Even with the threat of an impending snow storm, close to one hundred women from the Eparchy of Parma and local churches in Barberton filled the social hall of St. Nicholas Byzantine Church for Ladies Day Out2015.
The cold day in January began with Liturgy and followed with a made-from-scratch continental breakfast for guests. The “ladies only” festivities began a little before noon when they gathered to participate in communal prayer and sing to the song, “Pray for Peace”.
The sentiment, unity and fellowship of singing and praying together touched the hearts of all and rest assured there was not a dry eye to found! Next, Victoria Gutbrod, a local Christian counselor, took center stage and presented a thought provoking lecture on “Enough”. Her talk centered on “how”, as children of God, we need to stop looking for other things to fulfill us and realize that God made us “enough”.
Afterwards, two hours of activities filled the roster. From a room full of massage therapists to ease the stresses of the day to a Nail Bar with polishes, creams and lotions, women were chatting, giggling and simply enjoying being with one another.
A handcrafted community thumbprint wall hanging and take-home recycled denim craft projects, as well as, a lottery ticket stuffed Coach purse raffle, rounded out the afternoon. Towards the end, the guests gathered for additional communal prayer, then ended up dancing and singing to the song “People Loving People” before sitting down to delicious catered Italian dinner. While dining, the women were entertained by an energetic, diverse and informative fashion show presented by a local community “free store”, Common Threads of Barberton.
Overall, Ladies Day Out 2015 by St. Ann’s Ministry was truly an afternoon of faith, fellowship and a whole lot of fun!
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