To Go Someplace, You Have To Leave Somewhere

By Yvette Kidman

The abundant life was truly celebrated at the Devoted Hearts Conference on April 27 and 28 at Autumn Ridge Church in Rochester. About 700 women were in attendance; at least 10 of who accepted Jesus Christ as the new leader of their life!

Kathy Troccoli and Ellie Lofaro highlighted the conference with their inspiration and encouragement for women of all ages. I learned from Ellie that they specifically design their conferences as if someone was coming into their home for the first time. They particularly want to make sure that nonbelievers and even first-time conference goers feel comfortable and that they connect with them.

Over the lunch hour on Saturday, our very own Jill Swanson did an amazing job of utilizing humor as she taught simple ways to be all God wants us to be in our physical appearance.

For me personally, God knew how much I needed to laugh and how much I needed to hear from Him… and I did. I heard from God through His very own words. They used one Scripture reading after another. It was amazing how they perfectly and successfully married real-life humor, personal authenticity, and God’s Word to reach and teach us. They just let His word speak the truth. It was wild. God truly gives it as medicine to heal the heart.

I was also incredibly moved and in awe of Kathy’s unbelievable vocal chords. WOW, can she sing! Finally, the one non-Scripture piece I took away were Ellie’s words, “To go someplace, you have to leave somewhere.” This really spoke to me, and I believe it can be applied to many different areas of our lives.

It was truly a joy for me to build relationships with women from other churches as we organized this event. It was particularly wonderful to see all the women and men from Calvary who volunteered for this conference.

Please pray for God’s direction for a speaker for next year and that even more churches will want to be a part of this conference. How exceptional when the Body of Christ comes together in unity!