Church of God Big Sandy sponsors
'To God Be the Glory' conference


By Jeri Holcomb

BIG SANDY, Texas--Sunshine, blue skies and blooming daffodils, combined with warm hearts and many serving hands, helped to welcome about 130 women who attended the fourth annual Christian Women's Conference March 11-13.

The theme this year was "To God Be the Glory," based on 1 Peter 4:10-11. The theme was reflected in every part of the conference as presentation topics and roundtable discussions centered on the many ways we can glorify and serve our loving Creator.

The opening session on Friday evening included a panel and small-group discussion called "Finding Your Spiritual Gifts."

The Sabbath offered music, a delicious brunch and a morning speaker. In the afternoon many participants traveled to nearby homes for small-group Bible-study and fellowship sessions, while some chose to attend Sabbath services in the Church of God Big Sandy's building, where we held the conference.

Instant massages

The evening finale included a gourmet meal served by the men of the Big Sandy congregation (along with a few additional helpers), more music, more roundtable discussions, more fellowship and even massages!

Sunday morning offered a bountiful breakfast, music and presentations by five inspiring speakers. The conference concluded with prayer groups and a light lunch.

Speakers came from several states (all cities mentioned are in Texas unless otherwise noted) and included Sondra Beam, Fulton, Miss.; Jeanine Case, Big Sandy; Brandi Cartwright, Nacogdoches; Pam Dewey, Allegan, Mich.; Cathy Elliot, Longview; Kristen Girouard, Cedar Park; Elaine Holloway, Gladewater; Thalia Hufton, Hawkins; Angie Kelley, Hawkins; Kathy McCommon, Longview; Kit Mohr, Frisco; Melodee Overton, Hawkins; Linda Roth, Homer, Alaska; Kim Skelton, White Oak; Renee Steel, Bixby, Okla.; Tat Tomes, Big Sandy; and Renetta Wilson, Celina.

Lyna Jane Bryant, Sulphur Springs, Texas, prepared the music. The delicious meals were planned and prepared by local residents Julie Wilkins, Tony Contos, Michele Mischnick, Melodee Overton and Tat Tomes.

Darcy Stahl graciously served as chairman this year, and Kim Skelton served as emcee.

Mrs. Stahl emphasized "how much of a team effort is involved in putting this conference together. It wouldn't materialize if it weren't for the input, support, dedication and generosity of about 10 women--and their husbands and families, of course. A great big thanks to all who were involved."

Realize the ways

Without God's many blessings and inspiration, such a conference could never have taken place. All who attended would agree that, regardless of who does the work, to God be the glory. During this conference we saw just some of the many ways we can glorify God in our lives.

This was the fourth such conference in Big Sandy and the largest so far. For many of the women this was their first time to attend, and such was the case for this writer.

But, like many others, she already looks forward to next year. Plans are already underway for the 2006 meetings, scheduled for March 10-12. We hope you will make plans to bring a friend and attend with us next year.