we had items that were just made to those that had been made over 100 years ago. We had opportunity to display all of the treasures for our decor. Every women who brought something was able to share with the others the meaning and significance of the evening. It was an incredible time of reflection and remembrance for the women.

Submitted_by

SVanNoord@aol.com, Bellflower, CA

Theme_Title

Annual Fall Kick-Off

Based_On

2 Peter 3:18 (Key word:GROW) and 1 Peter 4:10 (Key word:SERVE): The idea of the fall kick-off is to provide a venue for women to get involved, both to GROW as believers and to use their gifts to SERVE others.

Description

The Fall Kick-off is our showcase event for all the ministries available to women at the church. This year, we used a football theme (kick-off--obvious!) and used the team idea for the larger metaphor in which to couch the event. Our women's ministry coordinator was the head coach and each ministry leader was an offensive or defensive coordinator. Every woman is a part of the TEAM and no one sits the bench! We used Monday Night Football music, had a "breakthrough" poster to introduce the "coaching staff", used helmets as table decorations, and provided a ministry "playbook" for everyone to take home and have to look over. Inside the playbook was a pullout calendar with all the dates, phone numbers, and places of key ministry events. After each coach and ministry area was introduced, the women were dismissed to view the ministry displays which were set up along the edges of the room. Each display included sign-up sheets and other information to get women involved in what's happening this year. The "head coach" blew a whistle every 3 minutes to keep the ministry "faire" moving and each woman had a scorecard with all the ministries listed. By visiting a ministry, a star sticker was placed on the scorecard, and the scorecards were turned in for door prizes at the end. We also had a dessert pot-luck with drinks provided by the church. It was a GREAT evening and a GREAT opportunity to get new women involved in areas that interest them, as they see everything offered in one place! The feeling of a giant Pep Rally was the overall atmosphere.

Submitted_by

Julie Bell juliebell@fbcarapaho.com, Dallas, TX

Theme_Title

"Skeletons in Your Closet"

Based_On

"Forgetting those things that are behind, I press toward the mark..."

Description

We did this in October, appropriate for the Halloween season. The invitations/flyers had clipart pictures like skeletons, pumpkins, and a mummy (with a note that said, "Don't be too WRAPPED UP to come!").

At our get-together, we did a couple of ice breaker games and gave away little prizes like rubber skeletons/key chains and Halloween candy. For the main discussion, I had gave everyone a small piece of paper. Then I talked about how we sometimes find it hard to forgive ourselves for the past, things that God has forgiven us for and forgotten about, but we are haunted by them as 'skeletons in our closets,' continually feeling guilty. At the close of the discussion, I asked them to privately write down something(s) that they are bothered by, that they want 'buried' and forgotten. Then they folded them up into small pieces and dropped them into a plastic coffin (was actually a plastic candy container in the shape of a coffin). I closed the lid on it, told them they were buried, and to feel the freedom and life that God has for them. (I proceeded to dump them into a garbage can later, so that they were assured no one would be opening them to read what they'd written.)

Everyone received a party favor bag (decorated with skeletons) with candy in it to take home.

Submitted_by

Marsha Gabbard Faith Christian Fellowship (Mason, Ohio)

Theme_Title

The Potter’s Pots

Based_On

Is. 64:8 2 Tim. 2:20-21

Description

The different kinds of vessels during bible times (vessel of honor, dishonor, clean, mercy, broken, chosen, etc…) and how the potter made them. Letting Jesus mold us in the center of His will and being a vessel of honor fit for the masters us. (giving out living water to others) God's love for all His vessels. Decorations: Terracotta pots with flowers for each table, candles made into terracotta small pots, all different sizes of vessels. Even broken pieces of pottery with candles on them or pot with holes & candles showing the light shinning through. Water basins and towels

Submitted_by

Vicki London vlondon@icx.net Lenoir City, TN 37771

Theme_Title

Flapping Chickens & Soaring Eagles

Based_On

Is. 40:28-31; Phil. 4

Description

How we as women ware ourselves out trying just get off the ground when God wants us to wait upon Him so we can soar. Patience, perseverance, and confidence. How to handle lives storms (like the eagle) Decorations: Birds, bird housed, chickens, chicken wire, etc

Submitted_by

vlondon@icx.net Lenoir City, TN

Theme_Title

Jewels For Jesus

Based_On

Exodus 35:22

Description

Fundraiser - in conjunction with a tea. Women donated their jewelry that they don't wear anymore and we cleaned it up and sold it. (at incredible prices) Proceeds helps cover expenses for Women's Ministry.

Submitted_by

Jeanfrodriguez@attbi.com Citrus Heights, CA

Theme_Title

BreakAway Women's camp

Based_On

Description

(not sure if I'm submitting in the right box, but here goes) At this camp I have used the "Silver Box" Idea, but change it a little. I have made Boxes and covered it in silver paper with the scripture, but I inserted different encouragement poems in the boxes. Then with our Friday opening handed a box to all the ladies. The idea of the camp was to always encourage one another. So the Silver boxes were EXCHANGED by the ladies all throughout the weekend. This is a way of communicating, blessing one another with just a hug or a smile. Eventually the one you get to take home will have the encouragement you needed to face your circumstances at home. This is also a way of allowing the Holy Spirit to work through you to speak a word of encouragement.

Submitted_by

Deirdre Brooks brooks@science.uct.ac.za Sarepta, Kuils River, Cape Town, South Africa

Theme_Title

My Heart - Christ's Home

Based_On

Based on the book by Robert Munger

Description

Our ladies ministry team was going through the Beth Moore study, A Heart Like His, by Beth Moore and near the end of it we decided a mini-retreat was in order to end this event. We wanted to rededicate ourselves as women ministry leaders in our church so we would be better equipped to encourage other ladies in our church and community. We did the retreat in a home...and each room represented a different area of our hearts. 1. The living room of our hearts - making God the priority of our lives. 2. The kitchen of our hearts - what are we consuming on a daily basis? 3. The office/study of our hearts - what are we pouring our efforts into...what are we listening too and reading? 4. The hall closet of our hearts - what do we have locked away in our hearts that we hide from others and God? 5. The bedroom of our hearts - what troubles are in our lives that are causing us not to rest in God...and are we dressing ourselves with the full armor of God on a daily basis? 6. The recreation room of our hearts - where do we go or what do we do for entertainment that we would prefer Christ not join us? 7. The bathroom of our hearts - do we ever feel so dirty that we have to bath a couple times before we feel clean again?

Each lady spent about 10 minutes alone in each room, with Bible references to look up and questions to mediate on and pray about. At the end we came all together and each woman shared which room was the most revealing to her. Afterwards we all went out to a local restaurant for a late night breakfast!! Each woman was touched deeply by this mini-retreat and we're planning on doing it for our ladies at church.

Submitted_by

Kathi Hunt, Ladies Ministry Coordinator DHunt12153@aol.com Freeman Heights Baptist Church Garland, TX

Theme_Title

The Revelation Woman: Doing The Will of the Lord in the Earth

Based_On

Revelation 12 entirety; Ephesians 4 entirety

Description

Pictorially, I created an image of the woman described in Revelation 12. The event was a two-day women's conference. Friday night: praise, worship, and 3 women giving their personal testimonies, and a theme messenger. Saturday: Five fold ministry theme with five presenters who walk in those offices; Fellowship lunch. Afternoon closing message and prayer ministry. Each day we honored a woman who was working with in Women's Ministry and also gave monetary donations to her and to the organization.

Submitted_by

kch322@hotmail.com Lake City, South Carolina

Theme_Title

Plant a Friendship

Based_On

Description

This was the theme of our annual ladies luncheon. Based around friendships between women and the scriptural basis for such friendships. Different speakers gave testimonies about the impact of their best friend in their life. Centerpieces were clay flowerpots (pre-painted with different flowers) with bible verses written on the outside of the pot. A small plant was put into each pot. This centerpiece became one of the door prizes. We also designed our own friendship-themed seed packets on the computer, printed them off and put an actual packet of seeds inside the new wrappers. These were giveaways for all who attended.

Submitted_by

apojudy@yahoo.com

Theme_Title

God's Temple: Mind, Body and Spirit

Based_On

Description

This was the theme used for our church women's retreat. The retreat was held at a spa. While our body's were being pampered with spa treatments, such as, full body massages, herbal wraps, contour baths, etc. the women used this time to meditate and renew and refresh her spirit. Three workshops were held in between spa treatments. Workshop one was "The Mind of Christ". This allowed us to remove all distractions from our minds in order for us to hear from God. Workshop 2 was "The Body of Christ" and we talked about how to care for our bodies by eating healthy and getting the proper medical examinations, such as, yearly pap smears and mammograms. Workshop 3 was "The Spirit of God". We really got into the presence of God and gave Him praise for all He has done in our lives. This was a wonderful retreat. We went home refreshed and renewed in our Spirits and we all desired a closer walk with God.

Submitted_by

aleshia_terry@hotmail.com Chicago, IL

Theme_Title

Treasures from Heaven

Based_On

Spiritual gifts

Description

We combined a spiritual gifts assessment with a brunch. We had fellowship and brunch and then moved into the assessment portion of our program.

Decorations: Purple and Gold We used inexpensive gold gift boxes and purple Mylar paper as centerpieces and to decorate the food tables.

Favor: The Treasure Box (each lady received one of these to take home) We used 1/4 lb gold candy box and inside we placed each of these items and this list:

CROSS to remind us that Jesus paid the ultimate price JEWEL to remind us we are jewels in His crown ROCK for He is the rock of our salvation CANDLE Jesus lights our path THREAD to bind us together in unity and one accord RUBBER BAND He teaches you to stretch to our full potential CLOTHES PINS to remind us that He provides all - even clothes ERASERS to remind us that only HE can forgive our sins TISSUES Jesus dries our tears UMBRELLA for He is our shelter in the storm BAND-AIDS for He can heal all hurts COMPASS He guides your way HEART Jesus lives in your heart LIFESAVER only He can save us CRAYON He is the color in our world JINGLE BELL Jesus is music to our ears RED HOT CANDY for He sets our soul afire

Submitted_by

Mary Snyder First Baptist Church Remlap, AL MarySnydr@aolcom

Theme_Title

Whine and Cheese Party

Based_On

Phil 2:14 Do everything without complaining or arguing...

Description

This was an evangelistic night out event. We served cheese, fruit and juice and played games around where cheese is in the Bible, name that cheese, composed top 10 lists of things women complain about. We sang "On Top of Spaghetti" in a whiney voice. The speaker talked about doing all things without complaining and learning to be content in Christ.

Submitted_by

Jean Marrapodi, Director of Women's Ministries, Providence Assembly of God, Providence RI; Jean's contact: rejoicer@aol.com; http://www.applestar.org; Church contact: http://www.providenceassembly.org

Theme_Title

Mother's Baskets

Based_On

Description

I decorated with lots of different types of baskets including a picnic basket and laundry baskets. It is showing the many baskets that a woman has to go through on her daily routine. Such as laundry, tending baby, cooking, working and even a gift basket. Have to be creative. Put party favors in little gift basket ornaments. This was for a Mother's Day Banquet.

Submitted_by

womenministries48198@yahoo.com

Theme_Title

Ladies Night at Christmas

Based_On

Outreach and Inreach event

Description

An evening of a catered dinner, lots of door prizes, entertainment, guest speaker (to give a testimony & an invitation to receive Christ). Hostesses (church members) set their own table with China and a Centerpiece. Hostesses invite ladies from the community (and from within the church) to sit at their table. The Hostess's husband, boyfriend, or male friend is the server for her table. She also provides a small token gift for each of the ladies at her table. The food, entertainment, childcare, etc. as well as invitations with envelopes are paid for by the church. The dinner is a fully catered buffet style. If you need to, you can have two nights (if there's not enough room for all hostesses to have a table). Also, hostesses can share tables with half each. Tables are usually set for eight. To start off the season, we hold the event on the first weekend of December. What a blessing it is to all of the ladies. Look forward to seeing the event grow each year!

Submitted_by

simmons@knology.net Lynn Haven, Fl

Theme_Title

Spiritual Makeover

Based_On

Be Made New in the Likeness of Christ

Description

Weekend Retreat. Included some physical makeover activities, with massages, haircuts, makeup, facials, hand waxing, pedicures, etc. Sessions on what Christ wants us to reflect, what we need to release, and what we need to "put on." First session included a video of children of the church telling what they though a Christian woman should be like, who they saw as examples in our church, what women in the Bible they learned something from. The "release" session included the modern day parable of the Pearls, where a little girl finally releases her cheap dime-store pearls to her father, who has had real pearls for her all the time. The "put on" session included a skit with someone trying to decide what to wear, with various "voices" in her head (mom, SS teacher, sister, aerobics instructor, sexy woman, etc) trying to influence her. Skit ends with her deciding that the clothes aren't that important, just need to "put on" Christ. We made "goody bags" for each person, cosmetic bags with samples, nail files, magnets with our Women's Group logos, a microwaveable heating pad and healthy snacks. Door prizes included devotional books and spa type items (lotions, etc.) An early morning prayer and study time on the theme of Contentment added an extra dimension. Music, lead by Ladies Praise Team, included many choruses selected for each sessions main theme. Discussion groups followed each main session.

Submitted_by

Springfield, Missouri

Theme_Title

It's a Jungle Out there!

Based_On

Psalm 46:10 Be Still and know that I am God.

Description

A Ladies night out in the Fall to get a glimpse of the Spring retreat. We decorated with animal print balloons tied to jungle grass centerpieces, on an animal print tablecloth. There were monkeys hanging from the large plants in the room plus a large cut-out lion, tiger and gorilla. Jungle music played in the background. This event was to give our women a feel for what is offered at our annual retreat. We had a dessert potluck, and coffee and teas, plus lemonade. They did a table safari (finding items from their purses which we had listed on the tables) and the winning table got safari prizes (like animal print fans and change purses). The retreat leadership team dressed up in jungle attire and lip-synched to "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" and then a short overview of this year's retreat was given, including the dates, room options, introducing our speaker and an opportunity to join the retreat teams to help. Our Pastor's wife spoke on the theme, sharing about a new meaning for being still following her recent heart attack. We ended the evening with a dance group performing a special outreach dance called "The Seeker's Dance" which left us all in tears. There was an opportunity to register early for the retreat and set up an account to pay into for the next 6 months. It was great fun, and we plan to do it every year.

Submitted_by

Barb Miller Director of Ministry Development and Women's Ministry Overseer barb@svccgilroy.com, Gilroy, CA

Theme_Title

Cookie Exchange

Based_On

Description

Every Christmas we have a Christmas Party and each year we have a cookie exchange. Each person who wants to participate brings 3 dozen cookies. We then place all the cookies on a table. Then a few women do a couple of rounds around the table making baskets for some of the elderly people at our church who are not able to make it to the Christmas party. Generally what is left is about 2 dozen of each of the original three dozen each person brought. Then the ladies who brought the cookies make rounds around the table grabbing 3-4 cookies at each time. By the time we are done, each person has 2 dozen cookies of all kinds to take home. It is an event we look forward to each year. It is amazing to see how each year the table keeps getting bigger and bigger. We generally request (if people can) to make something extra special for the elderly baskets. For example, last year I made 15 mini banana bread loaves.

Submitted_by

Terri Millard, tmterbear@yahoo.com, Hamilton, OH

Theme_Title

Unique in Ministry

Based_On

God has created us each unique and has given each a different gift

Description

Just as each snowflake is different, so are we each different from another. God has created us to be unique. We had two speakers, co-authors of the book, "At the Feet of Ordinary Women". One of our speakers talk was titled "You'nique in Ministry". All of our decorations had snowflakes of some sort on them. Candles/candle holders, napkins, floating candles and bookmarks for each guest, program/brochure/fliers, name tags, cups, snowflake confetti, we even decorated their folders with snowflake stickers. You can even buy York Peppermint Patties that are shaped like snowflakes. We used dark blue background with white snowflakes for all of the above. We even found blue and white snowflake tissue paper and gift bags for the speakers' gifts. It was a great way to show that each of us has been uniquely created by God for His calling into ministry.

Submitted_by

Sheila Opper, Director of Women's Ministry, Days of Grace Fellowship, Pekin IL. sheila@daysofgrace.org. Website: www.daysofgrace.org.

Theme_Title

Ladies Retreat theme: Mosaic of The Master

Based_On

Ephesians 2:10 For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Description

A woman with computer expertise created a logo which was a cross mosaic with missing tiles scattered around it. It was multi-colored. We used this on our printed program, all written communications and publicity posters. We had t-shirts made with the same mosaic cross and added on an additional $5 to retreat registration fee for the t-shirts. During our "free time" on Saturday afternoon, several fun things were offered, such as stretching to music, chair massages (from local massage school students), walk through the woods, make-up demo, etc. This year, we had ceramic mosaic cross making. All ladies' rooms had quilts on the bed. Retreat speaker used a quilt to reinforce how we are God's workmanship. An encouragement bag with each participant's name on it was in a designated place and throughout the Retreat, the ladies wrote encouraging notes to one another and dropped them in the bag. Bags were taken home at Retreat's end. This year, the bags had a "quilted" look. We have a Retreat scrapbook and add to it each year, with appropriate graphics, etc. for Retreat theme.

Submitted_by

Rosalie Ewing Ewings@cox-internet.com Haughton, LA

Theme_Title

Beyond Barbie

Based_On

The speaker spoke on Friday night about our S.H.A.P.E (spiritually) from Rev 3:15-16 and on Saturday morning she spoke on "Wearing Designer Labels" (Woman, Christian & Disciple)

Description

This was a retreat. The decorations were donated by Toys'R Us and Kmart. Toys'R us also gave us 6 helium ballons that read 'The Big Barbie Event'. We bought Barbie posters. Each chair had a white bag with hot pink tissue paper. In each bag was a Barbie Diary, Barbie pencil, a ring pop, Barbie candy and a Barbie handbook with songs sung, schedule, etc. Of course we had Barbies dream house and a bust of Barbie.

Submitted_by

judy@abbc.org Kansas City, MO

Theme_Title

Back to School Time

Based_On

Psalm 25:4 Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths.

Description

For our August Women's Ministries meeting, my group planned a back-to-school themed evening, announcing the meeting on theme paper with a chalkboard design. For an ice-breaker, the ladies brought a grade school photo which we posted with numbers for everyone to guess names. We also had a yo-yo contest. One older lady surprised and delighted us as we all counted her yo-yoing up to 86. The winners of each were given apple-scented candles. Next one of our ladies read a teaching/learning version of the Beatitudes from this website www.iloveteaching.com/motivating/beatitudes.htm. It was a good start to get us thinking. We had an extraordinary kindergarten teacher for our speaker. She shared funny stories from her experience and encouragement from the Psalms. (Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. Ps. 143:10, and I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go. Ps. 32:8) Our table decorations were slates with these verses written on them along with apples with miniature flags stuck in them, pencils, crayons, old schoolbooks, and scissors. For refreshments we served a variety of apple desserts.

Submitted_by

millerl@iecc.edu Fairfield, Illinois

Theme_Title

Victorious Living: What is a woman and what makes her unique?

Based_On

Psalms 139:14 was used on the programs, however our guest speakers were not given this scripture, to give them freedom to be led by the spirit of God.

Description

The vision was for women to explore what makes them unique and to allow this uniqueness to touch and heal others. We packed gift bags with some essential items like: a toothpick-to pick out the positive points in our day, a pencil with an eraser-to remind us to count our blessings and remember that we are not perfect but we can correct our mistakes, a special gift from a bath and body shop-to remind us that our body is a temple and we have to be good to it, Christian literature-to remind us that we must not forget to renew our minds daily with the word of God, a Hershey's hug and a kiss-to remind us that everyone needs at least one of these a day, a mint- because you're worth this much to those who love you, and a special thank you card from our First Lady. It was a women's conference and it was from 10am to 4 or 5 pm (once the Lord began to move it was hard to keep track of the time!) We had an awesome time in the Lord!

Submitted_by

Jennifer Davis jennieldavis@yahoo.com Watertown, NY

Theme_Title

Evening of Elegance

Based_On

1 Peter 4:10

Description

Women use their unique talents to decorate a table. Ladies choose to be a hostess for a table and serve the other women at their table. Great idea for Small Groups. A Guest Speaker is invited to share an inspirational message for women and an initiation is extended to the women to accept Jesus at the end of the evening. A great outreach as well as a way to build community among the women in the church. Women are able to use their creative talents and bless others. Light hor'douevre's and beverages are served.

Submitted_by

margyh@newventure.org Oceanside, California

Theme_Title

Variation on Pocket Prayers

Based_On

Description

We are going to use the idea from the last news letter about prayer pockets with this variation: I suggest that on another slip write, “ you have been chosen as a prayer recipient. (You don’t know me, nor I you but know that you are being prayed for) then give them the bag with the treat in it.

Submitted_by

Carrin Mahmood cmahmood@saintandrews.org Mahtomedi, Minnesota

Theme_Title

Life: What a Trip!

Based_On

Travel, specifically airline travel

Description

This theme was used for our fall overnight retreat, held just this past weekend, and we took it to the hilt!

When ladies registered, they received a "boarding pass," which they had to bring with them when they arrived. Decorations included maps and travel posters. As our ladies arrived, we had 2 "skycaps" who took their luggage into one of the sleeping areas. They were then escorted into the main dining/meeting area, where their boarding pass was taken (to be used in door prize drawings) and a Polaroid photo was taken to be used on the front of their "passport." The passport was a small booklet of blank pages. We encouraged the ladies to "stamp" each other's passports with words of encouragement and kindness.

After their photo was taken, and while waiting for everyone to arrive, we had several activities: a large world map for everyone to mark the furthest distance they had traveled, paper and instructions for making paper airplanes, and a trivia game. "Travel guides" were at each place setting with schedules, and other pertinent info about the retreat. Welcome announcements were given similar to those right before a plane takes off.

The highlight was dinner. We had prepared trays of wrapped food in advance, and served it flight attendant style on carts! We also had a drink cart with cans of pop, plastic cups and ice.

Door prizes were mostly travel-related, including luggage tags, travel mugs, atlases, etc. Games played involved cramming suitcases full, and finding cities on our state map. Teaching topics were titled "Packing for Life" and "Finding Your Way". This was an original, and extremely fun!, theme to plan around!! We received wonderful reviews on it!

Submitted_by

Amy Harris, Special Events Coordinator, North Heartland Community Church Women's Ministry (amyharris@kc.rr.com)

Theme_Title

Creativity

Based_On

Genesis 1:1, Gen. 1:26a, Col 1:16, Isaiah 44:2

Description

The women were invited to a morning of creativity 2 weeks prior to the even with a poster as well as a token invitation which was crafted by several of our members: a little wood stocking mounted on a bar-b-q stick, covered with mac tac on each side and ribbon around the edge. The invitation was attached on the bar-b-q stick below the stocking. At the door we had basket with a suggested donation to cover costs so that those who could not afford it would not feel obligated with a set "price" and those who could pay more. They were given name tags of different colors to go with different tables to mix the group so they wouldn't sit with the same women they always sit with. Each woman was then invited to make a small "lamp" from a wine glass, transparent creative memories-type paper, ribbon and a candle. They were so creative in their variations. Some of them bought all the extra supplies to make more for their friends. It should be noted that the specialty paper supplies had been donated by a church in the U.S. who had sent supplies for a missionary women's retreat and these were the leftover supplies, used for a national women's ministry. We were greatly blessed. The speaker then spoke on creativity taking ideas from the book "Whack on the Side of the Head" to help us know how to get our creative juices flowing in whatever area our creative gift was. She also showed us how God's creativity was measured out to each of us in the Scripture, and how we are such beautiful creations, created with a purpose. Tying in the salvation plan, 2 women accepted Christ that day in response to an invitation to pray.

Submitted_by

kzkuka@jmf.org.ph Since we are missionaries mail can be sent to our mission headquarters at SEND International Box 513 Farmington, MI 48332

Theme_Title

Gingerbread House Mother Daughter Night

Based_On

Christmas time...

Description

Christmas theme. The Ginger bread houses are ordered in kits and icing provided to assemble the house. The Mothers and Daughters pay a fee $15 per person to attend the evening and take their own lollies to decorate the gingerbread houses. The houses are then wrapped in Cellophane and Ribbon. Best decorated house wins prize. Its becoming a traditional Christmas Event held at the church. We have a guest speaker from the ministry team and supper provided.

Submitted_by

barbara lukies firstplaceaustralia@hotmail.com Wollongong NSW Australia

Theme_Title

"Only Angels Can Wing It"

Based_On

Description

The theme came from a video of Liz Curtis Higgs. We are a small church and can't afford to have her here in person, so that was next to the best thing of having her here in person. This event was held in December, a time for our ladies in our church to take a break from the hussle & bustle of Christmas. We showed the video & then following that we had a cookie exchange in our fellowship hall. It was a nice relaxing evening. We served some of the cookies & also provided childcare.

Submitted_by

lharper@paducah.com Clinton, Kentucky

Theme_Title

Chocolate Kiss off party

Based_On

What does bible study and chocolate have in common ...Used to start a new study on the Tender Commandments

Description

Chocolate community interview video presentation Ten commandments of chocolate Chocolate kiss flowers center pieces and pot luck with death by chocolate for dessert all this to introduce the new study and to have an outreach program in the community

Submitted_by

sharonguinn@charter.net

Theme_Title

The Old-fashioned Ladies Tea

Based_On

Mrs.Roosevelt's quote that women are like tea bags; when the heat gets turned up, you can see what we're made of (paraphrased)

Description

Every lady brought a favorite or special tea pot to display and also use for a table decoration. A word find was created using words related to a tea, and boxes of specialty teas were given as door prizes. Small sandwiches were served and it was like a grown-up tea party!

Submitted_by

james417, Joplin, MO

Theme_Title

Silver Boxes

Based_On

Gift of Encouragement

Description

Silver everything...using the Silver Anniversary Decorations made it easier......silver plates, napkins, balloons, everything was silver.

The ideas was that every word that we share can be a word of discouragement or "encouragement". It can hurt, kill or destroy or it can be words that lift up, cause someone to keep going and spur them on. Our words to each other are like little "gifts" or "silver boxes" that we give to each other. At each place setting was a little silver box with pieces of paper inside that had "encouraging words" that we might share. As a part of the program we had each lady take sticky notes and place an encouraging word or statement on them and then go give that person a hug and give them a "pat on the back" causing that sticky note to stick to their back. They received a 1)hug and 2) encouraging word to read later, when they got undressed. It was fun!

Submitted_by

Debbie Hand, Ringwood, Oklahoma

Theme_Title

Spicin' Up The Holidays

Based_On

Preparing our Women to "Keep Christ in Christmas"

Description

We held this event on a Saturday in late October from 10-2 pm. Each woman had the opportunity to attend 3 workshops including easy holiday recipes (they were able to sample the tasty treats!), scrapbooking & card making, and an interior decorator showed many simple ways to "spice" up your home for the holidays. All the ladies were members or guests of our church that led the workshops, so we did not have to pay them a fee...we just gave them a small gift as a token of appreciation. We served a light lunch and enjoyed blessing the ladies with lots of fun holiday themed door prizes that our committee had rounded up....the highlight of our time together was our speaker who shared about "Keeping Christ in Christmas." The women were so excited about preparing for the holidays this year! We combined fall & Christmas for decorations. The tables each had a pumpkin with a small scarecrow sitting on top and we used fall napkins...the dessert table was decorated for Christmas as well as the backdrop for our speaker. We charged $10 per ticket. The women are already asking if we will do this again next year!

Submitted_by

hphinney@sbcglobal.net First Baptist Hurst, Hurst Texas

Theme_Title

One Nite!

Based_On

Annual Birthday Party for the Women in the Church

Description

Birthday Party decorations (can do over the hill theme, Happy 29th, or general birthday stuff) The women bring a gift of a certain value or price range & the day is filled with various birthday games & at the end of the day, the winners pick the wrapped gift of their choosing (games like people bingo, sit down if you..., or any interactive group activity)& finally ending with a game for everyone that includes things like; "if you have ever put peanuts in your coke, grab a gift" until everyone has a gift. By the end of the day the women have made new friends, played, and made to feel very special. Have one large Happy Birthday cake and invite (prior to the day) different groups of women in the church to sing varying birthday songs. The with the reminder that we are to be kind to each other, even the strangers, based on Philippians 2:1-3 Party favors (book marks, etc..) to this effect would be a good reminder of their day together.

Submitted_by

Rochelle Wheeler, First Baptist Church, Forsyth, Missouri

Theme_Title

"Cruisin' with the King in 2003"

Based_On

Psalm 42:7 Deep calls unto deep. Daughters of the King are called to move beyond surface living. Challenge: Identify where you are and consider taking the next step. Respond to your calling!

Description

Our most recent ladies gathering was a dinner cruise like atmosphere & program. It was a great success. Entrance: The "Cruise Director" welcomes you to the "Royal Cruise Ship" The sound of ocean waves crashing on the shore (CD) as you notice the "bridge" made out of pallets (the kind bricks are transported on) lined with tiki torches. Stop at the counter for check-in and to receive your boarding pass (a custom decorated sleeve made out of an envelope and cut to hold a tri-fold info sheet on one side and picture sketch on the reverse to go along with devotional) A pen was included. The picture sketch was of several people at the beach, each one at a different stage - a spectator watching others from under an umbrella and someone in the deep calling for help with a boat coming to the rescue and everything I could think of in between. A gifted teenager drew this figment of my imagination. As each woman checked in she was given her decorated, personalized name tag. The "Reservation Specialists" keep up the fun by asking if they are US Citizens, has anyone had access to their purse, do they have any luggage to check...etc.

Then enter the room decorated for the evening. Many tables with blue cloths, silver mesh, silver beads and candle centerpieces. The paper napkins were folded in the shape of a crown. The tables had all but their plate & drink at each setting. The program consisted of our own ladies singing inspirational or uplifting songs, skits, some led silly sing-along that required participation to include the whole group but all songs kept our focus on Jesus and fellowship with each other. Devotional times were strategically placed twice in the program. Our "cruise director" was a 17 yr. old high school senior. She introduced each person on the program (as if we had never heard of them... just a little more hamming it up) The meal was served by 7 of our men as we went through the line in the Polynesian Room (an area behind the lattice work in the same room of our program decorated with bamboo, tiki torches, and colorful hanging lights).. The men wore white shirts with black bow ties and served a catered meal that had been delivered to the church.

The stage had a backdrop of silver lining with greenery on each side, a spotlight because lights were low with candles at the tables, and colored lights reflecting above the very small staging area. The sides of the room were decorated to look as if you could see out portholes to the moonlit water. The element of surprise kept people wondering what was next. The E-Ticket in the boarding pass was not a program outlining the evening. For entertainment the idea was to have people that you wouldn't expect to see doing things... It takes a special touch from the Lord to prompt those people to respond but He touched and they responded and it was wonderful. It was not only for His Glory but also from His Glory. We are so thankful to be cruisin' with the King.

Submitted_by

Sharon Byrum Corpus Christi, TX sharby@copper.net

Theme_Title

Back to School Night

Based_On

First Women's Meeting in September after summer was over

Description

Everyone was told to bring an old high school picture of themselves, dress like you "did back then". All the pictures were posted. As the laughter died down from laughing at each other, the ministry leaders each shared their vision and passion for the coming "school year". It set the tone for a fun environment, and seemed to "break the ice" for months to come.

Submitted_by

graham4him@prodigy.net Grand Junction, CO

Theme_Title

Little Elves Christmas Workshop

Based_On

Preparation for Christmas - practical & spiritual

Description

Dessert, demonstrations and dirty hands night

Submitted_by

slwillett@shaw.ca, Langley, B.C.

Theme_Title

Snowflake Tea

Based_On

Kick-off event for our new Women's Ministry

Description

Personal invitations were given to the ladies of the church and follow up phone calls were made. Upon entering the building the ladies followed a "snowflake path" to the room. Candles and balloons also led the way. A sign-in table had name-tags and decorated with a flower arrangement and balloons and a candle. The room was transformed with snowflakes hanging from the ceiling, candle light, white Christmas lights, lighted fig trees, classical music, and white lighted twig trees. The menu was veggies, cheese balls/crackers, small sandwiches, specialty cookies, variety of teas, iced cappuccino. Each lady had a snowflake cookie with her name on it. Recipe books of the nights "Goodies" were taken home. Following the tea, devotions involving the uniqueness of each person like snowflakes were given. The new ministry was then presented. The evening took about 2 hours and everyone had a grand time. The time and work involved was well worth the effort. This was the ministry teams gift to the women.

Submitted_by

Tbearmanor@aol.com Denise Skidmore Team Leader for the Daisy Days Women's Ministry of Living Water Church Clarksburg, WV 26301

Theme_Title

"Being a Daisy in a World Full of Weeds"

Based_On

used women in the Bible that were Daisies among the weeds of life. Used an acrostic of the word Daisy as it refers to our walk with Christ. Did a power point presentation using a Daisy with the letters on each bloom.

Description

This was used as one of the 4 women dinners we do each year. We did this on a Sat. night. Each round table was decorated in yellow, green and white. In the middle of the tables we had drawn very large round tagboard daisies. In the center of the daisy, each table had their own "daisy" cake that a local bakery designed for us. Each place setting was given a Daisy pen and daisy note cards that we had designed.

Submitted_by

Debe Tobim dlt1958@aol.com Greensboro, NC 27406

Theme_Title

Where a new day is dawning

Based_On

Lamentations 3:21-23

Description

We set up 10 tables. One for each era, the 1900's, 1920's, through to the year 2000 and did one also for the future. Each table was decorated according to that decade, 1940's used the wartime era, the hostess was dressed as Rosie the riveter. the 50's were decorated with 45 RPM's and the hostesses wore poodle skirts, oxford shoes and had their hair in pony tails and chewed bubble gum. It was a lot of fun, we did the 60's and 70's the 80's was the me, me generation (Big hair). The first 50 years was a building up of our God and country, while the next 50 years it began to decline. We placed different things of trivia around to see who would notice it. Then we asked them riddles, like little green army men were placed on the 70's table. Cell phones, were placed on the 2000 table. We did research to see what was popular in the decade and decorated the table accordingly. In the 30's, Gone with the Wind was popular, we had a dress hanging that was similar to it, plus posters. It was very educational and so much fun.

Submitted_by

christine.mcphail@verizon.net New Port Richey, FL

Theme_Title

Bride of Christ Women's Banquet

Based_On

Rev. 19:7 Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and the bride has made herself ready.

Description

We are having our annual women's banquet the Tuesday before mother's day this year. and out theme is Bride of Christ. We are decorating it like a wedding reception with women's wedding dresses, cake toppers and old wedding bouquets for centerpieces and having a wedding cake also. we are going to have the women renew their vows to Christ for their commitment to this "marriage". Our women are really excited about using their old wedding dresses and veils and all that goes with it. We'll use the wedding bubbles for the school age girls gifts and other gifts for the women. We are also using this as a mission project. We'll have the women bring gifts to put on the gift table like you do at a real wedding and this will be for the children's home and crisis pregnancy center that are near us.

Submitted_by

Grishkm@aol.com Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, Cabot, AR

Theme_Title

Being A LIGHT in A DARK WORLD

Based_On

Take the LIGHT into a Dark World

Description

I used this theme for a women's dinner for our church to encourage women to get involved in reaching other women that they come in contact with each day. Each table was decorated in black and yellow and then for center pieces we used candles. (to represent us) Each place setting was given a candle with an acrostic of the word LIGHT. I used this to explain first: what LIGHT does ..it Lifts our Spirits /illuminates darkness/guides/gives HOPE/transforms and I had a visual object that tied in with each point. The second thing I used was various items to help women to think about the question "What type of Light are YOU?" A match/a candle/ a light bulb of various wattage or a light connected to Christ. I also had different women in the church that had used different ways to minister or share Christ. This was a very effective dinner to encourage women to share their faith exactly where they are in their lives.

Submitted_by

Debe Tobin/DLT1958@aol.com Greensboro, NC

Theme_Title

Mother/Daughter Banquet

Based_On

Description

A few years ago our ladies ministry had a Mother/Daughter Banquet. The women of the church were to bring their daughters (teenage and above) to a sit down, fancy meal. If a lady did not have a daughter she could bring a step daughter, mother, sister, etc. Our meal was catered by a local restaurant and the tables were decorated in fine array. The men of the church were the servers and brought the meals to the tables along with refilling beverages. Lovely music was played throughout the meal and a poem was read about mothers. It was a very nice evening and everyone seemed to enjoy it.

Submitted_by

restmin@iolky.com

Theme_Title

God's Fruitbearers

Based_On

Galatians 5:22-25

Description

Retreat. Fruit and a variety of breads. At the end of the retreat every participant received some to take with them.

Submitted_by

JDixon@att.net Baltimore, MD

Theme_Title

Fill My Cup, Lord

Based_On

Topic: deepening your walk with God through prayer

Description

Retreat with various presentations on prayer, including Beth Moore video "A Woman and Her God"; decorations include mugs to take home; refreshments include coffee/tea bar;

Submitted_by

livanallen@yahoo.com, Cedar Rapids, IA

Theme_Title

THERMOSTAT OR THERMOMETER

Based_On

Theme_Title

PUZZLED FOR LIFE

Based_On

I CORINTHIANS 12:12-31 We are one body with many parts all fitting together and needed just like a puzzle.

Description

We had a bulletin board promoting our ladies Saturday brunch that had a 24 piece puzzle of Winnie the Pooh and the gang. We left some of the puzzle pieces, including some of the faces scattered to the side along with the caption, "PUZZLED ABOUT WHERE YOU FIT IN?" The brunch information was on the board. Similar posters were placed around the church promoting the event. At the brunch each woman received a single jumbo puzzle piece. (I found several 10-piece preschool puzzles of Winnie the Pooh and friends.) They then found the other ladies that had pieces to the same puzzle. That determined the table where they sat and that fostered fellowship among ladies that may not have known one another. The women's ministry director spoke on the need for each lady to be a part of the ministry to make the picture complete. Surveys were passed out to access needs and discover potential workers. Door prizes based on the puzzle theme were given out. This included a Thomas Kincaid Jigsaw Puzzle, and an Evangecube puzzle cube, and a basket with a puzzle book, mug, candy bar, and teas. A door prize was given to the winner of an ice-breaker game we played and prizes were given to several whose names were drawn from the basket of returned surveys.

Submitted_by

Beth Denison, Ladies Ministry Director mdenison@ntin.net Gainesville, Texas

Theme_Title

Hugs from Heaven

Based_On

1 Thess 5:11-13

Description

Our speaker spoke on encouragement--first through her testimony of a crisis time in her life, then how Jesus encourages us, and finally in ways we can be encouraging to one another. Our retreat was held on Friday night beginning with a dinner served by some of the men of the church. Saturday morning we returned to the church for continental breakfast followed by a time of music, our speaker, then box lunches, more special music and our speaker again. The retreat was held in the fall and we used mums and fall colors in the decorations. We gave each lady a small gift at each session--on Friday night, we had notepads with scriptures and a magnet with the scripture for the weekend; Saturday morning, they each had an encouragement bag at their place when they arrived; and during the break before lunch, we placed votive candleholders at each place. At the end of the retreat we told them the candles were to remind them to be the light of encouragement for someone else. Our speaker talked a lot about lambs and the Shepherd and all the music was along that line. Before, afterwards, and during break times, we had some crafters who set up tables with various items for sale--quilts, Creative Memories, Baskets, Pampered Chef, etc. Our goal was to send the ladies home feeling like they'd had a "Hug from Heaven." Judging by their survey comments, I think we succeeded!

Submitted_by

pharris@imb.org Glen Allen, VA

Theme_Title

"Removal of the Mask" - Ladies Testimonial Burch

Based_On

Job 23:10

Description

decorations: mini masks, and flowers were the place settings we also placed cameras (disposable) at each table for the women to take photos of the table participants. Each table was seated with a woman who would give a testimony by song or statement at each table. No one other than the speaker at each table knew who would give the testimony. It was a day of sharing in triumphs. We determined the testimony topics but did not reveal it until each person was called for their testimony. Topics included: forgiveness after abortion, healing from life threatening disease, death of a child and the will to have other children, finding purpose in your later years, trusting God through financial adversity and others.

Submitted_by

margaret griffin mgriffin@allentempleame.org woodstock, ga

Theme_Title

April Showers of Blessings

Based_On

Malachi 3:10

Mal. 3:10 God pours out blessings Malachi 3:10 God Pours out His Blessings

Description

Decorate with umbrellas with translucent ribbon to make "Rain". We use it for a monthly meeting. Have several share what God has done for them. Each person brings a gift for the Pregnancy Center, Mission or Single Parent personal care baskets to be given to them at a later time. Refreshments were fruit kabobs with a small party umbrella attached. This is one event they want to have repeated.

Submitted_by

Lfriz@msn.com Colo. Springs, Co

Theme_Title

Bride of Christ

Based_On

Description

This is always a popular theme for the spring luncheon and ideas have already been shared for decorating. You might like to add a Love Letter. It can be placed in a picture frame you can obtain at a dollar store, or printed on beautiful stationary and addressed to each attendee. We compiled this from scripture. To My Bride

How beautiful you are my darling, Your inner self is unfading for I created you fearfully and wonderfully.

I delight in you and will always love you gently. How great is the love that I want to lavish on you! I long to be the desire of your heart.

Do not be afraid, for I will never leave you. I am yours and you are mine. So make yourself ready my beloved I await the day I can share my glory with you!

Submitted_by

Stephanie Fullerton Heart of the Canyons Church Madtalk@pacbell.net

Theme_Title

Spirit Quilt

Based_On

A quote from the Woman's Book of Soul by Sue Patton Thoele A quote from the book The Woman's Book of Soul by Sue Patton Thoele. "Each time we gather in a sisterly circle that calls forth our best, a new pattern is stitched into the fabric of the Spirit Quilt that we are fashioning together, and we are warmed and protected by it's folds."

Description

A dinner with speaker. Publicity posters were made from poster board covered with quilt print fabric cut with pinking shears and taped on. Information was printed on colored paper and cut out with pinking shears and taped to the fabric in patches. The night of the event the fabric was removed from the posters and used as toppers on the tablecloths. The centerpieces were small clotheslines on which squares of contrasting quilt print fabric was hung with tiny clothespins. The hall was hung with quilts provided by church members with a personal history attached.

Submitted_by

mcassady@fumclr.org Little Rock, AR

Theme_Title

Beautiful Inside and Out!

Based_On

Learning to glorify God with our inner and outer beauty

Description

We used this for a monthly women's meeting in our church and the ladies loved it! The pastor's wife, me, sells MARY KAY cosmetics. I did a facial/makeover on myself in front of the women and gave them cleansing and make-up tips. I took all my make-up off in front of them and then reapplied it to show them the details. I took questions from them while doing the demonstration. (no talk of selling any products was mentioned. I stated that these tips could be used with any products that the women preferred. I was very careful about that!) That took about 20-25 minutes. We then had another woman come and speak about what it means to be a beautiful woman on the inside, by your character and spirit. She used scriptures out of 1 Peter 3:3-6. She spoke for 20 minutes. We ended the evening with prayer and a dessert and coffee bar. A door prize of a bag full of cosmetic samples was given away. It is a really neat thing to bring an unchurched friend to.! We kept the decorations very simple on the tables, potted silk African violets and ivy. The women gathered their chairs up around the make-up table for the demonstration.

Submitted_by

Andrea Vernon Logansport, IN loganvine@kconline.com

Theme_Title

A Fruitful Spring!

Based_On

John 15:1-5 Bearing fruit.

Description

This ministry event idea was a big success for our wm. The event was based on John 15:1-5, bearing fruit. We decorated the room with many varieties of plants, flowers, and silk greenery vines. Fruit baskets were used as the centerpieces for the tables, and given away at the end as door prizes. Each place setting had a packet of seeds of either fruit or flowers, along with the scripture verses printed on beautiful pastel paper and rolled into a scroll with a colorful ribbon. For the seeds, you should use what is best grown in your area. At the front of the room, behind the podium where our speaker was presenting, we had one side decorated with dried flowers, dried fruit and old twigs. On the other side, we had the lively greenery with fresh flowers and a silk mini lemon tree. Both represented the things in our lives. The dried, old side, represented the things we must ask the Lord to remove, and the lively side represented the things we should strive to increase in our lives - private time with the Lord, family, ministry and other relationships. At the end, many of the ladies gave testimonies about how they had areas in their lives that seemed ‘dry’ and how God ‘pruned’ them out and now they are 'fruitful’ in that area. It was awesome! We committed the follow up to be at the end of the summer, when all the women will bring their seed packets and pictures of the 'fruit' that bloomed in their lives!

Submitted_by

Rhonda, rhondadbyrd@hotmail.com, Riverside, CA

Theme_Title

Mother's Day Brunch

Based_On

"We are His Precious Children and Greatly Loved"

Description

"HATS" The theme for our Mother/Daughter Brunch is HATS--The buffet table will be decorated like a wedding reception. Very elegant. But, each setting table (24) will be themed with a different HAT that women wear in their lives. Such as..cheerleader; dr.; taxi cab driver; teacher; accountant; chef; maid; etc. For the mothers, my heart is help them to see how valuable they are and to the daughters, to see how much their mothers do or have done for them.

Submitted_by

Dlt1958@aol.com Greensboro, NC

Theme_Title

Make Your Words Presents to Give Away

Based_On

Ephesians 4:29; Provs. 25:11

Description

Theme taken from book "Silver Boxes" by F.Littauer. We used this at our ladies meeting, but it could easily be developed into a retreat. We used all sizes of boxes and wrapped them in shiny silver paper with silver bows on top as centerpieces on each table. At each place seating we place a placemat with scriptures on the importance of our words and a poem about kind words. Our speaker spoke on how, scripturally, it is our responsibility to make sure our words are kind and uplifting. We are to be encouragers - different from the world. We gave everyone little tiny presents wrapped in silver cellophane with silver cording on small handouts that said, "Our words should be like little presents all wrapped up to be given away." They could keep the "package" to remind them to watch what they say, or they could give the silver package to someone who has been a "Silver Box" in their life.

Submitted_by

Igge - Abilen, Texas

Theme_Title

showers of blessing

Based_On

Psalm 30:5, Song of Sol. 2:11,12,

Description

I used little plastic umbrellas upside down for favors and put things in them.. (tiny bouquet of flowers with a blessing attached, a chorus >O, the suns gonna shine again, after all the rain and the flowers will bloom again like they do every spring.. So look up to the Lord, take courage, too. put your trust in God and He will see you thru..<, etc....) I had a soloist sing the verses..1)WE cannot see thru every cloud, the darkness surrounds us and dims our path, but walk on thru the shadows, Christ will lead the way.. soon the storm will be over, there'll dawn a brighter day...2) The days are dark, the nights are lonely, tears fall from my eyes, like the noonday rain but in the midst of my troubles, I hear a sweet voice say.. soon the storm will be over, there'll dawn a brighter day...we had a devotional on.. into each life a little rain must fall...but!!!!! I decorated with raindrops and flowers.. mints were raindrops, cake was covered with edible flowers, sandwiches cut with rainbow cookie cutter and multicolored filling, punch with floating flowers inside ice cubes and lots of blooming spring flowers around...I found tulip plates and cups and napkins with wrapped with a silk flower...centerpiece was a large umbrella in a pot of flowers with raindrops attached to points of umbrella with encouraging scriptures attached...we had a time of pick a partner, visit with her a couple of minutes and then we told something encouraging about our partner.. everyone really enjoyed it...If you're really into fun.. I went out a few minutes before time to speak and put on a yellow raincoat and galoshes and came in with the biggest umbrella I could find as we sang.. send down the rain. cause without the rain there'd be no flowers.. I handed each lady a flower from my basket as I passed...After the program, I had them take the small umbrella home and hang it in their kitchen window as a reminder...

Submitted_by

cwsbjs@dtccom.net

Theme_Title

Working Women's Come & Go Lunch

Based_On

Matthew 28:18-20

Description

I want to add an idea for your idea bank...the last e-newsletter spurred me on to write as the idea written was about a working women's brunch. Each year for the past 3 years, one of the outreach events that our women's ministries puts on is what we call a "working women's come & go lunch" - targeting working women, but not excluding anyone else who wants to come. In 2001 & 2002 we held it at our local Friendship Centre since it is right in the downtown area. Because of that we had to hire the center's caterer - at $7.50 a plate, plus pay for the rental of the facility. The reason we held it there was to have it be a non-threatening event - sometimes women are scared to come into a church building when they have not been in one for years! Because of the rising catering costs, we decided to have it at our own church, and have our women prepare the food - at less than $3 a plate - and we only charged $4 a ticket instead of $8. Our faith goal was that 100 ladies would attend, as the past two years averaged 75. Wow! Were we amazed! We had almost 200 attend! We kept it spiritually light - in fact, the only spiritual thing was the church building itself, since there was no spiritual talk at all. We had various women sing and play instruments (as background music) and had one of our local landscape experts talk twice for 10 minutes each time (1st time - getting your garden ready for spring, 2nd time - what is new in the greenhouse this year). This year, our theme for the lunch was "Take A Break", and from the responses we heard, the women there truly felt like they took a break. We had colorful flowers and napkins for decor. And we had great door prizes (all donated by local businesses) - the grand prize was a day at our local day spa - pedicure, manicure, body massage, haircut & style, makeup, and more, worth over $150. If we can pull off something like this in rural Manitoba, then you can too! Start with lots of prayer! We had specific prayer times before the event, during the lunch itself, and after the event. If you want more details, or to give me some other ideas on the lunch theme, please email me, I would love to hear from you.

Submitted_by

Corissa Dyck Morden, Manitoba, Canada mordenac@mts.net

Theme_Title

Ladies Night Out~ Dress Your Favorite Decade!

Based_On

Eccl 3:1 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: NIV Throw the junk from the past away, but keep what is classic (pure, lovely and true).

Description

Ladies dress in outfits from the 20's to the 80's- big hair is back! Have a fashion show and give prizes for the prettiest, funniest and most outrageous outfits.

Submitted_by

SKC1085@aol.com River of Life Church in Martin, Michigan

Theme_Title

The Backroom Fashions

Based_On

Fashion Show with designs out of a backroom storage or clearance rack, being the ugliest put together outfit you've every seen. Modeling it, like you think it's the best design you have ever seen. I got the idea from a Goody's Store that has a backroom clearance room, clothes they cannot sell. There were some of the ugliest clothes you've ever seen.

Description

We had fancy tea sets and china for a "High Tea" with finger sandwiches and finger deserts. Spring table clothes with lit candles for center pieces, tulle and silver bows as backdrops, Christmas lights to make a runway.

Submitted_by

gator18@earthlink.net

Theme_Title

Standing in the Gap

Based_On

Ezekiel 22:30

Description

Special music: standing in the gap for you. We had a Gap fashion show. It was our fall kick off. Featured were the Fall Women's bible study leaders each giving a 5 minute review of their study -- like selling it to the women. In our church of about 700 members, we had 130 women attend this event! We had pot luck and ate outdoors.

Submitted_by

rhonda@rhondawebb.com

Theme_Title

Hats Off to Women

Based_On

Acknowledge the many roles we play as women

Description

This was our spring brunch. Instead of a Mother/Daughter focus, we called it an All Daughters Brunch since we are all God's children and so we could encourage all the ladies in our church to attend. We got donated items and put them together to make different centerpieces for each table. Centerpieces were themed. Examples are; The Traveling Gal; The Cooking Gal; The Shopping Gal; The Teaching Gal; The Fitness Gal; The Relaxing Gal; and so on. The centerpieces were then auctioned off as a fundraiser at the end of the event. We placed different types of hats all around the room for decorations along with helium balloons tied to the centerpieces. For an Ice Breaker we played "Find a Friend Bingo" which helped the ladies get acquainted and celebrate their similarities and differences. It was a great time for everyone.

Submitted_by

cheryl.garcia@sbcglobal.net

Theme_Title

On The Go!

Based_On

Taking a break for the summer

Description

For years I have met with 5 other ladies every Friday morning. We take turns providing a light breakfast with coffee, tea, and juice. Over the years we have done short devotionals but focused mainly on praying for each others needs. This Spring we did the study "Beloved Disciple" by Beth Moore timing it so we would end on the last Friday in May. Because of commitments with family, church and missions, we opted to take the summer off this year. Because of this, I wanted to send each lady out the door with a "To Go Box" to feast on during the summer.

I purchased large, plain white Chinese Take Out boxes. I sponge painted them in bright colors, put a small amount of colored paper shreds in the bottom, and filled the box with slips of paper on which I had typed Scripture promises, praises and prayers. To be exact, there are 90 Scriptures because it will 90 days until we meet again. I made tags for the handle of the take out box: "Scriptures-To-Go: Promises, Praises, and Prayers To Feast On Through The Summer"! I encouraged each lady to take a Scripture a day and use it as the foundation for her daily quiet time and to be ready to share how the Holy Spirit inspired her during the summer! I look forward to hearing "how the Spirit and I spent our summer vacation" when we reunite at the end of August.

Submitted_by

Theme_Title

Focusing on Christ

Based_On

PS 119:18 Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law." Letting God adjust your focus to move you into new areas of ministry. We are coming to God with great expectation!

Description

Music... Turn you eyes upon Jesus... Open the eyes of my heart We decorated with plastic children's sunglasses, magnifying glasses and small looking glasses. We used bright summer colors and flowers on the tables. We had picnic food, party mix and chips and dips. Blind fold or have them close their eyes then, every one writes their names it's fun to see what they've written.

Submitted_by

Sharon, Sacramento, slh0320@cs.com

Theme_Title

See, Hear, Touch, Smell and Taste that He is GOOD!

Based_On

Used as a retreat or 5 weeks of separate programs--one each week, this general theme explores God with ALL our senses: see, hear, smell, taste and touch. Each topic touches on a different sense and different idea/scripture.

Description

Decorations differ for each topic/sense. These can be done in any order. For a retreat, each topic would be done at a different "station". This could also be done as a once a month "special program" that includes a time of fellowship...each topic being done each month for 5 months. SEE: Matthew 6:22, "The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light..” What are you filling your eyes with?! Feed them with His Holy Word. Possible lesson plan ideas: reasons to be in His Word…discuss distractions from daily time in the Word and solutions…how to study the Word…different ways to approach Bible reading…sharing—personal and family devotion ideas. Will include a scavenger hunt. Can be done individually or broken into groups. A verse will be quoted and an object named. The ladies must find the verse in the Bible and the object (in their purse or in the room). Example: "The Sovereign Lord will wipe away the tears from all faces.."; find a tissue--they would have to come up with Isaiah 25:8 AND a tissue. The person (or group) with the most correct wins a prize (devotional book, Bible study organizer, or journal). Decorations could include eye charts, magnifying glasses, sun glasses of all shapes and sizes, silly nose glasses. Might give out little tissue packs and/or single samples of "artificial tears". HEAR: John 10:27, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me.” Possible lesson plan ideas: focus on listening to the Holy Spirit/to God's still small voice....learning to recognize when God's guiding and when you are trying to proceed without Him....learning to have/find/appreciate quiet time alone with God. Could also focus on praise and worship with music. Include active listening techniques...have the ladies practice them together. Decorations would depend on the overall focus but suggest "serenity theme"---candles, quiet music; or headphones, speakers, telephones...anything we listen to.. TASTE: Psalm 34:8, “Taste and see that the Lord is good…” If possible, contact the ladies and invite them to bring their favorite potluck dish to share along with one recipe (these will be collected and made into a simple cookbook for all who attend...they'll receive it at the end of the retreat or at the end of the five week program). Lesson ideas could go several ways: first, if possible, have a nutritionist who is a Christian explore Biblically sound nutrition advice; have a nutritionist/health expert parallel our bodies need for life-giving water and our soul's need for the Living Water; shifting the focus to our mouths/tongues---explore how our words can be used to hurt or heal/curbing gossip/speaking the truth with love and discernment. Decor would be food oriented with cornucopia baskets with real/fake fruits & breads spilling out or use cookbooks, kitchen implements, aprons and such. SMELL: 2 Corinthians 2:14, “But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him.” Possible lesson plans: spreading the Good News without fear; giving an effective testimony. OR using John 12:3 (Mary pours perfume on Jesus' feet in an act of devotion) explore the idea of being a humble and willing servant...a "foot washer"...devoted to being poured out and offered up for His use. Decor would include potpourri and candles but it is suggested that these be left open prior to the event to let some of the scent evaporate so it isn't overwhelming. Give out small scented sachets or have a craft time and make them! Finally, TOUCH: Proverbs 31:13,20 “She…works with eager hands…she…extends her hands to the needy.” 1 Thessalonians 5:11, “Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up…” Possible lesson plans explore our need for Christian fellowship; ways to encourage one another; ways to reach out to our community. A game that can be done with two volunteers or the whole group: tell them one woman must make a p-nut butter and jelly sandwich (have ingredients handy). Once someone is ready for this task, tell her she's got to do it blindfolded. Let her try, watch her make a mess...then tell her partner to be her guide--no touching! The partner will tell the blindfolded woman where to reach, etc. The point being that we are better together...each having skills to help get the job done and we all need help sometimes. As you can see, these are general "all-purpose" topics under the heading of "the five senses" and can be expanded and developed in many ways!

Submitted_by

Julianne Kelly, kellytroupe@yahoo.com, Fort Riley, KS

Theme_Title

WEIGHT REDUCTION

Based_On

Psalm 81:6-7

Description

One-Day Conference - focusing on women reducing stressful burdens and redirecting their energies -- a spin on the consuming thought/battle of the physical bulge. The decor is workout/exercise with each attendee coming in their sweats, etc.

Submitted_by

kindluvjoy@hotmail.com Daytona Beach,FL

Theme_Title

Treasures of the Heart

Based_On

For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. Luke 12:34

Description

We announced for ladies to bring special items to be put on display. The items could be anything that was meaningful to them, maybe what they collected, or maybe what their hobby was, or maybe a special ornament or gift from a loved one, etc. We displayed them on long tables decorated with a white table cloth. The tables also had books, boxes, or any item to give height, and then covered with cloth. This gave height & interest to the table. We then had each lady fill out an index card explaining their "treasure". Then we clipped it to the item. We surprised the ladies by having 12 tables decorated for each month of the year. We had 12 ladies (ahead of time) take one month and decorate accordingly. For example: June had birdhouses, August had a Barbie plastic swimming pool with Barbie dolls floating, Sept. had a little school desk, etc. We also had a little favor at each place that represented that month. When the ladies arrived, we directed them to their birthday month table for seating. If there were too many at one table and not enough at another, we just adjusted for ladies to sit at other tables. As an opener game, we announced for each table to find out something unusual about someone at their table. We then went around and had each table share which lady at their table had the best story. One lady shared that she went to school with Oprah Winfrey! then we gave a prize for the most unique story. Because this was more of an evening of fellowship and looking at the "treasure" table, we didn't have a speaker. We did have our Women's Coordinator share about the upcoming events; new cookbook coming out, secret sister info, next function, etc. She also gave a small devotional. It was a delightful evening seeing other people's "treasurers", sitting at a lovely decorated birthday month table, and laughing together. We left uplifted!

Submitted_by

dkprahl@charter.net

Theme_Title

Living a Life of Worship through Prayer

Based_On

Luke 10:38-42

Description

Retreat

Submitted_by

shirley.borner@med.va.gov Pineville, LA. 71360

Theme_Title

Discover God's Dream for Your Life

Based_On

Ps.20:4 and FOLLOW YOUR HEART book by Judy Peterson

Description

A "heart" theme which can be used for invitations, posters, decorations, and a plastic coated small card that repeats the Bible verse promise of Ps.20:4 and can be kept in someone's purse as a reminder. This theme lends itself well to a women's conference, and works great as an "inter-active" conference, with participants expressing some of their own dreams, challenges, and fears. It becomes a very bonding event, and also can be a networking event for Christian women who can benefit from suggestions and encouragement from others.

Submitted_by

jpeterson@tellink.net

Theme_Title

The Portrait of a Godly Woman

Based_On

Proverb 31

Description

We meet once a month for ten months and the purpose is to bring women into a higher level of devotion to God. To recognize their deficiencies and help them align themselves with the word of God and what God requires of us.

The decorations will consist of books by great christian women authors address the subject of Godly Women. Each guest will receive a gift bag that includes a journal, small NT Bible, pen, book mark etc.

Submitted_by

suttond@chi.osu.edu Columbus, Ohio

Theme_Title

Pirates Pillage

Based_On

story of Jonah

Description

tables to look like sail boats. party favors: rice crispy treats with sails cut out from card stock and straws. cake looks like treasure chest. map of treasure out lined with scripture to follow and do what is right. "Where your treasure is your heart is there also

Submitted_by

grannygooseberry@yahoo.com

Theme_Title

Spring Cleaning For the Heart

Based_On

Psalm 51:10 (NKJV) "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me."

Description

Our spring retreat: table decorations were feather dusters; clothesline & pins intertwined down the table; place settings were mini pails with candy, mini sponges with our verse attached and feathered pencils that resembled dusters with a dishrag folded like a fan placed upright behind them. Pails of pansies were set on rag rugs as centerpieces. We welcomed everyone with a sheet hung on a clothesline that had been painted with "Welcome to Spring Cleaning For the Heart". Our icebreaker was "Baptist Bingo" matching people to the proper experience square (e.g. "Has ridden a cow"). Had Blessing Bags where everyone had 3 assigned names to write an anonymous "You are a blessing because...." and drop it in their bag...plus they could write additional ones. This was such a hit for everyone. We all need encouragement. The other winner was our Paper Doll Prayer Dresses. We cut out paper doll type dresses from decorative papers and everyone received one upon registration. They then listed a prayer need anonymously on the back of the dress and hung it on our mini-clothesline we had strung between two windows. That need was to be prayed for during the entire weekend. At the proper time, everyone went and picked out a 1st session was based on Prov. 31 and getting organized... our remaining 4 sessions were based on "My Heart, Christ's Home" and we had 4 rooms of our heart's home set up: kitchen, living room, family room and bedroom. We focused on cleaning our own hearts and acceptance of one another just smoothly followed. We had an amazing response from the women who attended and although it's been 4 months ago, we are still hearing favorable comments. All programs were done "in-house" without any paid guest speakers and it was still quite a success. The Holy Spirit was definitely in charge of this one!

Submitted_by

Lynne Curtis First Baptist Church curtis@mo-net.com Cassville, MO

Theme_Title

Bizarre Ladies Church Bazaar

Based_On

The Joy of the Lord is our Strength!

Description

To give a little flavor and to show the public how much fun we "church ladies" have, we named our annual bazaar this way. We go out of our way to come up with unusual and crazy hats and encourage our vendors (usually unchurched people) to join in the fun and compete for a prize...it gets better every year!

Submitted_by

carolgalvin@hotmail.com Anchorage, Alaska

Theme_Title

Wearing of the "Green" Our new life in Christ!

Based_On

Green being the color of new life in the 'wordless book'

Description

A Women's retreat held on Saint Patrick's weekend, we did not focus on the holiday, but the new life we experience in Christ. The wordless book concept was carried thru in bracelets we made and gave to all those who attended....black bead=sin; red bead=blood of Jesus; white bead=sins washed white as snow; green bead=new life in Christ; blue bead= Holy Spirit; gold bead=eternal life on the streets of gold; we made several sizes with stretch line and filler beads of antique silver beads....Small groups were designated by the color of nametag. We had green food served the first night as snacks. Each room had Andes Mints on their pillows the first night. It was a fantastic time together to get away and build new relationships with women of all generations, to celebrate our life in Christ....We closed with the plan of salvation using the bracelets as a visual tool in explaining the gospel. A few have actually used them as a witnessing tool since! Jennifer Rothschild was our speaker, all enjoyed her loving spirit and truths she has learned as she has followed Christ in her life. We all set goals to achieve, and each placed them in an envelope, addressed to ourselves....they were mailed 3 months later as a reminder of the commitments we made at the retreat. It was a fantastic time!

Submitted_by

driskillk@prodigy.net MO

Theme_Title

A Southern Tea

Based_On

Idea was to have something light and fun with a speaker who was uplifting and inspirational

Description

Round tables were set by women in our church using their own china and centerpiece. Had scenes around the room of: (l) a porch scene using wicker porch furniture set for tea, (2) an old attic scene showing old things pulled out of a trunk, a rocker with quilts hanging on it, old hats, clothes, shoes laying around, (3) a tea party with a real little girl having tea with her teddy bears while the women had their tea. Each scene had windows with outside scenes. The entrance was decorated with about 50 beautiful green plants and an arbor for the women to enter under. Our pastor's wife sat in a rocker with a hand fan greeting the ladies. Hats, gloves, and pearls were optional

Submitted_by

beryl1021@aol.com, Beryl Richards, Prince Avenue Baptist Church, Athens, GA

Theme_Title

Walking Into Your Season

Based_On

The Book of Esther; The seasons of seed planting, spiritual growth, and harvest time.

Description

For a Retreat: Decor' - Purple velvet cloth for curtains attached to the wall. (Royalty) A small table with a gold table cloth with a bowl of fruit. In each additional corners of the room; garden for seed-planting with a rake and hoe; the same garden in waiting as roots are planted in the solid foundation; the plastic flowers in the garden for Harvest.

Submitted_by

tsanford4@yahoo.com, Houston, Texas

Theme_Title

Summer Celebration

Based_On

Romans 12:13 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality. (This is our focus verse for the year. Our special speaker at the event focused her talk around the verse.)

Description

Instead of doing a fall theme for our annual women's ministry kick-off for the year we decided to celebrate summer.

The table decorations consisted of beach towels, flip flops, beach toys and ocean themed bowls with floating flip flop and fish candles in them. Our fun food item was a smoothie bar where the ladies enjoyed creating their own smoothie's from the fresh fruit we had supplied. We had five blenders set up and let them pick from fruits such as bananas, mango, pineapple, strawberries, and blueberries. We mixed in a little vanilla yogurt and some white grape juice, then blended it all together. It was a fun time and some women had never had a smoothie before so this introduced them to a new type of healthy drink option.

The food table decorations included a vase of fresh daisies in bright tropical colors along with the flip flops, beach towel, beach toys and a large floating candle dish with candles. Our event took place in the early evening so instead of a large meal we opted to serve sweet and salty snacks. We had things such as home made Chex mix to a wonderful truffle made with Snickers candy bars and chocolate pudding.

For door prizes the ladies answered questions pertaining to summer vacations and other summer fun activities. The prizes were all themed around summer or garden activities. For favors we gave each lady a pewter note card clip whose base was either a flower, sea shell or butterfly.

The best part about doing a summer themed event at the end of the summer was we were able to spend very little on the decorations and gifts because all the stores had marked the summer stuff to half price! It was a nice, unforeseen perk that helped make our evening that much better.

Submitted_by

Tabitha Crouch, Oklahoma City, OK. Western Oaks Nazarene tncrouch@cox.net

Theme_Title

"Lei" It Down Luau

Based_On

"Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit is indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak." Matthew 26:41

Description

The first Sunday in August, we passed out to every lady in the congregation a lei, along with an invitation to our luau. We rented the country club pool and decorated with a Hawaiian theme. Each lady brought with her some time of dessert or appetizer. First we ate, then I brought a speech regarding laying down sin in our lives. I used a purse for greed or overspending(1 Timothy 6:10), an old ragged stuffed animal with pins to poke in it for unforgiveness (Matthew 5:43&44), GI Joe Ken and Barbie were used for adultery (Exodus 20:14)--this received a lot of laughs, a pink and blue fuzzy phone for gossip (Proverbs 20:19), and a sheet of green paper with the word envy written for envy (1 Corinthians 3:4). The ultimate way to lay all of this down is through prayer. A friend of mine sang On My Knees, and then each lady wrote out their struggles. After this, we put them in a can, burned sins and had prayer. This was very liberating. From that point we had a few games and swam until we had to leave. It was wonderful. I might be interested in doing this presentation for other groups of women!!!!

Submitted_by

Sdoss@townsqr.com Peace Valley, MO

Theme_Title

Spa Night

Based_On

Jesus washing the disciples feet

Description

Once a month the ladies of our church meet. I decided to treat the ladies with a foot spa night. I furnished the bath beads, lotions, nail polish and even cotton for between the toes. We read scripture on Jesus washing the disciples feet and the humbling of himself. It was very humbling to massage another's feet but also rewarding to make the older women feel so special. Several ladies went home and did their husbands feet just because it felt so good.

Submitted_by

Jan at Northwest Crossing Baptist Church in Houston, Texas

Theme_Title

Life: What A Trip!

Based_On

Psalm 16:11

Description

We used this theme for our kickoff to introduce fall activities.

Invitations were "Passports" with the speaker's picture, pertinent information and "stamps" that described the event (brunch, bring an item for the food pantry (our "Luxury Tax" etc.)

"Boarding Pass" was the name tag: "Heavenly Airlines departing from WEFC to Eternity via the Pearly Gate".

Decorations: black tablecloths with yellow streamers down the middle to resemble a road. Pages from an atlas for placemats. Rose in the center of the table (and given as a door prize) as a reminder to stop and "smell the roses" along the way. Travel posters and suitcases were used.

"Flight Attendants" (committee and youth helpers) wore bandannas with an angel pin on their shoulder.

Following the welcome, a Flight Attendant gave instructions: -the front exit is to the food table which functions from both sides -flotation devices, better known as coffee, tea, juice etc. are to the rear and left on the counter -the rear exit and left is to the bathrooms and we all know how important they are! -our Flight Attendants are here to make your flight one to remember. If you need something, please talk to one of them.

Following our brunch, we made and flew paper airplanes toward the cross which was lots of fun but followed that with "we can't get to the cross on our own". One of the women made her plane and then tore it to make a cross while she presented the gospel.

Our speaker's topic was "Faith Booking" which takes scrapbooking to a deeper level by integrating stories of faith and how God is working and influencing our life with photographs that help illustrate the story.

Displays showed how other ladies shared their faith and walk with God via journals, family histories, memoirs, cookbooks etc.

The day was all tied together by another one of our women sharing examples of those in the bible who took trips (Abraham, Joseph, Paul etc.) and how we can take a "trip" to eternity by accepting Christ as our Savior and an invitation was given.

We ended our morning with the song, "I'll Fly Away", and signup for the fall activities.

Submitted_by

swrightone@aol.com Windsor, CO

Theme_Title

The Kings Banquet

Based_On

Based on banquet talked about in Revelations where we are all invited to attend.

Description

Ladies in Uganda (Africa) work and sacrifice a lot and often don't get time for outings to eat good food. So a banquet was organized for both purposes of a good meal out and also for outreach. Ladies were asked to invite a minimum of 3 workmates or relatives and also to pay for a plate for themselves and one other person. Decorative invitation cards were given out with invitation to "The King's Banquet". The committee organized a good venue which was decorated with balloons and ribbons and we hired the services of a good caterer. We also got a good gospel pop group to sing and we asked various people to share testimonies and someone to share a ten minute evangelical message. We got a total of about 80 ladies all very smart and excited, though we had planned for about 60 ladies ...! The singing was good, the food good (though organizers eventually did not eat), very inspiring testimonies were share and 5 ladies made a commitment to the Lord. We were very pleased and excited and gave Glory to God!

Submitted_by

pserukka@spacenet.co.ug

Theme_Title

"Mirror, Mirror, on the Wall"

Based_On

What do you see when you look into the mirror? How do you see yourself?

Description

This is a theme I will be using this month within one of our lady's homes. The invitation flyer has a picture of both Snow White and her wicked stepmother (who's looking at her reflection in the mirror). I plan to hand out small (purse-sized) mirrors as take-home gifts for everyone. The discussion will revolve around how women see themselves and to reassure them of their worth and value. Will point out that as long as we keep Christ in our hearts, our reflection will of God's image. Will also address homemakers vs. housekeepers (for those stay-at-home moms who feel like they are not as valued in the home). The overall idea is to boost women's self-esteem.

Submitted_by

Marsha Gabbard mgabbard@juno.com Mason, Ohio

Theme_Title

Titus Tea Time

Based_On

Titus 2:1-8

Description

A tea party with the older women and younger women in the church. An informal, relational way to offer lessons in godly living to the younger women. Everyone gets or decorates a tea cup with a favorite verse. As the tea parties continue, you BYOC- bring your own cup and share something new God has shown you relevant to your verse.

Submitted_by

elee@bop.gov Baltimore MD

Theme_Title

His Royal Tea

Based_On

Romans 12:10-13

Description

The event is held in the summer as a connection time for the ladies. Many of our ladies are too busy to get involved but are able to attend a one time event. We wanted each lady to feel and understand that they are God's princess'. The room was set up with round tables and beige linen table cloths. Individuals were asked to hostess a table. They were given 6 tickets to pre-sale, one for themselves, one for their co-hostess and 4 for friends. The tables were set for 8. The balance of the tickets were sold to the church at large. Each team of hostesses were asked to bring a 8 place settings and given $10.00 toward a centerpiece for their table. The tables were all different and reflected different themes. We found a picture of a character type queen holding a teapot, enlarged her to about 4 feet and she set just inside the door. She was also on the 7.00 ticket. One of our high school students wore a British guard costume and was the doorman. As the ladies arrived, the co-hostess greeted them at the door while the hostess stayed at the table. A violinist played during the arrival. After the welcome we played the song "Getting to Know You" from the "King and I". When we asked the ladies how many of them had met someone new they all raised their hands. The tea was followed by a fashion and we all loved being treated like royalty for the day!

Submitted_by

charm@cftoday.org Palm Beach Gardens,FL

Theme_Title

Back to School!

Based_On

We are to be as children - ever learning

Description

We decorated using all school supplies. We had a "welcome back to school" banner as the ladies entered. Our luncheon was served in sack lunch bags. We encouraged the ladies to trade food amongst each other as an ice breaker. Our centerpiece was made in a child's lunchbox and had different school supplies as part of the arrangement. We put alphabet and number stickers all over the tablecloths. Our devotional was about the parable of the pencil. It talks about being useless unless held in SOMEONE'S hand. How it is what is on the inside that really matters. And several other extremely good points. At the end we gave each lady the parable on a postcard and a pencil to go with it.

Submitted_by

Julia Gurnee, byronjulie5@wuite224.net Conneaut, Ohio

Theme_Title

The Mother's Day County Fair

Based_On

Can't remember

Description

Fair Theme; Luncheon to celebrate Mother's Day. Favors were Prayer rocks with a note attached to remember to pray.. the rock goes on your pillow, bump your head on it, throw it in the floor and bump your toe, reminder to pray. Each rock was wrapped in fabric and tied with ribbon and attached note. Tables were 8 foot long with as many attached to each other to fill the room, in rows. Red checked table paper. Pop Corn in red check popcorn boxes with helium balloons coming out of them for the center pieces....(filled the room with color). Quilts hanging everywhere. Family pictures were taken from our platform that was designed by our maintenance staff. The set looked like the front porch of a country house, with a screen door in the center and windows on each side of the door, with curtains made from the table paper. Rockers were on the porch and a partial shingled roof to give the effect. Crafts show before hand and a petting zoo for small children. Family style meal, fried chicken, coleslaw, baked beans. This was served by the pastors and deacons. Desert was pie that had been entered in the pie baking contest. Ribbons given for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners. Our program consisted of a dog show, and you had to look like you dog to enter....example your dog is a Doberman and our lady wore a leather skirt, chained belt and a leather cap (like a biker)....another lady tried to enter this huge stuffed Dalmatian dog and was disqualified and thrown out of the competition...she argued all the way off, stating her dog was obedient by showing the audience how her dog would sit on command. The audience voted by the "clap-o-meter" for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places. We had BIG beautiful ribbons made from a trophy shop that had the date, the occasion, the church and the event put on the ribbons. We had a "Pig calling contest" and a "seed spitting (watermelon) contest". People from the audience took part in these 2 events and they too had ribbons awarded. WE had 8-12 year olds that were 2nd in the state come and clog for us.............they were awesome. Special music...we tried to involve all age groups in the event to participate. Six weeks before the event we took ballets from our ladies to vote for the "Fairest of the Fair". They submitted why they thought this lady was to be acknowledged as one of the most godly ladies in our church. She was revealed that night. Our Speaker spoke about "Enjoying being a Women of God" It was an awesome day. A fun day and a day that we made memories with our children and family. God is good.

Submitted_by

Humpkgma@bellsouth.net Hollywood, Fl

Theme_Title

Fill my cup Lord

Based_On

Description

Tables decorated with assorted coffee cups and tea cups of all size, shapes. Filled with tea bags, instant coffee, sugar baggies, nail files, nail polish, combs, mini brushes, mints, candies, anything and everything we could stuff into the coffee cups. Then we wrap them up with cellophane paper and tied with beautiful colorful ribbons. The ladies loved them and even traded them. The cups where all filled even past the rim. The lesson that day was "Fill my cup Lord" and the song too. All the ladies got to take home their filled cups and God's promises!!!!!!! Decorations throughout the place were other giant coffee cups that we also filled with items and plants, candies and were all given out as prizes. Lace decor, lots of flowers and planted we borrowed from our ladies to keep cost down. real feminine atmosphere!!!!! We plan this event for a year so we had a year to buy over 100 coffee cups on sale and collected and brought all the goodies to go inside them. We borrow many decors from our homes to help keep cost down.

Submitted_by

Everykneeshallbow@juno.com Lancaster, California

Theme_Title

"Remember this...."

Based_On

Isaiah 46:8,9 and Deut. 7:17-20

Description

Women's Retreat Session 1 - "Remember...what?" Remember WHAT the Lord your God has done for you in the past, what you have seen with your own eyes... (Deut.7:17-20) Session 2 - "Remember...Who?" Remember WHO God is and aspects of His character - there is no one like Him (Is. 46:8,9) Session 3 - "Remember this....now!" What is it God is asking me to remember about WHAT He has done and WHO He is so that I will trust and obey Him NOW? "Pillow talk" favor on women's pillows that night from Ps. 63:6-8 "On my bed I remember you...." with a chocolate hug and kiss.

Submitted_by

sirvin@harvestbiblechapel.org irvs-home@juno.com

Theme_Title

Spirit Filled Relationships

Based_On

Romans 5:5 & I John 4:7

Description

Retreat@ state park lodge (or anywhere) We used a dove as the loge and cloud paper purchased at Office Depo or Mardel's (stationary for computers) to make folders with all info and extra for notes. We had cloud posters with other verses about the Spirit around the hallways. Each room door had a folder (also found at office supply) decorated with the verse on the cloud paper, mounted on the outside of the door. MANY small sheets of paper were lying around the outer entrance areas to be used as encouragement cards. Women can write to one another just quick notes of encouragement ,thanks... You will need a team of women to be prepared to deliver them to the proper room folders. Have a list of names & room #s ready! Our speaker was from the local SCOPE Ministries a Christian counseling service here in OKC. Each town probably will have one of some sort. She spoke about our relationship with God and others..& how to improve them. We put "Dove-brand" chocolates on each pillow and used the same cloud paper--it is notebook size--took it to the printers and they cut it lengthwise and made long notepads with lines down them, like for grocery lists. Our dove logo and scripture verse at the top. We also attached blue ink pens with blue ribbons (hint: Walmart donated them!) Many notepads can be made pretty cheaply this way or cutting into 1/4 pages. We also had a spa night and surprised almost all the women except those involved! Mary Kay, Avon, Arbone....women at our church donated facials...(NO SALES) Also several women had those hot wax hand warmers, nail polish and foot massagers, and lots of warm and moist hand towels in crock pots, water with lemons and ice in pretty glass pitchers (for hydrating!)....keep it a secret and it is so much more fun. We all came in our p.j.s. We called it the Spirit Spa. BE SURE TO TAKE PICTURES OF WOMEN IN FACIALS! This was an extremely popular event.

Submitted_by

www.newchurchokc.org

Theme_Title

"Spa-Tea-Da"

Based_On

relaxation/rejuvenation "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

Description

a one-day evangelistic event where ladies are pampered with manicures, pedicures, facials, etc...will sip on tea as they are relaxing and then will enjoy a "girly" lunch while our speaker talks about finding true rest and relaxation in the busyness of life...meeting the felt need of time away while meeting the real need of finding rest in Jesus Christ

Submitted_by

stephinpoland@hotmail.com, albany, georgia

Theme_Title

Ladies Day Spa

Based_On

I Peter, Adorning ourselves for Service

Description

SPA SPA SPA. decorated all purple and cream, spa like surroundings. This was a special day for the Ladies of our church. It was based kind of like a ministry fair. Each of our ministries that fall under our Ladies Ministry umbrella had a station set up. Women went around and visited each station to get the pampering that was offered there, but the catch was, while they were being pampered they were learning all about that ministry and how they could get involved as a place of service. Examples: Bible Study, was doing Satin Hands process by Mary Kay and each step had a scripture verse. Sign ups were available for our Fall studies and books were sold. Mentoring: We had several women who loaned up their paraffin wax tubs, while women soaked their hands or elbows they were talked to by those who were in mentoring relationships, told of upcoming coffees and places of service. Special Events/Retreat Committee: also loaned by several women we had foot bath spas, as they women soaked their feet, others told them about upcoming events and if they wanted to serve and also took surveys on where and when for retreats, etc. Pregnancy Crisis Center: Women relaxed with all sorts of loaned massaging equipment, (back, foot, electric, etc). Volunteers from our church would tell them how they could volunteer or donate items that are greatly appreciated. We also had a lovely food table with "Baptist Champagne" (White Grape Juice with Ginger Ale), fruits, chocolates, cheese and crackers. Mom's Support Group: Made your own bath salts, scented, while hearing of times and nature of meetings. Hospitality: Gave herbal facials, while telling how we welcome new lady members into our church, how they can help. Overall, it was huge success and no one wanted to leave. We did it on a Saturday afternoon from 1-4, we average 350 in church on Sundays and so if your church is larger, you might need more time to accommodate. Everyone who attended said it was a wonderful relaxing time, but also way more informative about ladies ministries than they had ever known.

Submitted_by

jkcwhiteley@juno.com San Antonio, TX

Theme_Title

Engagement Tea

Based_On

We are announcing to the world that we are the bride of Christ

Description

The whole thing was very elegant. Tea cups and saucers, and little sandwiches and treats. With soft music and just a lot of lady chat. Afterward everyone took their tea set home with them so that they could remember to treat themselves to a little elegance and femininity.

Submitted_by

Terri Dearman, Bartlesville OK ltdearman@yahoo.com

Theme_Title

Luau with the Lord Retreat

Based_On

Acts 3:19-20 Festival with the Lord

Description

Luau Party Theme with Jesus as the guest of honor...palm trees, surf boards, tiki huts, hula skirts, Hawaiian music, all sorts of luau favors. Check up on our relationship with our Lord. Cabin/Hut decorating contest. A follow up mini retreat entitled: "Catch the Wave...of revival"...due to the revival that occurred at this retreat.

Submitted_by

azdebree@msn.com Gilbert, AZ

Theme_Title

Tea's the Season

Based_On

"My Cup Runneth Over" + Blessings at Christmas

Description

A Victorian Christmas Ladies' Tea. We had teen girls dressed in period costumes serve the tea. Each lady received a tea cup as a "take home" gift. A variety of teas and spiced cider was served along with special cookies and nibbles. Trivia about teas and tea drinking customs was shared. The decorations included oil lamps, ruffled chintz tablecloths on round tables, lace doilies along with holiday greenery.

Submitted_by

nygrits@lwol.com Newark, NY

Theme_Title

"Under One Roof"

Based_On

Deuteronomy 6:4-9

Description

We had a ladies night out with mini workshops based on a different room in your home. We used the kitchen, dining room, bedroom and family room. The kitchen was a "room for cooking" and one of the ladies from our church presented simple recipes and cooking tips. The dining room was a "room for creativity" and was focused on different ways to use what you have to make your table beautiful and decorative at mealtime. The bedroom was a "room for comfort" and two of our church ladies shared thoughts on how to comfort and encourage others trough the trials of life (cancer and loss of a spouse) We ended up in the family room (A room for Companionship) where someone shared lots of great party ideas and simple inexpensive gift ideas for the upcoming holidays. A short devotion based on the Deut. passage was shared and refreshments were served. The ladies enjoyed the evening and learned lots of new ideas for making Christ the center of our homes.

Submitted_by

teresalockwood@hotmail.com Pana Illinois

Theme_Title

We can do it Lord by Your grace

Based_On

Philippians 4:13

Description

Encourage each woman she can do anything by God's grace even if it seems impossible, so long as she puts her trust and confidence in Jesus.

Submitted_by

Theme_Title

Use Me Lord

Based_On

Topic used at women's ministries retreat

Description

women can be used by God once they submit themselves under His control

Submitted_by

mauds20@hotmail.com

Theme_Title

Seasons of Faith

Based_On

Faith

Description

This event was a dessert fellowship time for our women's ministry group. Ahead of time we had selected people to decorate sets of tables according to the four seasons. When the ladies arrived, they sat at the table that represented their birth month. For our program, we had several of the ladies in our group share a song, a skit or their testimony. In keeping with the theme we had asked three ladies in different "seasons" of their walk with God to share their testimony with the group. For dessert, each table got their own birthday cake decorated according to their season. For promotion we had bought blank bookmarks and decorated them with seasonal stickers and included the name and date of the event. These were handed out the Sunday before.

Submitted_by

amyndenton@hotmail.com, Alice, TX

Theme_Title

I.O.U. Dinner

Based_On

Saying "Thank You" to someone who has made a difference in your life

Description

The Ladies Ministry at Loveland Church of Christ, Loveland, Ohio decided to have a dinner that honored people who have made a difference in their lives. We decided that this was so important, that we also opened it to our whole church. The premise is anyone can think of one person who has changed their life in a positive way. To many of us this was a Sunday School teacher, a minister or an adult we grew up with at church who paid special attention to us and made us believe in ourselves. But some people picked teachers from school, or friends growing up who were their for them during hard times. Some of these people were not Christians. We took this as a great opportunity for witnessing about the family of God and how we are there for those who need us in times of trouble. It was a great witness to those who didn't belong to a church to see so many people talk about their Sunday school teachers or youth ministers. We had an Italian Dinner and used the Italian flag colors a scheme. The table clothes were green red and white. We had bread sticks, bread and olive oil to dunk in on each table. We had salad, Minestrone soup, Garlic bread and Spaghetti. The food tables had a colander filled with greenery, red roses and toward the bottom where the holes were, some uncooked spaghetti were placed. A few weeks before the dinner, we had forms available for people to fill out about why this person was special to them. We also printed out invitations that they could send to their guests. At the dinner, we made a "Wall of fame" and strung wire across one wall and hung everyone's forms on it. To get to the wall you passed through a flower laden arch. This way everyone could read about each others special person. We did this because we knew not everyone would necessarily want to get up in front of a large crowd to speak. After dinner, each one of us that wanted to, told about the person we wanted to honor and introduced them to the crowd. It was such a memorable event. We had around 65-70 people. The stories people told were so heart warming and inspirational. It gave many of us a great chance to say "thank you" and IOU for your generosity and love and for God putting them in our lives.

Submitted_by

therickro@aol.com , Loveland, Ohio

Theme_Title

Puzzles Pieces; Where do you fit?

Based_On

I Corinthians 12:12-22

Description

Puzzles(50 to 75 pieces maximum) are the centerpieces on the tables; Larges puzzle shapes on walls; food is geometrical, triangular sandwiches, cookies in interesting shapes, star fruit, kiwi other fruits and veggies cut in odd shapes, beverages in cups with abstract designs do the same for plates and napkins; for the ice breaker cut hearts in in half with different designs and have each person find the person with the other half of their heart. To win the activity, you must find the other half of your heart and be able to tell three wonderful things about that person. The activity leading into the sermonette is the puzzle centerpieces. Each table must complete their puzzles as a team (You will remove one piece of each puzzle before the ladies arrive; Remember to number each piece you remove to be replaced in each puzzle later. You can pass the complete puzzles on to the youth ministry in your church for play or for a similar activity). This will lead into the sermonette on the importance of the body as a whole, each member being important. To end the day Take one puzzle and give each person a piece and have them write the theme and date on the back as well as the scripture reference. This is to be kept in their wallet or their bible to remind them they are important in the kingdom of God. As a parting scripture, remind them of Deuteronomy 7:6...We are God's treasures.

Submitted_by

deacdoc@earthlink.net I live in Goldsboro, NC

Theme_Title

Happy Birthday Jesus

Based_On

Luke "Birth of Jesus"

Description

Standard Birthday Party decor with some Christmas color and decor intermingled. We do this as a party for the kids of the church and the neighborhood kids as an outreach on a Saturday afternoon.

Submitted_by

ritacal@msn.com Glen Burnie, Maryland

Theme_Title

advent family devotions advent family devotions

Based_On

Description

Christmas brunch at church. Our guest speaker, Marilyn Williams, spoke on using advent to teach your family the true meaning of Christmas and Christ's next coming. She did a wonderful job of giving us very practical ideas for doing brief Christmas devotions. Each woman made an advent wreath to take home with her.

Submitted_by

cheryl@northsidechurch.com Clovis, CA

Theme_Title

Making Your Presence Known Without Saying a Word

Based_On

The woman with the Alabaster Box

Description

We used this on a retreat. We encouraged the women to only speak when they absolutely had to. We asked them to concentrate on worship - however they defined it. How could they make their presence known without ever speaking. We wanted them to have some quiet time during this retreat - not all activity. Our women gathered the first evening for a very informal time of worship. The next morning following breakfast, they were given "sealed orders". This was an envelope with a devotional in it. They were asked to do the devotional and have prayer - never speaking to anyone during that time. They were then brought back together in small groups to discuss their devotions. Following a morning service and lunch, we spent our time worshipping and then used Liz Curtis Higgs book, Bad Girls of the Bible, to minister the story of the woman with the alabaster box. We then had communion and an outside foot washing service. We used a children's pool and filled it with perfumes and oils and water - prior to the service. Each of the women walked through the pool while the ministry team washed their feet and prayed for them. It was the most incredible time of prayer and healing and encouragement we had ever experienced. We held this retreat six years ago and women are still talking about what God did for them during that time. They were each given a small box with perfume inside of it for their gift.

Submitted_by

bsrlawson@yahoo.com Louisville, KY

Theme_Title

The plight of the scarlet house wife

Based_On

The book of Hosea

Description

An illustration of Hosea attempts the transformation from harlot to housewife. You witness her stumble, fall and turn back to her past. You will see God's relentless love in action as Hosea forgives and restores his wife, ultimately buying her back from slavery. Then rejoice over the chains of Gomer's past are finally shattered once and for all.

Submitted_by

mechelles@junct.com

Theme_Title

Come and Dine

Based_On

Ecclesiastes 3:25

for without him, who can eat or find enjoyment?

Description

We meet at different restaurants every 3 months and just fellowship and focus on the Lord.

Submitted_by

everykneeshallbow@juno.com Lancaster, Ca

Theme_Title

Discovering God at the Well

Based_On

Woman at the well in John's Gospel

Description

Used jars on the program and as placemats. We had a well built from Styrofoam and during the retreat each woman wrote on the back of the jar how she was going to walk differently after her well experience. Then ceremoniously she dropped her own jar at the well to live free.

Submitted_by

Gloria_Henderson@acco.com

Theme_Title

Attributes of GOD

Based_On

Several scriptures

Description

We used everyday items i.e, glue sticks, paper weights, mirror, etc. and spoke on how each item represented an attribute of GOD in our lives. Example: glue sticks represents Jesus holding us together when we're torn or broken.

Submitted_by

Harris_Adrienne@bls.gov Baltimore, Maryland

Theme_Title

Bride of Christ

Based_On

Description

We decorated the Family Life Center of our Church in a Wedding Reception theme for our Spring Ladies Brunch. Complete with male escorts to take the ladies to tables which were laden with floral topiaries done in different bridal flowers and floral plates and napkins. Each lady was escorted through an arch draped in tulle. Prior to the speaker, who spoke on the theme, there was a fashion show which included some very old bridal gowns donated by church members, the oldest gown was 42 years old and was being modeled by the youngest daughter of the original bride. We provided cameras on each table for the ladies to take pictures. We also had some very lovely junior bridesmaids and flower girls. Wedding cake and punch was served for dessert following a buffet of salads presented on a table utilizing the church's unity candle holders. The stage was set with large altar arrangements and the brass candelabra complete with bows.

Submitted_by

Dianna Patchett dpatchett@prcconline.com Indianapolis, IN

Theme_Title

Mystery International Christmas Dinner Gala

Based_On

Fundraiser and bringing people together who don't normally socialize

Description

Dinner/Dessert Fundraiser. We chose 6 homes (church of 200 plus) to secretly hostess an international dinner. I was the only one to know who did what. The other hostesses didn't know who the others were either. They designed a menu and we hung it up and let people choose the cuisine they preferred based on first, second and third choices. Tickets were $10 each and cuisine was first come first bought. The night of party guests arrived at church at 5:30 for h'orderves and had a singer singing songs in the background. Since this was a Christmas we used Christmas songs spiritual and non spiritual. At 6:00 we revealed the hostess homes and who was going where, supplying them all with a map. 6:30 dinner began and ended at 7:30. Everyone met back at the church for a dessert auction and a few icebreaker type games. We raised $838. One dessert sold for over $100. It was a lot of fun and people got to fellowship with those they don't on a regular basis. The youth supplied the childcare...supplying different stations to work in and the children joined us for cake when auction was over. WE split the funds raised with the youth. Decorations were all Christmas and the room we used was decorated to the hilt and the room was later used for other groups having dinners or luncheons. All in all this met the needs of everyone!!! Desserts and appetizers donated by people who volunteered. And one of our ladies went to various places in towns and got donations for door prizes: highest bidder, lowest bidder, etc

Submitted_by

singn4ever@aol.com Tracy, Calif

Theme_Title

Ladies Tea Party for Mothers Day

Based_On

Titus 2 Woman-the older women train the younger women how to be Godly women and our mission statement Ephesians 4: 4-9 Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their labor, for if they fall, the other will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone for he hath not another to lift him up.

Description

We used this idea for Mothers Day last year. We called it a "Ladies Tea Party" so that all ladies of the church would come even if they didn't have a mother her to invite. We decorated the fellowship hall in lace, dolls, tea sets and twinkling lights. We also used a backdrop with pink lace, lights, dolls and tea sets to use for picture taking. We had the event catered, had a mother-daughter team sing, and had a mother-daughter team as guest speakers. All the ladies were from our church because we wanted to emphasize our missions statement of the Titus 2 woman.

Submitted_by

Tina Gregory, 8 aberdeen Way, Elgin, SC 29045 Lugoff Friendship Baptist Church, Lugoff SC

Theme_Title

SWEETS FOR THE SWEET! (Mother-Daughter Luncheon)

Based_On

"For we are unto God a sweet savor of Christ"IICor.2:15a

Description

Decorations: a "gingerbread house" made out of cardboard, life-size lollipops lined the aisle...table decorations were made out of candy bars...I read a "candy gram" that was a greeting using names of candy bars (eg. "Hello to all you "sweet tarts" and "chicklets"....hope you'll have a lot of "snickers"...."mounds" of fun) challenged the mothers/daughters to be "sweet" example of Christ ...did a skit with women dressed up like candy to a song called "Chocolate Fever"....

Submitted_by

Timzladee@carolina.rr.com Gastonia, NC

Theme_Title

Espresso for your Spirit

Based_On

"My cup overflows... Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life..." Psalm 23:5b-6

Description

Large coffee mugs, tables decorated with home made candles made of cinnamon rolls, flowers, coffee jars. Sold at end and money donated to women's shelter in our city. Anything to do with coffee. Board that looks like an espresso order board but letting the ladies know what events were scheduled.

Submitted_by

Spokane, Washington

Theme_Title

Taters Are Coming

Based_On

Description

Two members of our WEM Team dressed as "taters". We used brown craft paper to make our bodies, wore brown tights, sweaters and shoes. As our narrator read about the different types of "taters", the model came out carrying props to go with each kind of "tater". We used Agitator, Commentator, Spectator, Sweet Tater, Hesitator as types of Christians. The narrator made some comments about the different types and read appropriate Scripture. Our tables were decorated with potatoes. Our craft for the meeting was to make Potato Magnets from old hosiery, cotton batting and magnets. We served baked potatoes with assorted toppings.

Submitted_by

mrsbarker@adelphia.net Marion, Va

Theme_Title

"Becoming New, Becoming Strong"

Based_On

Inspired by a devotion in the book "15 Minutes Alone With God"; II Cor. 5:17 'If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away, behold, all things are become new."

Description

We used this as our new year theme for January's women's meeting in the home of one of our ladies. In speaking about making changes, doing things differently in the new year, I mentioned that our devotional life is an area where we could grow stronger in. The hostess had made a sample prayer basket ahead of time for our discussion. The prayer basket held the following items, which I elaborated on, one at a time, as I pulled it out of the basket:

Bible - Our means of communication from God; He is not a silent partner in our covenant/relationship with Him. We can't just talk to Him through prayer, telling Him our wants/needs; we also need to hear from Him - and that's through His Word.

Devotional/inspirational book - For days when we have a little more time to do some extra reading

Prayer Journal - To keep track of prayer requests and answered prayers; we also have a specific list for our women's group called "P.U.S.H." - Pray Until Something Happens, which we update monthly at our meetings.

Note cards - For times when God impresses upon us that certain someone we're praying for, to send him/her a note of encouragement

Address book - To keep handy for those note cards so that we can take of it right then and there

Pen - To use for our prayer journal and note cards

Small pack of tissues - For those moments when we have tears of joy or sorrow

Silk flowers - To remind us of the beauty of the Lord, and to add a bit of attractiveness to the basket

The prayer basket should have a handle on it, making it portable and convenient to pick up and carry to our prayer closets - the location of which can be different each day: our kitchen table, a desk, outside under a tree or on the porch, the bathtub, etc.

The prayer basket will be an invitation to us to spend time with the Lord (and a reminder to us on those busy days when we haven't done that yet).

Ahead of time, we had a lady who owns a Christian book store to set up a display of various note cards, journals, and inspirational books in the dining room. After refreshments, the ladies were free to browse and see if there were any items that struck their fancy to purchase for their devotional time and/or prayer baskets. Also, as the ladies left, they received a goody bag containing a kind of 'starter kit' for making up their own basket at home. The goody bag contained our P.U.S.H. list, an address book, a scriptural note card & envelope, and a small pack of tissues.

Submitted_by

Marsha Gabbard - Mason, Ohio mgabbard@juno.com

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