The city was still healing from the devastating blows of Hurricane Helene, with many of the 1,000 attendees having just regained power the previous week. Some had lost homes, trees, and—most heartbreakingly—loved ones. Yet, amid their trials, they chose to gather and find solace in God’s grace.

Ann Voskamp reminded us that sometimes “the obstacle in the way” is how God makes a way. She shared profound insights about life with thorns, assuring us that even in pain, there is beauty and purpose. Then Michael O’Brien led us in worship, his music lifting our spirits and uniting our voices in praise.

This event was particularly special for me and Phil, as it was held at Warren Church where our former pastor, David McKinley, now shepherds. Reconnecting with him and his wife, Connie, plus old friends and family certainly added an extra layer of warmth to our time in Augusta.

That includes my BFF from college, Tammer, who was there, as well as my BFF from my twenties, Kathryn, who showed up and surprised me! Fun, right?!

I also got to reconnect with my 91-year-old cousin, Alice Garrison, and believe it or not, her granddaughter, Jenna Carrick, is one of the amazing women who helped pull off this conference at Warren Church. I love my cousins!

Jenna worked side by side with Jacqueline Heider, our Local Conference Coordinator, to make FGF a reality even in the midst of all the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. What amazing women!

But they weren’t the only ones…

There were over a hundred women from several co-host churches in the area who volunteered for the event, and they all showed up ready to serve and encourage the women in their community.

And as they served, the Lord was at work…

We celebrated 6 new sisters in Christ, 49 women who chose to renew their commitment to the Lord, and 27 children sponsored through Compassion International. Praise the Lord!

Amidst the heartache left by the hurricane, the women in Augusta shone as beacons of hope and faith. Their presence was a powerful reminder that even in our darkest hours, gathering together can light the way forward.

Blessings,

Jennifer and the FGF Team!

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