VALLEY FORGE, PA (ABNS 12/12/16)—American Baptist Women’s Ministries and American Baptist Women in Ministry are planning in partnership a second cruise event to the Bahamas, September 15-18, 2017. The cruise is open to all American Baptist women and their friends and loved ones. Departing from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, on the Royal Caribbean “Majesty of the Seas,” the cruise will stop at Grand Bahama Island and Coco Cay. In addition to the regularly scheduled cruise programming, “Sisters on the Sea: Relax, Relate, Renew” will feature Morning Matins (devotional times), Sisters on the Sea gatherings of biblical reflection and conversation, meals together, and Late Night Litanies, a time each evening to give thanks and praise to God.
The first partnership cruise in 2014, “A Time to Serve: Planning to Serve,” offered lay and clergy women the opportunity to learn about the need for self-care in ministry, and created a support network of Christian sisters to walk together on the journey. Back by popular demand, “Sisters on the Sea” in 2017 will focus on building relationships with one another and with Jesus Christ, and understanding our call to be Beloved Community.
“God has created us in God’s own image; God has gifted us to serve in so many different ways,” says the Rev. Dr. Patricia Hernandez, national director of American Baptist Women in Ministry/Transition Ministries. “Building on the synergy of sister connections established last time, join us on this new venture and unique partnership as we explore new ways to serve together in Beloved Community, transforming not just the landscape, but the sea!”
Virginia Holmstrom, executive director of American Baptist Women’s Ministries, commented on the programming elements. “The point of the cruise event is to relax, to relate with God and one another, and to renew—physically, spiritually, and emotionally. Scheduled programming will be minimal and meaningful. The added value is having the many amenities and itinerary of a cruise ship available to enjoy, too. It’s a great venue for a national event!”
For information and registration, visit www.abwministries.org/cruise. Special cabin rates are in effect until January 22, 2017.
American Baptist Women’s Ministries is a Christ-centered ministry with a commitment to encourage and empower women and girls to serve God.
American Baptist Women in Ministry seeks the full participation and full partnership of men and women in ministry in which both women and men are able to fully utilize their God-given gifts and fully live out their God-given calls.
American Baptist Churches is one of the most diverse Christian denominations today, with approximately 5,000 local congregations comprised of 1.3 million members, across the United States and Puerto Rico, all engaged in God’s mission around the world.