Voices of Hope returns for 9th gathering
Panelists share their stories during last year’s Voices of Hope Conference, which seeks to offer hope and healing to those familiar with abuse. This year’s event will be April 4 and 5 at Dayspring Church in Millersburg.
Koher Photography
The ninth annual Voices of Hope Christian Women’s Conference is set to take place April 4 and 5 at United Dayspring Church, 4955 W. Main St., Millersburg. Designed to offer hope and healing to those familiar with abuse, the two-day conference is open to women age 18 and up.
The event will feature six speakers including Faith Ingraham, Kate Troyer, Michelle Viscuse, Phyllis Sweitzer, Rebekah Hope and Kim Griffiths. These speakers, many of whom are survivors of abuse, oppression and grief, will share their journeys of overcoming adversity. A small panel discussion also will take place, giving attendees an opportunity to hear relatable stories of resilience and hope. Recording artist Leanette Lopez will return as the worship and praise leader.
Doors will open at 3:30 p.m. on Friday with sessions running from 4:30-8 p.m. A light meal of pizza will be available. The conference will continue Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with a provided lunch. Doors will open at 8 a.m.
Women will have the opportunity to participate in three small-group breakout sessions led by trained facilitators, focusing on the following topics: Sharing Your Voice & Owning Your Story, Identifying the Lies & Unlearning Shame, and Forgiveness — What It Is and What It’s Not.
The early registration cost is $55 until March 17 or $70 after the date, with meals not guaranteed. Attendees can register online at www.VoicesofHopeGivers.com or by mail by sending their name, address, email and phone number with a check for $55, made out to Voices of Hope, 927 Ridge Road, Hinckley, OH 44233. For more information call Ella Byler at 570-337-9302.
The conference has partnered with Berlin Grande Hotel to reserve a block of rooms at a discounted rate under Voices of Hope. Reservations can be made by calling 330-403-3050 and mentioning the conference.
Voices of Hope has evolved over the years, refining its mission to create an environment where women feel safe, cared for and surrounded by the love of Jesus Christ. Founder Dena Schrock, who grew up in a Swartzentruber Amish home with 13 siblings, established the conference as a platform for women to share their stories of overcoming adversity.
“We want every (woman) to leave knowing that (she is) a precious child of God and have some tools to begin the healing process,” Schrock said.
The conference team consists of relationship coaches, trauma-informed coaches, advocates and ministry leaders, many of whom are survivors themselves. These dedicated individuals strive to create a supportive and uplifting experience for all attendees.
The conference also will feature a gift basket raffle, made possible by donors, as well as surprise giveaways throughout the weekend.
“We make room for tears, but we also take time for laughter. We break bread together. We sing, we pray and we share our stories. It’s truly a beautiful weekend of sisterhood and community,” Schrock said.
The Voices of Hope Christian Women’s Conference welcomes women from all walks of life. The event seeks to unite them under a common mission: hope and healing in Christ.
“Telling your story is the first step in healing,” Schrock said. “Your story matters. And most importantly, we are all beloved daughters of the King. That is our true identity.”
