Women's Retreat: Once Upon His Time...

The women of Emmanuel went on retreat, right here at ERC, on April 8th & 9th. This Friday night and Saturday were dedicated to helping us recognize that we each have a unique story, to celebrating God’s story in our lives, to exploring how He may be calling us to share that story to bless and encourage others and to challenging us with our “next step.”

Pat VanDyke, a gifted speaker, presented 3 sessions:
• “Let Your Test Become Your Testimony”
• “Let Your Mess Become Your Message”
• “Let Your Attitude Be One of Gratitude”

Pat VanDyke, pastor’s wife and Christian middle school principal, brings a message of hope and faith to everyone each time she is given the opportunity to share her testimony.

Pat has dealt with the challenges and joys of being a pastor’s wife. She shares her experiences with humor and sincerity. As a mother, Pat has experienced infertility, the struggles of adoption, the death of a child, and the birth and rearing of a severely handicapped child. As a grandmother, Pat has experienced the tragic death of a granddaughter and the challenges of being a grandparent raising a grandson with special emotional needs. Through her experiences, you will laugh, cry, and be blessed.

As an educator of 30 years, Pat deals daily with struggling students and has been able to transform many to confident, successful young people through positive interaction and a caring atmosphere.

We also heard stories of God’s grace and love from some of our own women. What a blessing!!