A total of 91 enthusiastic ladies from California and Arizona enjoyed the 11th annual Women’s Enrichment Weekend. The weekend was hosted by the Garden Grove congregation on Feb. 10-12 at the beautiful Embassy Suites in Santa Ana, California, with the theme “Instruments of Peace.”

The main portion of our women’s weekend began with morning Sabbath services. The sermon by the Garden Grove pastor Mario Seiglie, “Sowing Peace to Reap Peace,” set the theme-related tone. The sermon was preceded by exceptional special music selections with three duets and an ensemble of women from various areas.

The theme was expanded in two Sabbath-afternoon sessions. Deborah Barr in an overview explained the depth and various aspects and dimensions of peace. Carol Wallauch expanded on those concepts, illustrating practical ways to diffuse conflict with others. Anna Moore added concepts of peace through communication and organization and by sharing examples of two special ladies. A delicious banquet meal together capped off the day.

On Sunday morning, six ladies shared parts of their lives with lessons learned. Laura Peabody gave examples of people as “instruments of peace” in her life. Gloria Taylor explained what it was like landing on one’s feet after difficult times and trials. Vikkie Garnant shared about coming to know God and the excitement of knowing God’s way works. Madeleine Fiske told about her calling and coming to Ambassador College. Carolina Clark explained her realization that sometimes we have to “fight” to stand up for our convictions to have peace. And Ingrid Helge shared how a simple thing as a cheesecake helped reconcile with her father.

After lunch together on Sunday afternoon, Pam Hunt helped us learn how to better support one another in trials and Jean Updegraff shared inspiring examples of people who had a deep inner peace even in times of war. Sylvia Kennedy wove the presentations together as our enthusiastic moderator.

A wonderful spirit, energy and vibrancy permeated the weekend as the ladies appreciated learning how to apply the fruit of peace in their lives, fellowshipping and bonding with other ladies throughout this special weekend.