On April 27-28, at the Summers Mill Retreat Center in Belton, TX, over 200 singles gathered for the Texas/Oklahoma Singles Spring Retreat.
The theme was “After Earth: Living for Eternity,” with a scripture foundation from Ecclesiastes 3:11.
Newly-appointed evangelist, Nate Bigbee, from San Antonio delivered the keynote message of “Living for Eternity.” It was a message that stirred the audience to not be content with complacency.
Additional practical lessons were (for men):
- Building Relationships
- Helping our Sisters get to Heaven
- Living Like the Father
Lessons for the women were:
- Finding your Worth in God
- Contemplative Prayer
- Being a Great Sister to the Brothers
Participants in the weekend were treated to southern-style meals catered by the Summers Mill Retreat staff, along with several homes on the property with hotel-quality rooms.
The retreat grounds included miles of scenic trails, several exotic animals (including an
ostrich and Longhorn cow). The scenery aided in several team-building activities that included football, volleyball, basketball, hiking, and horse-shoe throwing.
Saturday evening also brought a high-energy 80’s-themed dance in which a few brave participants walked away with gift cards for best-dressed costume.
Sunday morning brought a closing devotional message from 2 men from the Houston church, Ward Herbert and Archie Martinez. Their message, “Open Hearts, Open Arms, Open Mouths” touched on using compassion to connect with people.
The singles retreat coincided with a joint service for all of the Texas/Oklahoma churches. After the conference officially ended, those in attendance drove a few miles south to join a lively, encouraging church service with hundreds of others.
The retreat may have been short, but the teaching moments & friendships built will have a lasting impact.
