DAVIS—On April 17-18, more than 2,000 women gathered at Falls Creek for the annual Women’s Retreat. The retreat encouraged women to ‘Draw Near’ to God with confidence, hold fast to hope and encourage one another.
In addition to in-person attendance, more than 40 host churches around the state participated in the Women’s Retreat through local events that tapped into the content offered at the retreat.
Many women responded with professions of faith and other spiritual decisions. Each year, the retreat is designed to help women be grounded in God’s Word, strengthen their faith and be encouraged to live out their calling.
Oklahoma Baptists Women’s and Missions Ministry Partner Amy Cordova believes the year’s retreat was as impactful as ever.
“My favorite part of the retreat is always seeing women come together around God’s Word. There’s something powerful about women of different ages, backgrounds, and churches sitting side by side, being encouraged and reminded of truth together,” said Cordova.
This year’s Women’s Retreat theme was “Draw Near” inviting women to grow closer to God and to others.
Cordova emphasized the quality and impact of the event speakers. “We had an excellent group of speakers. The Lord really moved at the retreat.”
The 2026 Women’s Retreat featured speakers including the following:
–Jennifer Rothschild, who has authored 20 books and Bible studies
–Sheila Walsh, an author, Bible teacher and Christian broadcaster
–Jeff Iorg, Author and President and CEO of the SBC Executive Committee
–Andrea Lennon, Director of Lifeway Women
–Sandy Wisdom-Martin, executive director-treasurer for national WMU
–Angela Sanders, Christian author, speaker, and ministry strategist
–Samantha Decker, author and Bible teacher
–Jamy Fisher, Bible teacher who has served in ministry alongside her husband, Oklahoma Baptists Executive Director-Treasurer Todd Fisher
“This year, we saw women respond in salvation and other spiritual decisions, which is always the most meaningful part of the weekend. Beyond that, we heard many stories of women who came in feeling weary, disconnected, or unsure, and left encouraged and reminded of God’s faithfulness. Some shared that it was exactly what they needed, while others talked about renewed commitment to spend time with the Lord and to reconnect in community,” added Cordova.
Each year, an offering is taken up during the retreat. This year, Women’s Retreat attendees generously gave nearly $15,000 to the offering. The funds will go toward International Mission Board (IMB) Eastern Edges Team and Disciple Making Training for Leaders.
“These generous donations help us partner with national leaders to host gatherings that encourage and equip those serving in rural communities. From fishermen to church leaders, God is raising up men and women in a war-torn country to shepherd His people and share His Word,” said Cordova.
Cordova added, “One thing new for this year was two pre-session breakout panels on Friday afternoon. One was led by Women’s Minister, Morgan McGhee, from Yukon, Together We, focusing on the importance of community within the church. The second panel was led by Oklahoma WMU President, Kennedy Lehew, and included IMB missionaries, offering practical insight into how we can better care for and pray for those serving around the world.”
The Women’s Retreat also highlighted an urgent issue in the church and society today: loneliness.
According to sources, “In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General declared loneliness an epidemic, warning that its health impact is as dangerous as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Chronic loneliness increases the risk of heart disease, dementia, stroke, depression, and premature death. Strong, meaningful connections are essential to our overall well-being.”
Cordova emphasized that “the church is the cure, connecting with Christ and with each other.”
For all those at Falls Creek or participating at host churches, the Women’s Retreat drew each one closer to God.
For more information about the Women’s Retreat, visit https://www.oklahomabaptists.org/women/retreat/
