Hispanic Women’s Retreat Brings Hope and Healing
By Verónica Méndez
More than 300 women gathered on the weekend of April 4-6 for the Hispanic Women’s Retreat. This event commemorated in celebration 35 years of ministry with messages of healing, faith, and community for Hispanic women within Southeastern California Conference. Centered on the theme “From Despair to Faith,” the weekend offered a powerful space for reflection, spiritual renewal, and connection. The retreat’s theme verse, Psalm 94:19 — “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought joy to my soul”— served as a timely reminder of God’s enduring presence and comfort.
At the heart of the retreat was Mabel Duncan, pastor, whose deeply personal testimony left a lasting impression. Her openness in recounting her journey from despair to steadfast faith served as a framework for the weekend’s message, inviting attendees into a shared space of vulnerability, strength, and hope.
The retreat also featured testimonies from several other women, whose stories of resilience and faith in the face of adversity fostered a sense of deep spiritual connection. Times of dedicated prayer and heartfelt fellowship further nurtured this growing sense of sisterhood and encouragement among the women.
Sabbath programming offered rich spiritual and historical insight. The morning session explored the lives of courageous women in the Bible, highlighting their unwavering devotion amid profound trials. One attendee shared, “We learned invaluable lessons from their steadfast devotion and remarkable resilience—lessons we can apply to our own lives and journeys of faith.”
In the evening, the spotlight turned to influential women from secular history. Through biographical presentations and detailed historical costuming, attendees were transported through time to celebrate the legacy of women whose strength and courage have left lasting marks on the world. The segment emphasized the value of learning and honoring the contributions of women throughout the ages.
Throughout the weekend, expressions of gratitude from attendees were abundant, underscoring the retreat’s profound impact. It was a weekend marked not just by teaching and testimony, but by spiritual growth and shared strength.
The Hispanic women’s ministries of the Southeastern California Conference remains deeply committed to fostering events that uplift, inspire, and unify. This retreat stood as a vivid testament to that mission. Organizers extended heartfelt thanks to the Hispanic women’s ministry committee, whose dedication made the event possible.