At the end of June, the Trinity Network pastors’ wives spent an enriching few days away together. This yearly tradition started in 1994 – 30 years ago! At that stage, it was six of us heading off in my kombi to a friend’s holiday house. It was a time for brainstorming and input on how to be faithful and fruitful and for enjoying fellowship, Bible study, prayer and refreshment. The purpose of the time away hasn’t changed, but, in God’s kindness, we now have 31 pastors’ wives, so the logistics look a little different.
This year, we hired seven cabins at the Hahndorf Caravan Park. The goal was to create an event that fits somewhere between a conference and a retreat with a combination of fun bonding activities, serious input and relaxation. The afternoons were free time with some women going on hikes, others having a cuppa or praying in smaller groups, or even just catching up on much-valued sleep.
We are very grateful for the Trustee’s financial support and for the support of the Trinity family, which included one person leading a very enjoyable art class to kick off our time together, and another couple providing a meeting area for us to use for our evening sessions and dinners.
The training mornings were put together by two members of our group and included panel discussions. Our focus on Friday was the role trauma can play in a child’s development, risk and protective factors for children and families, and how a well-functioning church can be a significant protective factor. Even with this fairly heavy topic we came away encouraged by God’s love for all people and the transforming hope there is in the gospel.
On Saturday morning, we explored relationships and friendships in ministry, and how the primary Biblical language for church relationships is family (sisters, brothers, mothers and fathers), but that there are also other concepts like co-workers and friends. We discussed the freedom we have with different personal and cultural styles, what healthy relationships involve, including true affection in Christ, and how friendships can change over time and circumstance.
One highlight was interviewing Brett Cowell, chair of Trustees and the Trinity Network Board, about his conversion and walk with God, the Trinity leadership structure, and his hopes under God for the future of the Network. We also had our traditional ‘hot topics’ discussion, where we brainstormed answers and insights about a range of issues participants raised.
As well as these days away, the Trinity pastors’ wives have other times during the year to either pray in area groups or to have a whole group supper, speaker and an end-of-year high tea. There is vast expertise and wisdom amongst the group. While each wife’s circumstances, experience, gifts and stage of life are different, there are some universal issues, and it is so helpful to learn from and support each other as we have the privilege of being part of the Trinity community.
On a personal note, I am enormously thankful to God that He has blessed us all with these gospel-hearted women who are keen to grow in Godliness and service of both their earthly and eternal families.