At our 2025 He Makes All Things New Women’s Retreat, themed God Is Our Redeemer 377 survivors gathered in the presence of our Heavenly Father, who restores all things. Throughout the weekend, we experienced the redeeming love of God in deeply personal ways—safe to open old wounds, release years of pain, and worship in freedom. It was a holy and unforgettable glimpse of healing in motion.

We invite you to take a moment to read the powerful stories shared by those who attended.

To our retreat sponsors, scholarship donors, financial partners, speakers, staff, and volunteers—thank you. Your generosity made this life-changing weekend possible for each of these precious women! 

“I was so excited for this weekend—and it didn’t disappoint. At last year’s retreat, I felt freedom after leaving my abusive relationship. This year, just two weeks after my divorce was finalized, I came feeling raw and emotional—but God met me right where I was. Every speaker brought the truth I needed, especially Leslie’s message about rewriting our stories and choosing to let God define our future, not our past. Talking with women who understood was healing, and Joy’s sand dollar story reminded me to be still and let God shift my perspective. Lake Junaluska felt like home—this retreat was exactly what my heart needed.” – “Jamie”

“I came to the retreat unsure if I’d belong, but I left knowing I was part of a sisterhood that sees, hears, and honors survivors of abuse like me. Worshipping with women from across the world and praying at “Inspiration Point” at Lake Junaluska felt like standing on holy ground. For the first time in a long time, I felt safe to show up without a mask—fully known and fully loved. I returned home filled to the brim with hope, healing, and the reminder that my story still matters.”  –“Christina”

“As a first-time attendee, the Lord carved out new space in my heart—filling it with truth that validated my pain and brought light to places that were once consumed by darkness. Just as He promises in Isaiah 61:1, He led me out of the shadows and into His light. The freedom found in His truth is nothing short of life-changing.”  –Teresa 

“This retreat was the answer to a 36-year-old prayer—to meet another SRA survivor. For decades, I carried the weight of my past alone, met with silence, gaslighting, and rejection. But through a simple Facebook post and a divine connection, God opened a door. At the retreat, I found what I never thought was possible: love, acceptance, and a community that truly sees me. It was more than healing—it was a miracle. I’ve turned a corner, and now, with my tribe beside me, I can finally walk in freedom and joy.” –“Shannon”

“This was my first time attending the Called to Peace Ministries retreat. I received a scholarship to attend, for which I am incredibly grateful. I was able to take the time and space I needed to begin my healing journey. I’m so thankful that I was able to go at my own pace with no expectations to heal in a certain way or follow a particular formula. I was met where I am at in my journey, and that made all the difference in finding the strength I needed to pursue healing.” –“Janie”

“This retreat was very cleansing and healing for me in ways I can’t yet describe. I didn’t expect the emotions to come, but they did. I have been shedding happy tears for all that God has brought me through and for how he is redeeming my spaces, places, and faces. While at the retreat, I felt like I was in a safe bubble that I didn’t want to pop. Lake Junaluska is a sacred place and this retreat was one of the highlights of my year.” –Alison

“This retreat was a powerful experience of redemption. After years in legalism and an abusive, controlling marriage, I finally worshiped in freedom—and felt the Holy Spirit breathe new life into places I thought were dead. God restored a precious friendship and reminded me who I truly am. I found my identity not in my past, but in Him—I am His, fully known, fully loved, and finally free.” -“Sonya”

“Last year’s retreat brought clarity as to what I was truly dealing with in my abusive marriage, as well as peace and strength to walk the very difficult path ahead. This year, the Lord gave me clarification, confirmation and restored joy. I found myself giggling and bantering more playfully this year. It felt so good to be me again.” –“Tina”

“As the retreat ended, a woman I’d never met hugged me, thinking I was someone else. When we realized the mistake, she called it a divine appointment—and it was. God filled our unexpected conversation with truth, healing, and connection. All weekend, I witnessed how the Holy Spirit moved through quiet moments—shared meals, late-night talks, and unexpected encounters. It reminded me that even when we feel unseen, God sees us and sends exactly who we need at exactly the right time.” –Louise 

“This retreat was one of the most validating experiences of my life. The speakers brought powerful truth—offering hope without minimizing the hard realities we’ve lived. The worship times gave me space to process at the feet of Jesus, but the most impactful moments  were the mealtime conversations—sharing stories, being heard, and finally feeling seen. My weary heart left encouraged and renewed.” -“Savannah”

 

The 2025 women’s retreat was more than an event—it was a turning point for women healing from domestic abuse. These survivor stories testify to a God who redeems what was broken, restores what was stolen, and renews hearts weighed down by trauma. If you or someone you love is walking through the aftermath of abuse, know this: healing is possible, and you are not alone. Called to Peace Ministries offers Christ-centered support for survivors every step of the way. To learn more, explore our resources, connect with our community, or join us at a future retreat where hope and healing continue.