Tina Teng-Henson

I remember going to NEWIM retreats down at Three Rivers over the course of several years of ministry that were quite difficult. Sometimes I would bring a friend with me who was going through some very painful dynamics in her own life. She would pour out her heart on our long drive, and as we drove, I could tell just how much we both needed genuine soul-refreshment. When we would arrive at the retreats, we would be guaranteed individual alone-time with the Lord. For me, that was so critically important -- solitude and silence, stillness and quiet. But I also valued the small group questions we'd discuss over mealtimes and the corporate times of communal worship and prayer. Each time, God would meet me in some very particular way. Sometimes it would be through extended time in the chapel, gazing up at Jesus's body on the cross as I prepared a sermon. Other times, it would be through interacting with Father John (now retired), and treasuring how Jesus would speak to me through his life and powerful example. The art room would often be a place for encounter, as I would collage or draw/color. God would show me something about myself in that time. During seasons where I was pastoring in very difficult situations, NEWIM retreats provided space to be alone and process, to receive prayer, to simply be led by others in worship. After stepping down from those situations, NEWIM would be a place where I could go be with other women in ministry and realize how I was doing, how angry I was, how much residual I was carrying. The other women's honest responses, their reactions to my stories, their willingness to pray with me and for me -- to speak into my life -- would all help.

Being with other women writers, pastors, ministers -- being around their creativity, their gentleness, their motherhood and grandmotherhood -- has been a gift. I'm very grateful to Luann and the teams God's formed around her for their shared and beautiful work. Their work is offered up in authenticity. Their service in setting the table allows others to come and receive. Praise Be to God.