The theme "Straighten Your Crown, Girl" came after a conversation I was having with my daughter. I was telling her that I just did not have an idea for the retreat this year. I had been reading, looking through devotional books, praying, talking with friends, but nothing was coming. My brain was totally blank!

My daughter said, “Let me send you something. It might help how you feel.” She sent the picture to me that is on the flyer (below). And it hit me… That’s it! We as women need to be reminded that no matter how we feel, we still belong to Him!

Our guest speaker for SGR is a phenomenal lady. If you have been to Camp Cowen recently, there is a good chance that you have met her. Jill Narraway, Director of Camping & Youth. She is also a graduate student in the Palmer Theological Seminary Master of Divinity program, has delivered God’s Word on many occasions, and is working diligently preparing her message for SGR! I'm excited to hear her speak and am confident we will all be amazed and blessed.

Finally, there is a little secret that my husband and I have planned just for you. We are going to construct a giant crown to hang from the ceiling in Hill Hall. It’s going to be a bigger-than-life illustration of the theme. If our full plan works out, you will be inspired and will remember your time at this year’s Spiritual Growth Retreat. All I can say is that you will just need to join us in September at Parchment Valley and get ready to straighten your crown, girl!!