Women's Spirituality Conference

Along with periodic gatherings that highlight dynamic speakers, an annual conference is held. Such authors as Elaine St. James, Sue Bender, Lauren Artress have led the intergenerational conferences that encourage unity, sharing, exploration and growth. In 2004, the eight annual event, Sisters in Faith, featured Dottie Lamm, Jane Vennard and Rita Berglund. Topics have included sisterhood empowerment, labyrinth, living simply, healing power of humor, healing through brokenness.

Calvary Circles for Women
If you need balance in your life, consider a Calvary circle.

Is it time to shift gears and do something different? Once a month you're invited to break out of your usual routine and look at life from another perspective. In a small group you'll find:

• a caring connection
• opportunities for personal and spiritual growth
• ways to reach out into the community and beyond
• meet others and get involved at your own comfort level

Calvary's circles come in various sizes, meet at different times and offer diverse activities. Whether 12 or 20 are present, you'll soon become partners in building relationships, continuing to grow, and assisting with service projects. Did you know that when you share elbow fellowship with other women, you reach a new level of understanding of yourself and others?

There are daytime and evening groups—some with a wide variety of ages—that meet both at church and in homes. Programs include:

• book reviews
• discussions on relevant themes
• speakers on timely issues
• socializing and snacking
• hands-on activities that expand one's awareness of others

A recent helping project was filling bags with necessities for migrant workers in the Alamosa area.

Each circle also supports its own missionary. This support can take the form of birthday gifts sent overseas for their children, financial assistance, regular correspondence and prayerful encouragement. In turn, circle members discover a different country or culture, along with the challenges faced by those living out their faith in mission.

Calvary's circles flow into the American Baptist Women's organization, a regional and national network that coordinates activities of special interest. Inspirational events are held at a nearby retreat center, and joint meetings are planned with other American Baptist Women in the Denver area—a wonderful way to become part of the family.

The first step is yours. Once you take it, you'll find yourself accepted and involved. A circle will quickly become a sphere of new friends and fresh perspectives.