FAITH
PERSEVERING TOGETHER
CAP WOMEN’S RETREAT OFFERS SPIRITUAL RENEWAL
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By Rayann White
ppalachian women have lived through hard hands-on work and isolation, raising both children and food. They’ve lived through being crowded together in coal camps, fought hard battles physically and mentally, and nursed babies and broken hearts. Appalachian women bore the iniquities of a whole people on their backs - whether the burdens they bore were any fault of their own or not. They live by stern principles. They live by know-how and have strength many wouldn’t even pretend to know. It’s a strength that is bigger than they are, because their faith does not stand in self or circumstances. It is a faith with a foundation that truth is truth, and anything else will eventually pass away and can be endured. The Christian Appalachian Project’s (CAP) Family Advocacy program recently held its 10th Annual Women’s Retreat May 14-16. The Advocacy program is a core part of CAP’s mission and provides short-term emergency assistance to people needing food, utilities, shelter, medical supplies, household goods, or clothing. It works closely with community-based organizations (including 12 other CAP programs) to address the family’s long-term growth and goals, while focusing on preserving their dignity and encouraging self-help. The retreat was held at CAP’s Camp Andrew Jackson, nestled in the mountains of the Daniel Boone National Forest in McKee, Kentucky. There were fifty-two women from McCreary, Owsley, Jackson, and Rockcastle Counties, who gathered for a time of spiritual refreshment, renewal, relaxation, and activities. The theme, “Running with Perseverance,” was based on Hebrews 12. The ladies who attended were encouraged to set goals and pursue their dreams and to never give up,
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THE MOUNTAIN SPIRIT | FALL 2013
despite any difficulties and oppositions that might come against them. Robyn Renner, Family Advocacy Manager, always prepares for the retreat with much enthusiasm. “I love the ladies who attend our retreat and look forward to seeing them return year after year. After all the planning, it is very rewarding to see the relationships built during these three days,” Renner said. “I have been inspired by the ladies’ faith and strength to battle through whatever trials come their way; many of these ladies have a variety of needs. I see the struggles they go through, and I feel their hurt and their pain.” During the Women’s Retreat, the camaraderie between the ladies was obvious. Age was definitely just a number for the women, who ranged from 20 to 89 years, as they reached out to pray and encourage one another, forming what one could truly call “sisterhood.” Program Coordinator Jenny King stated that, “The retreat is our staff’s favorite program of the year. It provides us with a chance to get to know and relate to our participants on an emotional and spiritual level. It’s a blessing to be a part of something so special.” The retreat was clearly designed as just that: a true retreat
