Reality television shows would have people believing that anytime a group of women get together, they thrive on gossip, backstabbing and drama.  The L.I.F.T. Circle, which originated at the Bridgeport United Methodist Church in May, is out to change that stereotype.  In fact, when this group gets together, they encourage, praise and tend to laugh more at themselves than others.

 

The ministry, which is open to all women of faith in our community, regardless of denomination, began as a way to fellowship in an informal setting and give women an uninterrupted space in which they can share blessings and challenges faced in everyday life.  “Regardless of where we are in our walk,” said coordinator Carol Ford, “ we women need women to help us grow and feed our faith.”

 

Ford, along with Regina Miller, led the group on their second retreat on August 14-15, as they traveled to Pastor Ken and Charlea Ramsey’s home away from home near Summersville Lake.  Part of the charm of the ministry is that it is done in untraditional locations, allowing the women to truly relax and enjoy the company and conversation.

 

The weekend was filled with food, wildlife, and plenty of fun as the group enjoyed boating on the lake, roasting marshmallows, and even saw a shooting star as they relaxed atop a mountain the Ramseys call “Up Yonder.” The weekend proved to be spiritually uplifting and provided a much needed platform of fellowship for the ladies.  “We are hoping more women from the community will get involved in the ministry program,” said Ford, who can be contacted by email at bford001@ma.rr.com.