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“Breathe”
Gallatin Gateway, MT
September 10-15, 2003
“How has “Breathe” impacted your faith journey?”
“Breathe” has impacted my faith journey immensely. It forced
me to step out of my comfort zone – push limits in all areas.
Expanded my awareness of other’s struggles with faith to
strengthen my own. “Breathe” pushed me to strengthen and push
forward with my commitment to the Lord. To strengthen the
desire to re-commit and discipline my self to spend more
private time with God and to concentrate on His will and
direction for my purpose.”
“In more ways then I imagined it would! I feel I have learned
so much! First of all the materials Mary Jean wrote and gave
to us was absolutely exceptional. The content guided us to
look at ourselves, our relationships and the part God plays in
our lives. The we looked at how we can strengthen
relationships with God. I will continue this “Breathe” booklet
and refer to it often. I myself feel like I was able to look at my prayer life
and make some new commitments to God. I come home excited
about reading my Bible and applying God to my life in so many
ways. Everyone who went had many gifts to share with each
other. We supported each other, laughed and learned the value
of fellowship. This trip has put my faith journey back
pointing “North”. I’m very blessed to have had this
opportunity to share this trip with God, myself, and others.”
“The retreat “Breathe” was incredible! My heart was
changed by the many, many experiences. I found true Christian
qualities in others that I admired and will strive to use as
models for my life.!!! Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all
things God works for the good of those who love him, who have
been called according to his purpose.”
“It took me to a beautiful, quiet, serene environment where I
felt a closer connection to God. Away from my daily
responsibilities (personal and professional). In that
environment I was able to reflect and seek clarity and focus
on priorities. MJ inspired all of
us with her strong faith, gentle encouragement and knowledge
of outdoor life. A wonderful and valuable experience.”
“I’ve received another faith booster shot over the
past 5 days. This retreat provided continuous reminders that I
need to “breathe”, to simplify and prioritize my life, to
clear my mind in the midst of his wonderful creation and
fellowship of new-found Christian friends. Each quiet time
helped me reflect on my blessings from God. It made me want to
work to become disciplined in my daily life at home to allow
for quiet time. Overall, I MUST continue to allow the Holy
Spirit to act through me to minister to others and to learn
from others.”
“There is a part of me that longs to be more “plugged in” to
God. There is also a part of me that fights the discipline
necessary to draw closer tooth and nail. This trip has shown
me how much I need to make time to concentrate solely on the
Lord, read the Bible and pray. Everything else will follow.
God has and will continue to show me what is really important
and what is “detail”. I witnessed true surrender in action and
the dangers of independence. No one is alone in Christ. 2
Corinthians 3:3 “You show that you are a letter from Christ,
the result of our ministry, written not in ink, but with the
Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on
tablets of human hearts.”
“Breathe” allowed me to step back from regular
routine and focus on my faith walk with Christ. I learned to
focus on trusting Christ for everything and to take small
steps one at a time, whether on trail, or in life. Our group
discussions were awesome and the Lord brought this group of
strangers together very close in a short amount of time. Mary
Jean was prepared in every way, always leading with the quiet
confidence of Christ. My only suggestion for improvement is to
include the group in an actual worship service such as at
Soldier’s Chapel. Thank you First Lutheran and thank you Mary
Jean."
“Breathe” has impacted my faith journey by
challenging me to look around rather than always looking for
answers. “Breathe” has reminded me to do just that…breather.
Thank you for your passion to lead women into a closer
communion with God. “Whether you turn to the right or to the
left, your ears will hear a voice behind you saying, “This is
the way; walk in it.” Isaiah 30:21
"This is my first experience with a Christian
retreat. I have been a member at First for several years and
used to teach Sunday School. I was looking for a way to get
involved again and perhaps meet some other First members. Upon
seeing this “Breathe” retreat, it seemed to call to me. I felt
I was at a point where I needed some time to reflect and
re-focus. I had no idea what to expect but for me it was a
terrific experience. There were times on the retreat that I
wasn’t comfortable, but eventually realized I was being
challenged to stretch and grow in my Christian faith. It was a
very humbling experience but at the same time, it holds me in
awe. Mary Jean has an incredible knack to push you to grow
without you even knowing it. I am grateful that I was able to
meet her and interact with her. God is definitely working
through to minister to her. My favorite Bible verse is “For
where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” Mary
Jean is most certainly a treasure! I’m thankful for the
opportunity and look forward with anticipation to continue my
faith journey. Praise God!"
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