Welcome to the Victory Blog

I can have it all… Really?

“I can bring home the bacon, fry it up in a pan, and never let him forget he’s a man. Cause I’m a woman.” The 1980s ad for perfume is one of the audio/visual examples used for the night. It is fitting since, we, as women have been taught (at least since the sexual revolution) that we can have it all, and have it all at the same time. Tonight is about the dangers of believing that myth.

As with any Chick Chat meeting, the women have come out in droves. It is a virtual potpourri of femininity. Women of all ages and from every culture and socio economic background, and educational experience have come to get the knowledge offered by a successful panel of women which include Pastor Colleen, Shaunti Feldhahn, a bestselling author, speaker and nationally-syndicated newspaper columnist, and Valorie Burton, also an author and certified personal and executive coach. The teachings tonight come not just from their own personal experiences but also from years of study and what may be hundreds, if not thousands, of interviews with women at various stages in their lives.

Sitting in the V1 auditorium, the atmosphere is all abuzz with excitement. There is a joyous sense of relief as the panel discussion becomes clearer to the audience and we as women realize we don’t need to kill ourselves trying to gain it all in one season. We can forgive ourselves and not hold onto the guilt we feel about not being able to achieve in Corporate America while baking homemade cookies and pies for the PTA. It’s about give and take. This is the final Chick Chat of 2011.

We are reminded that it is good to have it all but we won’t have it all in one season.  Valorie tells us about the “hedonic treadmill.” She explains that on this treadmill you are chasing after what you think you need in order to be happy. Once you get it, you are happy. But that happiness is fleeting and off you go on the treadmill again chasing the next object of your happiness. She explains what scientists call “decision fatigue” – the idea that it is good to have choices but too many choices can overwhelm and depress.

How do we, as women, become successful? It all depends on your definition of success. The women in this room have differing opinions. For some it is happiness, comfort and spiritual motivation. For others it is love and support from family. Some say it is the balance between fulfillment and priorities or the success of their children.

Here is what this writer took from the meeting — satisfying your needs will make you happy, but how do you truly know what it is you want?

1) Ask questions of yourself

2) Be honest with yourself

3) Be thankful and appreciative for what you have at the moment

Remember that there are certain tradeoffs you make in order to be happy or successful. Some of us have given up on some things in order to have other things. Some of us have made mistakes that have gotten us where we are today.  Be able to forgive yourself and don’t place your measure of being a woman on what the media tells you it is.

The words of wisdom from the night are prolific and powerful.  Valorie says, “There has got to be an answer for modern women because God would not leave us with a Bible that gradually becomes obsolete.”

Pastor Colleen says, “Every created thing has a reason it was created. We are all called to do certain things. You cannot operate in ways that you were not designed.”

Shaunti broke it down as such:  “We are made in God’s image, created as women, and finally, created as you. Where those 3 things come together is your calling, what you are built for, where you thrive.”

This life is about having choices and making the right ones. Where is God leading you?

HER LIFE WORKS is a new ministry created by these three dynamic women of God. It will begin on January 20 and is designed to teach women how to apply the Bible to their daily lives. The ministry will meet and be broken down into groups of like-minded women, with entrepreneurs in one group, single moms in another group, etc.  Essentially, the ministry will help women to access one another and to navigate successfully and spiritually. Look for HER LIFE WORKS at the beginning of the year.

Don’t blow Your Budget…

Your emotional budget that is…. Even before I made it out of the building on Friday night I had begun using my “emotional currency.” As I awkwardly held a piece of Tiramisu in my hand and stood in line for a napkin, the woman in front of me backed up, putting her elbow into my dessert, and then looked at me and moved away without so much as an ‘excuse me.’ I could have easily adopted the “Oh, no you didn’t” attitude, but that would have been wasted “emotional currency.” Instead, I just smiled as I thought about the message we’d just heard. Then I caught up with her and used my napkin to wipe her elbow clean; an emotional investment I was glad to make.

Hello ladies. Did you attend the last ChickChat? No? Well, you missed a treat. And I’m not just talking about the Tiramisu. The night was hosted by Pastor Colleen and she ministered to us as only a true girlfriend could. The topic for the night explored why we, as women, are exhausted emotionally. Many times we blame our situation or make excuses that a certain person caused us to react a certain way. By reacting in “that way,” we cause ourselves to become drained emotionally.

Pastor Colleen equated it in terms of money, which made the audience sit up and take notice. She explained that the same way money can be spent, lost, stolen, wasted or invested, so can your emotions. She gave us various examples of situations and different ways of dealing with them. Pastor Colleen explained that we are given so much emotional currency on a daily basis, and we must learn to build it and budget it. If we don’t, we run the risk of an emotional NSF and over time, becoming emotionally bankrupt.

Examples were used that described different interactions with the people we deal with every day—your employer, your spouse, your toddler, your teenager, a friend, and a stranger. By showing us everyday interactions with the people in our lives, Pastor Colleen pointed out the “emotional energy” spent, lost, wasted or invested in the ways that we deal with each situation. That Friday night, so many women saw themselves wasting “emotional energy” in the neck rolls and finger wagging that comes with the attitude of not being stepped on… or stepped over. It took Pastor Colleen’s ChickChat to point out that we are not “pushovers, but overcomers.”

Doing a quick examination of situations as they develop and dealing with them in a positive manner at that time, we are investing our “emotional currency” and putting an end to some of the stress that we’ve dealt with when we otherwise cop an attitude and waste our energy or spend from our emotional budget unwisely. Another lesson taught that night is that as women, we feel we have to deal with situations when they are really not situations at all. So we are creating situations which are also wastes of our emotional energy.

Don’t waste your “emotional currency.” Once you blow the budget, you’ll have nothing left to give. Remember that it is yours to invest or spend wisely.

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We want to hear about what God has done in and through you at Victory. Whether long or short, complex or simple, your story is worth hearing, and there are others who need to hear it. Won’t you please consider sharing your story with us? If you’re willing to do so, please click the Share Your Story quicklink above, write your story, upload a nice photo (if you can) and click submit. It’s that simple. Now, don’t be shy. God’s given you a story for a reason! Share it today!

With record high temperatures across much of the country, let’s face it – this has been a HOT summer! But on July 22^nd, in the midst of the heat, ChickChat served up a cool dose of “girl power.” With Summer Bowie leading the way, the ladies of Victory World Church in Norcross, Georgia, sat back, chilled out and enjoyed an evening filled with love, laughter and fellowship.

The Praise Team got the evening off to a great start and after the ladies of the Praise Team topped off the set with a fantastic performance of “You Save Me,” Summer dove into her message entitled “Better.”

Most of us had dreams and aspirations while growing up, but how many of us are living those dreams and aspirations now?  Summer shared her dreams and the story of her journey to fulfill her biggest dream, only to discover that God’s plans are always better than anything we can plan.  Jeremiah 29:11 says: “For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome.” (AMP)  God’s plan is not always bigger, but it is always better. Unfortunately, our own impatience and fear can steer us away from God’s plan. Summer used several scriptures to demonstrate this.

In Genesis 12:1-3, the Lord said to Abram “Leave your native country, your relatives, and your father’s family, and go to the land that I will show you.  I will make you into a great nation. I will bless you and make you famous, and you will be a blessing to others. I will bless those who bless you and curse those who treat you with contempt. All the families will be blessed through you.” (NLT)  While Abram’s plan for his life probably did not resemble God’s, he did recognize God’s plan was better and he went forward in obedience. What great things are passing you by because you are not following God’s plan?

Then in Genesis 15:4 the Lord says to Abram “No, your servant will not be your heir, for you will have a son of your own who will be your heir.” (NLT)  The bible tells us that Abram’s wife, Sarai, desperate to give her husband an heir, took matters into her own hands, resulting in heartache and turmoil that was never part of God’s plan. What heartache and turmoil have you created in your life by taking matters into your own hands?

Finally in Genesis 17, God’s promise to Abram was fulfilled and Isaac was born when Abram, now Abraham, was 100 years old and Sarai, now Sarah, was 91.  I’m sure chasing after a toddler at that age was not part of their plan, but God’s plan was better.

Summer reminded the married ladies that they were part of God’s plan for their husbands and encouraged the single ladies by telling them that God has a plan for their lives.

Our God is faithful, and His plan often takes longer than we would like, but it is always worth the wait. Can you have faith like Abraham and Sarah? Are you willing to wait for better?

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We want to hear about what God has done in and through you at Victory. Whether long or short, complex or simple, your story is worth hearing, and there are others who need to hear it. Won’t you please consider sharing your story with us? If you’re willing to do so, please go to our homepage, victoryatl.com and click the Share Your Story quicklink, write your story, upload a nice photo (if you can) and click submit. It’s that simple. Now, don’t be shy. God’s given you a story for a reason! Share it today!

Are you struggling with something? Not living life to the fullest? Feeling  overwhelmed at times?  Well the first ChickChat of 2010 was meant for you, for me and every woman that answered, ‘yes.’ Pastor Colleen came forth with a message that’s bound to enhance our lives, as we set out to become The Centered Woman:

How can we do life better? By refusing to allow FEAR to determine what we can do. Becoming a Centered Woman means…

Focus

How many of us are bowing down to the wrong things, when we’re not focused we have difficulty making decisions.  When our focus is on the wrong things, it doesn’t get us anywhere. Lack of focus will lead to discouragement.

Resolution

Unresolved issues will open the door to deception. We often get defensive when we have unknowing and unresolved issues. That’s why we must live in and walk out Gods continual liberty. From condemnation to confidence, we have to search our hearts and have confidence in His mercy and grace. We must be teachable – believe God can give us the perspective and clarity of what’s really going on.

Setting Guards

Most importantly, we need to set some guards and allow those guards to call the shots. God has given us a blue print as “diamonds in his kingdom”.

Speaking of diamonds…a watch from the Diamond Warehouse was given away as a doorprize to the lucky lady whose chair had a green piece of paper under it!!!

Pastor Colleen’s lesson was very touching and is bound to change some things in the lives of those who attended. But don’t take my word for it.  Here are some opinions from other ChickChat attendee’s:

Patrica – I really enjoyed myself. This was my first ChickChat and first time meeting Pastor Colleen. I can tell she really knows the word with scriptures to back it up.

Trish – I felt very touched, I could feel the anointing of Pastor Colleen’s words.

Angela – Awesome! God is a God of order. My coming out tonight was confirmation of the things I suppose to be doing.

Dawnia – This was my first ChickChat, it was really helpful and I really enjoyed myself. I will be asking God, “What He has for me to do” daily. I want to be proactive rather than reactive. I wasn’t sure if I would make it out tonight, I’m really glad I did.

Kim – I really enjoyed the lesson and had a good time hanging out with the girls. I’ve been to every ChickChat except for one.  I can’t wait for the next one.

~ Renee J.

With the start of the holiday season quickly approaching, Pastor Colleen Rouse hosted the last ChickChat of 2009 on Friday, November 20th.  “I’ve been to a few ChickChats before and they’ve been amazing.” said Alysha McCree as she strolled around the elegantly decorated Victory World Church V1 main lobby “I appreciate the opportunity to be fed by my Senior Pastor, but I really appreciate the opportunity to fellowship and share.”  At 26, Alysha knows many of her peers could use the wisdom, love and sense of camaraderie that can only come from other women.  “If they’ve come this far without having women pour into their lives, they need to be here.”

Of course, no ChickChat would be complete without the awesome work of the Victory Special Events Team lead by wonder woman Catherine Bach, and they did not disappoint!  Beautifully decorated tables offering assorted teas and beverages dotted the V1 floor creating an easy and relaxed atmosphere.  New mom Susan, attending her second ChickChat, gazed around the lobby taking it all in. “My first experience at ChickChat was good.  It gave me the opportunity to learn.” As her sister-in-law, and first time attendee, Marini, joined her, she continued, “I think it is important to get knowledge and learn how to manage life.”  Marini smiled and added, “I just wanted to come and experience it.”

As the crowd, undeterred by the chilly autumn air and threat of rain, continued to file in, Ada Lopez settled back into one of the conversation areas.   When asked why she attends ChickChat she replied “This is a time for us women to come together.  This allows us to be ministered to and grow together.  I feel great after I come.”

Once the sanctuary doors opened, the evening’s emcee, Ashley Sheering, welcomed the audience and got things off to a great start with a tee shirt toss.  Then, the Victory Praise Team took the stage and warmed the crowd up with praise and worship.  After a short video clip featuring people juggling various objects, Pastor Colleen took the stage to deliver her message entitled “From Marginal Women to Women with Margin,” and what a message it was.  Talk about timely.

Many women will spend the next four weeks agonizing over decorating the house, preparing the perfect holiday meal, shopping for the perfect gifts and serving in various ministries, and will find themselves stretched to their limit.  Think about the days leading up to Thanksgiving, for instance.  Wednesday night comes, you’re making your list and checking it twice.  Turkey – check.  Recipe for Aunt Betty’s special oyster stuffing – check.  Ingredients for your very own so-good-it-will-make-Paula Deen-envious pumpkin pie – check.  Circulars for the Friday sales along with maps and store floor plans – check.  Weight Watchers membership information – check.  See what I mean?  By the time the New Year comes you could find yourself suffering from one of three maladies of the soul:

1. Performance Virus – Doing because you should
2. Perfection Infection – Doing because you can
3. Disease to Please – Doing because you must

Do you make Aunt Betty’s special oyster stuffing because you want to or because it’s a family tradition?  If it’s only because it’s a family tradition you may have Performance Virus.  Ask yourself will it really matter if the stuffing comes from a box?  Besides, do you even like oyster stuffing?  What about your pumpkin pie?  Sure you can make a great pie, but will the world stop if the pumpkin pie comes from the local grocery store?  Probably not, but if you’re convinced it will, then maybe you have Perfection Infection.  Must you get up at 3am on Friday to stand in line with a bunch of other stressed out women to fight over a toy your 4-year old won’t remember next year?  If so then you may be suffering from Disease to Please.  Could you be suffering from one or all of these maladies?  Sadly, most of us are, but there is hope.

Pastor Colleen explained that we need to examine our motives in doing for others, and we need to beware of martyrdom.  Ephesians 2:8 says: “For it is by free grace that you are saved through faith. And this is not of yourselves but it is the gift of God.”  Pastor Colleen encouraged us to embrace His unlimited love (Jeremiah 31:3) and embrace our limited abilities (Psalms 121:1).  She also reminded us that we must master the ability to live within the awareness of the Source of our empowerment.  It’s not about balance it’s about focus.

To top off the evening, we were blessed by surprise guest, Valorie Burton, author of the book “How Did I Get So Busy?” Valorie helped reinforce Pastor Colleen’s message by sharing her own insight and giving the audience something to think about when she cautioned that the enemy keeps us busy to get us off track and keep us away from God’s purpose.  A hilarious question and answer session followed, which included tips for managing your e-mail inbox, effective Blackberry use and overcoming Facebook addiction.  By the end of the evening we had learned that we must have fun, tame our tech habits and most importantly, govern our souls.

Afterwards, the “chicks” returned to the V1 lobby to gather in the candlelit conversation areas and (what else?) chat while enjoying specially brewed coffees and delectable desserts, including a tasty chocolate treat that quickly disappeared.

If you missed ChickChat this year, have no fear, the first ChickChat of 2010 is planned for February 19.  So mark your calendars and come expecting to have fun and be blessed! ~ Karla E.

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(click an image to see entire gallery of photos from this event)

A few years ago, the group Rascal Flatts had a huge hit with a song called Life is a Highway. Maybe you’ve heard it – the chorus goes: “Life is a highway; I want to ride it all night long…” The highway of life is an amazing journey, but it can be dangerous, and if we’re not paying attention, we’ll wind up in places we never planned on visiting: Exit 15 – Sex addiction, Exit 23 – Porn addiction.

If you attend Victory World Church then you are well aware that Pastors Dennis and Colleen are not afraid to hit the highway and get into an occasional collision; and on Friday, September 18th, that is exactly what happened when the church and pornography collided in an event called Porn and Pastries.

Statistics show that 20% of Christian women are addicted to pornography, and with 50% of Christian men also addicted, there are a lot of Christian women who are impacted by pornography. Because most churches have been reluctant to discuss the topic of pornography, these women have suffered through the pain and shame of porn addiction alone and in silence. That is until Porn and Pastries.

Seven years ago, Pastor Craig Gross founded XXXChurch.com to help people struggling with porn addiction. In 2006, he began Porn and Pancakes, which gives men the opportunity to come together and discuss porn over a pancake breakfast. Seeing the need to offer the same support and outreach to women, Porn and Pastries was created. Christian women discussing pornography? Can you imagine? No way; that will never happen! Well, it did happen and we had the awesome opportunity to host over 900 women who came out to learn about the devastating effects of pornography on individuals and families.  Even the Atlanta Journal Constitution and the Associated Press took note.

Tammy Smart, a member of Victory, came out to learn about porn addiction “I’m always looking to learn something new. This is a great opportunity to learn about something we don’t discuss and be able to get Godly truth.” As the women sat at tables set up on the floor of the main sanctuary, enjoying pastries and parfaits served by Catherine Bachman’s Hospitality Dream Team, music and laughter filled the room. “Esto es muy importante debido a la libertad que tenemos que escuchar y hablar la verdad,” responded Vianey Cortez, when asked about the importance of the evening. (Translation: This is very important because of the freedom we have to hear and speak the truth.) Her friends Patricia and Rosanna agreed, “It will be a great opportunity to hear this kind of truth uncovered. People will be delivered and set free.”

As more women filtered in, the Hospitality Team – outfitted in safari hats – deftly maneuvered through the crowd, providing coffee and ensuring empty pastry plates were quickly replenished, while Summer Bowie welcomed the crowd and opened the evening in prayer. Although the prospect of hearing frank talk about pornography made some a little uneasy, there was an overwhelming sense that the discussion was needed. “I invited several people,” said Betsy Wolf as she settled into her seat, “Some declined because they are not married. But this is not just for married women. This will give us the opportunity to guard against it and get knowledge to help others.”

After praise and worship led by Heather Mangum and an interpretive dance routine, Pastor Colleen took the stage and told the audience that they were “courageous” and “a catalyst for change”. “Tonight we’re going to hear truth!” she declared to a thunderous round of applause. As the crowd settled down, Pastor Colleen introduced Craig Gross. A hush fell over the sanctuary as he explained why he founded XXXChurch.com and how pornography can start off seemingly innocent and without warning become a dangerous, often destructive addiction. He warned about the dangers of the Internet and the need for monitoring and accountability for children and adults when online.

While Craig’s message was powerful and disturbing, Michele Truax’s personal story of the devastating impact her husband’s pornography addiction had on their marriage struck a nerve. Michele shared that she, like many women, was aware of her husband’s issues with pornography prior to their marriage, but thought they would go away after marriage. “It’s important as women to know who we are in Christ. Not the superficial image.” She explained to the crowd. While her husband’s addiction to porn left Michele feeling like she was nothing and filled with hurt, bitterness and anger, Michele stressed the importance of forgiveness. “Stay close to the Godly people in your life,” Michele advised, “and serve. Serving gets you out of yourself.”

Just when the crowd thought they had heard all they needed to know about pornography, author Shelly R. Warren took the stage and completely mesmerized the crowd with her personal story of being addicted to pornography and sex. Unabashedly and unflinchingly she discussed the allure of porn and the impact her sexual promiscuity had on her mind, body and soul. Shelly explained that porn was a gateway and illustrated the dangers of allowing gateways into our souls by reading 1 Timothy 4. Shelly’s story was not warm and fuzzy, and definitely not something you would expect to hear in church; and while Shelly’s disarming charm and wit brought a lightness and sense of humor that allowed the audience to laugh, it was clear – porn, no matter how harmless it may seem, is dangerous and destructive. “Low self-esteem,” Shelly explained, “is the biggest problem. We need to see our value.” Shelly punctuated this by reading Matthew 7:6.

By the end of the night, the message was clear – keep your eyes on the road and steer clear of those seemingly innocent exits on your journey down the highway of life. ~ Karla E.

What do you get when you take a group of ladies, mix in love and support, and throw in a splash of Pastor Colleen’s word? You get ChickChat that’s what! On Friday, June 19th, the main lobby of Victory World Church was beautifully transformed into a sleek and sophisticated lounge when Pastor Colleen Rouse hosted another ChickChat. Laura Lee Moore has attended all but one ChickChat and when asked what she got out of attending, she replied, “Pastor Colleen’s wisdom is at our finger tips. The love and camaraderie with other ladies…it’s our time!” As the women mixed, mingled and enjoyed refreshments provided by the always-fantastic Victory Hospitality Team, the evening air was filled with the sounds of music and laughter, creating an atmosphere of warmth and friendship.

Benita Cochran, attending her second ChickChat, made the 70 mile round trip drive because of the bonding. “We leave church and go to our separate worlds. ChickChat allows us to get together as sisters. The testimonies let you see others are going through the same thing. It’s like a sisterhood.” Robin, who was attending for the second time described ChickChat as “up close and personal with Pastor Colleen. We can fellowship and go away feeling like you’ve been to the spa. We need each other. I look forward to hanging out with the girls.” As the sanctuary doors opened and the ladies headed inside to take their seats, Janet Bell and Vida Narh, both from Ghana, said they were excited to be attending ChickChat for the first time.

Once inside, we were treated to praise and worship before Pastor Colleen began her message on the importance of relationships. Having not ever attended a ChickChat before, I was not sure what to expect and after an emotionally draining week, all I wanted to do was sit back, quietly observe, and get some good notes for my article. As Pastor Colleen spoke about creating an infrastructure of peace and outlined the four things the enemy does to try and prevent this, I shifted in my seat. Was she talking to me? Trying my best to be nonchalant, I snuck a quick glance around the sanctuary and saw that every woman was not just listening to Pastor Colleen, but seemed to be hearing what she was saying.

As the evening progressed, she talked about how we give people power over us and how we should not sow seeds of discontent. She then explained what the Spirit of God does for us and I realized I was getting more than some notes for an article. Pastor Colleen delivered a message that was sprinkled with her usual sense of humor but was truthful, enlightening and thought provoking as she concluded her message with a powerful question: The average person will encounter 10,000 people in their lifetime. What kind of experience do we want to give those people?

After a time of prayer and a lively question and answer session, we headed back up to the lobby for an after party complete with an assortment of coffees and hors d’oeuvres. As flickering candles illuminated the small clusters of seating areas, the ladies gathered to talk and reflect on Pastor Colleen’s message. If you’ve been wondering what ChickChat is all about, Linda put it simply: “It ministers to women of all generations. No age gap.” ~ Karla Eyre

Click here to download a PDF of the notes from this ChickChat.

(Click any of the photos to see the entire gallery from this event.)

Friday & Saturday, March 27 & 28, 2009

WOW! Did you get it? If you didn’t get it, then let us tell you! Ladies, what a Chat-acular weekend we shared! Although it was raining and gloomy outside, you would’ve thought the sun was shining inside. From the door, calmness came over your spirit. Whatever troubled you that day troubled you no more. Smiles and laughter filled the church. There was total peace. What more could you ask for?!

Day One of ChickChat Unplugged introduced us to the event theme of, Women Who Get It – in the home, in the workplace, in life. By the end of the night we’d be asking ourselves whether we find ourselves over-promising and then killing ourselves to deliver; laughing at Pastor Colleen’s accurate portrayal of a chemical addiction most of us didn’t know we had; and throwing colorful beach balls high in the air as we sang, danced and got a little closer to becoming Women Who Get It!

The evening began as the ChickChat Worship Band led us in Praise and Worship, they rocked! We could have sung all night long, but we had to clear the stage for Ms. Nicole Michelle our guest fashion and make-up artist, or Fashionista.

Nicole’s presentation began with a video where she showed us how to take a piece of clothing most of us already have in our closets, the black and white dress, and create three, very simple but very different looks for three very separate occasions. She showed us how to add a pink scarf at the waist for a casual look, a jacket and accessories for a day at the office, and some black leggings and silver accents for a night on the town.

Following the video, Nicole took the stage dressed in a trendy black and turquoise outfit that looked like a million bucks. We all were surprised to find out that nothing she was wearing cost more than twenty dollars. Then, she concluded her presentation by showing us how to create affordable jewelry, bath salts, creative gifts and more, proclaiming that she too was a “diva on a budget.”

At the end, we were introduced to a book by author Ginger Garrett called, Beauty Secrets of the Bible: The Ancient Arts of Beauty & Fragrance,  that is based on Queen Esther’s (from the Bible) beauty regimens used prior to going before the king. The book is full of healthy and affordable alternatives that women can make at home to promote healthier skin, healthier hair and a healthier lifestyle over all.

Following Nicole was the main speaker for the evening, our very own, Pastor Colleen Rouse. Her segment was Women Who Get It…In Life. Pastor Colleen’s personal mantra, “I am most responsive to who or what I am most responsible for,” encompassed what she wanted to teach us that night.

She began by relating a personal struggle, a chemical addiction that she discovered she had…one that she knew most women everywhere struggled with too – addiction to adrenaline. At first, it seemed that not everyone was quite sure if they, too, were affected by this addiction. Coffee, Diet Coke…maybe, but adrenaline?…not so much. That was until Pastor Colleen began asking some very relevant questions like, how often we find ourselves over-committing to things for our children, our friends, our spouses. She told stories about being afraid to show up at her daughter’s school in the past with “Kroger cupcakes” instead of ones she baked from scratch on her own. She shared a story about trying to redecorate her home three days prior to hosting the neighborhood cookie exchange. Most importantly, she shared a revelation that she got a few years ago: Life is meant to be enjoyed.

The hard truth was that for most of us, life isn’t always enjoyable. Instead we impose deadlines and demands on ourselves we can’t meet, procrastinate to get the thrill of waiting until the last minute and lose sleep because our adrenaline is on full blast all of the time. With that, she urged us to pick up the remote and find a small button with immeasurable benefits. PAUSE. Pastor Colleen said, “In life, we need moments to pause and reflect, on God’s goodness, on his love, on the gift of our life.” She then led the us through an ancient exercise called, “Palms Up, Palms Down” where we closed our eyes, turned down our palms, and gave all of our burdens and cares up to God. Then, we turned our palms up, eyes still closed, as we said a prayer to receive God’s grace.

Finally, Pastor Colleen encouraged us to also take moments to celebrate something – an accomplishment, a new found peace, a new testimony. She then stood up and announced that it was time for all of us to celebrate as she introduced the Victory Vida Worship Band. As they played upbeat songs, women danced in the aisles, twirled around with friends and hit beach balls into the air that had been released into the crowd. It was very fitting that the lyrics to one of the songs were “I am free,” as free was what everyone was in that moment.

Day One of ChickChat Unplugged ended with an invitation for us to attend do-it-yourself stations for creating jewelry, potpourri and bath salts. So, everyone dismissed, ready to fellowship with new-found friends and then return home for a night’s rest, looking forward to what was in store for Day Two.

The next morning it was time to get out our notebooks, as author Shaunti Feldhahn empowered us with some interesting facts about our men. We also got to question a panel of men…and actually get some answers! Who knew this day would come?!

Shaunti was refreshing, really had her facts together and cleared up a lot of the misunderstandings we have about our men. For instance, did you know the song, Respect, was originally written by a man asking for respect from his wife?! The panel of men was pleased with that fact, and overall, the men did an excellent job giving us feedback on our questions.

Finally, we heard from Pastor Cheryl Hill, and she’s was hilarious while speaking the truth. Pastor Cheryl gave us a breakdown of the Six Kingdom Callings, and shared with us how she prayed about every career choice she made, and how the Lord always made a way. She encouraged us to seek God in all we do in the workplace, and to be of good service, that we may glorify Christ while we’re there!

So, did you get it? Well we did, and we can’t wait until the next women’s conference! Don’t miss it!

~ Quianna C. & Renee J.

(You may view the entire gallery of photos taken at this event by clicking on any of the photos in this post or here.)

Recently, we kicked off another year of our Synergy Women’s Mentoring Program. The mission of Synergy is: To gather seasoned women of God, modern day Deborah’s, who will answer the call to mentor, provide leadership, activate, teach and inspire the younger women to be mighty women of God …women reaching women.

In order to give you a glimpse into that kickoff and the Synergy program as a whole, here are the perspectives of both a mentor and a mentee who are participating this year:

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Mentor ~ Gladys T.

I arrived to the Synergy Launch with much excitement. You see, I was part of the original pilot program two years ago. Upon arriving at the venue, I was amazed to see how much Synergy has grown in such a short period. To see it from birth to now having over 170 women, all of which either had a mentor role, mentee role, or a coach role was exciting.

The atmosphere was full of excitement and curiosity. The mentee’s and mentors did not know with whom they would be paired. However, once that was revealed, the atmosphere was full of electricity and charged up as mentors and mentees started to break new ground by getting to know one another, taking photos together and discussing goals while enjoying a tea and hors d’oeuvres.

Synergy is a nine-month commitment in which the mentors and mentees enter into a covenant to be part of each other’s lives for the coming months. As a mentor, I am excited that I have been given this opportunity to share my experiences in life and to be transparent with someone else whom God has placed in my life for this season. In that, I pray our relationship will grow deep, that we’ll be connected to one another from a heart level instead of just a head level.

This is an exciting time as we carry out the things that our Lord instructs us to carry out as spiritual mentors. Tit 2:4: “That we may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.”

This is an opportunity to speak into someone’s life, to help them unlock the gifts that are within them. It’s a chance to lead, to guide, to practice the presence of God together. It is a season in which to encourage, to uplift, to advise, to correct gently with a spirit of love. It’s a time to share a cup of coffee or tea with a godly friend that will listen, and one in which we can help others in practical ways.

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Mentee ~ Shannon K.

After arriving and checking in, I walked into the auditorium. The whole room was set up beautifully. There were 20 or so tables, all of them matching the Synergy colors of pink and brown. I found my table, which was all the way on the other side of the room, and took a seat. It was nice to see many people I know from the church or Fusion.

Catherine Bachman and Pastor Colleen, welcomed us and talked with us about Syne

rgy. They then had us play a game at our table. We were to talk amongst ourselves and come up with three to five things that we all had in common. It was a lot harder than I imagined it would be. However, we did manage to come up with five things. It was a nice way to get to know the ladies we were seating with. I had the pleasure of meeting my Synergy Coach, who was also seated at the table.

Then, it was time for each of us to be introduced to our mentor. Our mentors stood, handed us a rose and asked if we would accept them as our mentor. Of course, I accepted. I then had the pleasure of talking with my mentor and getting to know her a little. We discussed goals, boundaries and meetings with our mentor and the other mentees. This was avery nice way to start off our relationship.

Overall, I had a great time at the Synergy Launch. I felt very welcome and important. The team that set up the event did an awesome job! I am so excited to see what will come in my relationship with my mentor! I know that God will continue to grow me and do amazing work in me!

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Earlier this month, nearly 150 women joined Pastor Colleen and her special guest, Ann Platz for an interactive time of sharing about some of the issues that are closest to the hearts of women. They began the evening with some delightful hors d’oeuvres and refreshments in the lobby. Then, after some praise and worship, Pastor Colleen and Ann began to share some of the things God had put on their hearts. Here are some of the highlights:

God has a plan and a purpose for each individual woman. That purpose was in His heart long before we were even conceived. Understanding that truth is foundational to our identity as women. Every woman is called to do things just as great as those Esther did. Yet this is often hindered by our perceptions. We need to allow God to destroy our faulty perceptions and replace them with true ones.

Learn to cultivate being a good listener. That means: look in people’s eyes; engage, be attentive, respectful and honoring. Then, when you speak, everyone will want to listen to you. Simply learning to listen well will have a tremendous impact on how you are received. It can quell hair-trigger situations and open many doors that wouldn’t open otherwise. Practice on your husband or your children (if you have them) and see the difference. This has to come from a heart that is sincere and full of honor towards others. But, that’s not really that hard to do. Once you understand your value in the eyes of the Lord, it’s so easy to see how much He loves everybody else, too. Then, out of that, you honor people in the way that you engage them.

This is missing in our society because women are not leading in this. We need to start leading in honoring others, in being gracious, to our children and our husbands, and to strangers in the line at the grocery store or in traffic. Women have tremendous influence in this world. We all have a sphere of influence. Why not decide to put on a cloak of honor for the next month and respond to everyone around you based on that? Ask God to give you a love for people in every circumstance. Consider this: Manners will often take you places that money and education will not.

Women need to embrace femininity. Femininity is the softer side of God; it is the mothering heart of God; the privileged place of the female. It’s part of God’s purpose for women. A woman who embraces femininity, who embraces her purpose, commands respect. A “purposed” woman is focused, confident, more of a listener than a talker, on mission, understands what she’s to do and where she needs to go. Esther is a great example.

In addition, Pastor Colleen and Ann addressed questions from some of the ladies in attendance about: recapturing femininity, identifying your purpose, the importance of and finding mentors, mothers being in the home versus in the marketplace, dealing with a husband’s addiction to pornography and the pitfalls of multi-tasking. Their answers were full of wisdom and insight that ministered deeply to those who asked the questions, as well as many others.
Well, that’s a brief look at the latest ChickChat. We’re sorry if you missed it, but hope you can make it next time! You won’t want to miss another one. So, be on the lookout early next year!

(Click on the thumbnails to view photo gallery of this event)