Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

Senior Pastor's wife Retreat!

Start 2010 off right with a weekend of fun, friends, ministry and a few pleasures you've only dreamed of .... Like some spa time, a golf lesson, a cooking class, a tennis lesson, a shopping trip, or a customized workout and nutrition plan.

• Cost is $250 (Due by December 19th or $250 at the door if room is still available) this includes 2 nights/3 days double occupancy stay at the fabulous Omni Resort at Champions Gate, Banquet dinner and breakfast Friday and Saturday morning.

• Golf lessons, tennis lessons even a lesson with the Resort's Chef,spend time relaxing at the Resorts European Spa, and the exquisite pool side cabanas to relax and refresh, shopping and much more

• This is a time for fellowship and ministry for PenFlorida's Leading Ladies

• Location
Omni Resort
1500 Masters Boulevard
ChampionsGate, FL 33896

Contact the Women's Ministry Department at the District Office to reserve your spot. Time is running out and space is limited. The PenFlorida Women's Ministry makes all the arrangements for you. Just contact the office and we will handle the rest.

You can send a check made payable to PFDC and send to

PenFlorida Women Ministries
P.O. Box 24687.
Lakeland Fl 33802
or call PenFlorida Women's Ministry Department 863-683-5726 Ext 232.
Scholarships available. Please email Marsha Woolley at mwoolley@penflorida.org

Hugs,
LaDonna Jones

Christmas!

Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas!

Hugs,
LaDonna

Going without my laptop!

Hi Friends,

I realize it's been a while since I've posted as my laptop has been giving me fits, but hopefully it will be in good working order this week. It's been very difficult to go without it, but that should end soon!

Talk to you later,

LaDonna

In Every Season Section 13 Event

Today we celebrated God's goodness! We had a great day in the Lord at our Section 13
Women's Event which was held at Harvest Chapel Christian Center hosted by Pastors Brian and Paula Royer. Their hospitality was outstanding. They provided a beautiful place for us to receive and be blessed so that we may take it and spread it with others.

Thank you to all of you for your attendance and financial support this our section. It is an honor and privilege to have served as your rep. for close to 10 years now.

I was honored to have Sue Visaggio with us, as she helped with the door prizes. She is a true blessing and I admired her for her faithfulness as she has served as Girl/Missionettes Rep. in our section for close to 30 years! That is amazing! She is an inspiration to me for her dedication to our young girls.

Praise and worship was awesome! Thank you HCCF for everything!

Pastor Deanna Shrodes was amazing and shared a powerful word for us all!

Thank you again for supporting women's ministries!

Hugs,
LaDonna

Breakaway!

Rejoicing in God's goodness this past weekend! Thank you Marsha Woolley and Amy for all your hard work! Hearing so many praise reports! Thank you Lord for all you've done. To God be the Glory! We love and thank God for you!

Hugs,
LaDonna

Thank you ladies of Section 13!

Dear Ladies,

We just came away from our PenFlorida Breakaway conference at the beautiful Hyatt Regency Conference Center in Sarasota at Siesta Key. Our time away was amazing and so refreshing!

I wanted to take this opportunity to thank each of you for all your hard work in promoting the Breakaway! Because of your efforts our section had the most ladies at the conference representing section 13.

Marsha Woolley called me last Friday to tell me that I had won the grand prize! I was so surprised as I really didn't know or remember what the prize was! I was blessed with a beautiful Suite! It was huge and so very nice! This was an especially blessed and wonderful time for me as I know for all of you!

This year is the first time my husband, Keith and I in our years of ministry, that we have really struggled in so many ways. I'm not going to take the time to go through it all, but God knows. I was desperate to have some time away, because of extenuating circumstances beyond our control with my father-in-law's illness, we were unable to take a vacation, but needed to go visit him instead. In fact, my husband flew out to be with him again this weekend as he's doing poorly and not expected to make it much longer.

In September, our church held special services called "Breakthrough". On Wednesday evening, Marsha Woolley, came and ministered so beautifully to our people. I was on the piano as usual for altar ministry and she came to me and prophesied over me that God was going to give me a vacation that I and my husband could complete. She said, that God was going to give me some "softer things" to enjoy and that it would be effortless! To be honest, I though to myself that was great, but really didn't know how that would come to pass anytime soon.

Well, I'm a little slow....but it dawned on me that God was bringing this to past by allowing me to enjoy this time away and stay in a beautiful suite on the top floor with an incredible view of the water and downtown area with special little perks included!

So, thank you ladies! For your support, love, and well wishes! I don't feel I'm worthy of this, but in spite of myself He blessed me anyway and I appreciate you ladies for making this possible.

The weekend was refreshing, the worship intense! I danced all over the place! My calves are screaming today, but it was so worth it! Freedom....it was so sweet! I feel now God has given what's needed to take me through this season. God is good!

It was so good to see my sisters in the Lord and renewing friendships with ladies I've made over the years! Conferences are a great place to go and getaway!

On another note, I'd like to remind you of our section event next Saturday, November 7th with another awesome woman of God, Pastor Deanna Shrodes from Tampa. This event will begin with registration and breakfast at 9:00 am and the session will begin at 10:00 am. This will be held at Harvest Chapel Christian Center in Bradenton. Please call by next week for a count so we know how many to plan for! You may reach me at the office at 941-423-1939.

See you Saturday!

Love & Hugs,
LaDonna

Fall Breakaway Schedule

Fall Breakaway Schedule

Thursday, October 29, 2009
3 pm Hotel Check-In/Registration
7 pm Service with Marsha Woolley
7 pm Service for Daughters By Design

Friday, October 30, 2009
7 am Early morning prayer
10 am Service with Lisa Bevere
10 am Service for Daughters By Design
Noon Lunch on own
Workshops:
2 pm-4 pm “Taking Control of My Body and Liking It” Samantha Taylor
2 pm-4:30 pm Daughters By Design
4 pm-6 pm “Taking Control of My Money and Liking It” Sherry Bedford
4 pm-5 pm Senior Pastor’s Wives Tea Party – By invitation only
7 pm Service with Lisa Bevere
Purity Ceremony for Daughters By Design
Reception – Cake and Punch for all following the service
10:30 pm Movie for Daughters By Design

Saturday, October 31, 2009
7 am Early morning Prayer
9 am Service with Lisa Bevere
Daughters By Design
Noon Dismissed

Desert Song by Hillsong

Hillsong
This Is Our God
Desert Song-VERSE 1-
This is my prayer in the desert,
When all that's within me feels dry,
This is my prayer in my hunger and need,
My God is the God who provides,

-VERSE 2-
And this is my prayer in the fire,
In weakness, or trial, or pain,
There is a faith proved more worth than gold,
So refine me Lord through the flame,

-CHORUS-
I will bring praise,
I will bring praise,
No weapon formed against me shall remain,
I will rejoice, I will declare,
God is my victory and He is here,

[ Hillsong Lyrics are found on www.songlyrics.com ]
-VERSE 3-
This is my prayer in the battle,
When triumph is still on its way,
I am a conqueror and co-heir with Christ,
So firm on his promise I'll stand,

(repeat Chorus)

-REFRAIN-
All of my life, in every season,
You are still God,
I have a reason to sing,
I have a reason to worship,

(repeat Chorus)

-VERSE 4-
And this is my prayer in the harvest,
When favour and providence flow,
I know I'm filled to be emptied again,
The seed I receive I will sow

Ways to Simplify your life

I found this on a blog that I follow called Plea by Milton Dykes. This is really good and I thought we could all benefit from his entry. Check it out!

TWENTY WAYS TO SIMPLIFY

1. Eliminate ten things from your life.
2. Cut back on TV.
3. Escape to a quiet spot.
4. Set your own pace.
5. Get rid of clutter.
6. When you bring home something new, throw out something old.
7. Do only one thing at a time.
8. Say no at least once a day.
9. Enjoy the little things.
10. Take at least four breaks per day.
11. Determine what really matters.
12. Make peace with all people.
13. Tell the truth.
14. Appreciate beauty.
15. If you don't need it, don't buy it.
16. If you don't have time, don't do it.
17. Have a place for everything and put everything in its place.
18. Share your thoughts, feelings, and opinions with a friend every day.
19. Allow time to pray.
20. Thank God for what you have.

We can work on all these things, not overnight, but we can pick things and work towards them to make our lives easier.

Hugs,
LaDonna

In Every Season, Section 13 Event

Deanna Shrodes has partnered with her husband Larry of each church that they have served in their 22 of marriage and ministry together. Currently, she serves alongside him as co-pastor at Northside Assembly of God in Tampa, Florida. Deanna's passion is to invest in leaders through writing, speaking and coaching. She is an accomplished writer, musician and speaker. In addition to leading in the local church she ministers at home and abroad in conferences and churches. Her ministry has been featured in the Pentecostal Evangel, Billy Graham's Evangelistic Association's Decision Today, Religion.com, Crosswalk.com, USA Network News, the Christian Television Network, and many more. Her writings have been featured in Jill Briscoe's magazine, "Just Between Us" for ministry women, Woman's Touch, Enrichment Journal, Global Pastor's Wives Network, Women Mobilized for Ministry and Shepherdess Magazine, just to name a few. Deanna is a contributing writer to Simon & Shuster's Chocolate for a Woman's Courage, from their “Chocolate” series. These bestselling "chocolate" books of inspiration and motivation are sold everywhere, with over two million in print. She has written the books, Intimate Woman, and Above Average Woman, that have brought change to many women’s lives. The Shrodes have three children – Dustin (19), Jordan (18) and Savanna Rose (12).

Deanna will be with us on Saturday, November 7th at Harvest Chapel Christian Center in Brandenton. We hope that you will be there for this special day! Check out the previous blog entry and double click on the poster for further information.

Hugs,
LaDonna

"In Every Season Section" 13 Event

Please double click on the poster to enlarge for easy reading. Packets will be going out this week! Please ask your ladies to register for this event by November 2 to get an accurate food count. There is no charge for this event, but a love offering will be taken to cover expenses.

Our guest speaker is Pastor Deanna Shrodes from Northside Assembly in Tampa. You may check out her blog under the list of blogs I follow to the right.

This will be an exiting event!

Hugs,
LaDonna

October is Pastor Appreciation month

Here's an article from the National Women's Ministries Office for your information!

Hugs,
LaDonna


Pastor Appreciation

By Arlene Allen, Director of National Women’s Department

October is Pastor Appreciation Month. Hopefully, your church makes plans every year to honor your pastor and family. Check with your church office or deacons to see if plans are being made for this year. If they are not, be the catalyst and start a new tradition. You still have time to make it happen!

Your pastor, staff and their families are the key to your church’s future, in terms of growth, discipleship, evangelism, or social concerns. How much better could they perform and lead if they knew beyond a shadow of doubt that they and their families are loved, supported and lifted up by their congregation?

Below is a list of ways you can use to show honor. For convenience and consistency, we have used “he” and “him,” but virtually all the suggestions apply equally to women pastors.

How to Show Appreciation to Your Pastor

Let the pastor dream and be creative.
Talk to him; build a relationship of teamwork and trust.
Compliment him for timely sermons.
Invite the pastor and his wife to your home for a fellowship meal.
Purchase a gift for your pastor.
Pray for your pastor and wife by name every day.
Say to him, “I’m with you, you can count on me.”
Submit to him scripturally, according to Hebrews 13:17.
Stick with him even when you don’t understand his reasoning and approach.
Bake a cake for the pastor and his family.
Attend church regularly.
Send the pastor a humorous card to brighten his day, signed by everyone in your family.
Defend the pastor against faultfinders.
Believe with him that God desires to do new things in the church.
Show the community “love in action” by the way you provide for the pastor and support him.
Order him a special book.
Organize a pastor’s prayer partners’ ministry.
Ask friends to attend church with you.
Have confidence in the pastor’s motives and abilities.
Be willing to listen to his plans for change and growth.
Be a good follower.
Send him a fruit basket with a message of love from your family.
Help him create and champion visionary plans for church growth.
Reveal to him you are willing to submit to his leadership and to be teachable.
Don’t criticize the pastor.
Let him make mistakes; he’s human, after all.
Be a good listener; let his sermons sink deep.
Make a pan of fudge or candy for his family.
Don’t ever say, “We’ve never done it that way before.”
Send the pastor to a special conference or seminar.
Make sure he has a day off each week.
Ask the pastor, “How can I help you?”
Encourage the pastor’s wife to be her own person.
Be consistent in your witness and work in the church.
Be a partner in keeping his freezer stocked with meat and vegetables if you have a garden.
Pay your tithes consistently.
Encourage the church board to give the pastor a cost-of-living increase in salary each year.
Thank him for developing quality and excellence in ministry.
Buy into the pastor’s vision; accept ownership.
Compliment him for church progress.
Help form a pastoral concerns team to provide for the needs of the pastor and his family.
Encourage him with words and works.
Help send the pastor and his family on a once-in-a-lifetime vacation.
Give him tickets to a special event/activity.
Help the outreach of the church to intensify.
Arrange for a fall or spring housecleaning team for the pastor’s home.
Jump in and assist him on behind-the-scenes projects.
Plan a church-wide surprise birthday party for him.
Stand by him when he is in the line of fire.
Help redecorate the pastor’s office.
Prepare a meal for the pastor and his family.
Plan a church appreciation banquet for the pastor.
Refrain from saying, “that will cost too much.”
Order a pizza and send it to his home.
Honor and respect the pastor.
Embrace his focus on discipleship training.
Encourage the pastor’s children.
Feature a write-up in the local newspaper/radio about the ministry of the pastor.
Ask the mayor to proclaim a pastor appreciation day in the city.
Present the pastor with a plaque recognizing his achievements and honoring his commitment.
Support the pastor through action, affirmation, and accountability.
Hold up his hands as he leads the flock.
Listen to the pastor’s long-range goals and plans.
Assist in providing him with a membership to a health club.
Furnish him with fishing equipment and encourage him to get away from strain and stress.
Give the pastor an “I love you” gift certificate for a meal or merchandise.
Remember the birthday of his wife and children.
See that the pastor has time to be alone with God, time for his family, and personal time.
Treat the pastor’s wife to a spa experience.


Arlene Allen is an ordained minister with the Assemblies of God and director for the National Women's Department. She serves on the boards of the national Women in Ministry Task Force, Religious Alliance Against Pornography, and Global Pastors' Wives Network. She has an extensive speaking history that includes pulpit ministry, leadership training, and Women's Ministries and ministers' wives retreats.

This e-newsletter is a supplement to For Every Woman, ministry to women of the Assemblies of God.

Sit for a spell and have a cup of tea!

I love this pic. Found it in Better Homes and Gardens website.

I have an indoor room that is all frilly and has the cottage feel to it similar to this.

Can't you just see us sitting there enjoying a cup of tea and crumpets?

Hope you have a great day!

Hugs,
LaDonna

Fall Breakaway "Just Breathe" Schedule

Thursday, October 29, 2009
3pm Hotel Check-In 3pm Registration begins
7pm Service with J. Lee Grady author of, “10 Lies The Church Tells Women”
Following service - Pastor’s Wives and Women’s Ministry Leaders get-together – By Invitation Only

Friday, October 30, 2009
10am Service with Marsha Woolley, Pen Florida District Women’s Ministries Director
Noon Lunch on own 2pm-4pm

Breakout Sessions

Samantha Taylor – Pure Health Trainer/
Sherry Bedford – Living in God’s Economy Financial Advisor

7pm Service with Lisa Bevere, Keynote Speaker
Following the Service (9:30pm-10:00pm) Purity Ceremony for Daughters By Design

Saturday, October 31, 2009
9am Service with Lisa Bevere, Keynote Speaker
Noon Dismissed


Daughters By Design (ages 14-19)

Thursday
3pm Registration begins
7pm Service/Workshop (Daughters By Design Room)

Friday
10am Service with Marsha Woolley
Noon Lunch on own
2pm Workshop (Daughters By Design Room)
4:30pm Dismissed for supper, change for service & ceremony
7pm Service with Lisa Bevere
Following the Service (9:30pm-10:00pm) Purity Ceremony If desired, bring a dress or Sunday attire for ceremony
10:30pm Movie (Daughters By Design Room)

Saturday
9am Service with Lisa Bevere Following the service meet with girls to hang, swim, exchange info.

Fall Breakaway just breathe with Lisa Bevere

Dear Ladies,

I trust that you are having a great summer! The temp's have been unusually warm, so hope you've been staying cool. October will be here soon and we can enjoy nicer weather!

If you aren't aware of it by now, I wanted to bring to your attention that the Conference Hotel is full , but not to fear there are other options. The registration deadline for the early bird special of $50.00 is August 3rd. After that the price is $60.00 with a Sept. 3 deadline. Tickets at the door if available will be $70.00. Registrations are not refundable, but may be transferable.

There are rooms available at the LaQuinta.

Reservations directly with LaQuinta
1803 N Tamiami Trl
Sarasota, FL 34234
1.866.527.1498
Pen Florida Assembly of God
Confirmation # 7712GRVBPD
$69 for 4 people
Complimentary Breakfast
(1 mile/2 minutes)

There may be a few rooms left at the Hyatt Place. This is a beautiful property close by to the conference hotel.

Reservations directly with Hyatt Place
950 University Parkway
Sarasota, FL 34234
1.888.492.8847 or 1.941.554.5800
Assembly of God-Women's Dept
Code/Group # G-RAGO
$105 for 4 peopleComplimentary Breakfast
Shuttle provided Sarasota Hyatt and Hyatt Place (3.5 miles/6 minutes)

Please check at the Pen-Florida Women's Ministries page for info at: https://www.penflorida.org/406112.ihtml

If you are interested in bringing a group from your church time is of essence! So hurry and make your reservations! We're going to have a wonderful time! October is just around the corner!

Hugs,

LaDonna

***Reminder: We'll have our Fall event at Harvest Chapel Christian Center in Bradenton Saturday, November 7th with Rev. Deanna Shrodes! Check out her blog here.

"Life is a Theater--Invite Your Audience Carefully"

This has been around for awhile, but worth the read again.

Hugs,

LaDonna

Not everyone is spiritually healthy and mature enough to have a front row seat in our lives. There are some people in your life that need to be loved from a distance.

It's amazing what you can accomplish when you let go, or at least minimize your time with draining, negative, incompatible, not-going-anywhere relationships, friendships, fellowships.

Observe the relationships around you.Pay attention to: Which ones lift and which ones lean?

Which ones encourage and which ones discourage?Which ones are on a path of growth uphill and which ones are going downhill?When you leave certain people, do you feel better or feel worse?

Which ones always have drama or don't really understand, know and appreciate you and the gift that lies within you?

When you seek growth, peace of mind, love and truth, the easier it will become for you to decide who gets to sit in the front row and who should be moved to the balcony of your life.

You cannot change the people around you but you can change the people you are around.

Ask God for godly wisdom and discernment and choose wisely the people who sit in the front row of your life.

- Author Unknown

Reason, Season, Lifetime

People come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime.When you figure out which one it is, you will know what to do for each person.

When someone is in your life for a REASON,it is usually to meet a need you have expressed.They have come to assist you through a difficulty; to provide you with guidance and support; to aid you physically, emotionally or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend, and they are. They are there for the reason you need them to be.

Then, without any wrongdoing on your part or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end.Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away. Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand. What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled; their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered and now it is time to move on.

Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow or learn. They bring you an experience of peace or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy. Believe it. It is real. But only for a season.

LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons; things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person, and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life. It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant.

Thank you for being a part of my life, whether you were a reason, a season or a lifetime.

— A poem by Brian Andrew "Drew" Chalker

Weekend Wrap-up!

On Saturday we met at Church of Hope for our section 13 event "Sister 2 Sister". This is probably one of the best events we've ever had! Everything was done with excellence with Tammy at the helm of her ladies group Heart 2 Heart. Her ladies prepared a beautiful continental breakfast with tables and coffee bar set up in their church lobby.


Senior Pastor Scott and Darla Young were so gracious to host our event this weekend. The ladies of our section were so appreciative of their fine hospitality. Their church campus is beautiful and God has blessed that work tremendously in years they've pastored in Sarasota. You can see Church of Hope's steeple from Interstate 75.


Our speakers were amazing! Rev. Joy Conley from Harvest Assembly of God, Lakeland, Florida and and Rev. Tammy Young from Church of Hope . The platform had a living room feel to it with a beautiful back drop. The ladies shared about Mary and Martha. The first session was called "The tale of two sisters" with a break in between. The second session was called "Turning Martha minutes in Mary moments". They did a team teaching and it was powerful! Just a note if you missed this event or enjoyed it so much, you may purchase a copy of the DVD for $15.00.


We had fun giving away some pretty nice door prizes! Books by Phyllis Benigas, Intimate Moments with the Shepherd, Joyce Meyer, candles, gift baskets and beautiful signed prints by our own local nationally known Christian artist, Danny Hahlbohm. Check out his beautiful work here.


Thank you to all of you ladies that came and supported our event and a special thank you to staff and women's ministries of Church of Hope and Tammy Young for providing a wonderful day for all of us.


Hearts were touched and changed and the Holy Spirit ministered to many that day! It was awesome and the best time ever!


Love & Hugs,

LaDonna

Sister 2 Sister Section 13 Women's Event

Joy Conley is a mother to three young adult children. She is a pastor's wife and married to Keith Conley, pastor of Harvest Assembly of God in Lakeland, Florida. Joy has taught school in Polk County for over 25 years. One of her loves is mentoring young women 18-25. She is a section 11 Women's Ministries Rep. as well as conference speaker and teacher. In her spare time she enjoys hunting for antiques and spending time with friends and family. Joy is a pleasure to know as she spreads joy around to all those she comes in contact with.

Tammy Young is a talented businesswoman, a busy Pastor’s wife, a caring mother of 2 teenagers, and an ordained minister. She is also the energetic leader of Heart to Heart, a dynamic women’s ministry at Church of Hope that touches hundreds of ladies each month. Tammy is known as a gifted speaker who will bring joy to your heart, a smile to your face, and tears to your eyes as she inspires you to live a great life for Christ with a message of hope from her own unique perspective into God’s word.

Event: Sister 2 Sister
Where: Church of Hope, Sarasota
Date: Saturday, June 27, 2009
Time: 9:30 (breakfast)
Make your plans to attend!

God is in control!

My friend Sandy Phinazee, a co-pastor here in Florida wrote a devotion book called, "Quiet Places Where the Father Speaks". I love this book and it has ministered to many on so many occasions.

This week, I opened it up to Day 26th and this is what it said. I'm quoting from her book.

"Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come." Matthew 24:42 NIV

"You are preparing the ground, breaking ground for my deliverance to come, and it will come as you continue to seek My face and walk in obedience. "This is my church and the gates of hell will not prevail against it." Matthew 16:18. For too long the strongman has held the church and community captive, but it's time for My people to arise and take their places."

"Watchmen on the wall don't sleep! They are always alert, always watching, always ready to give report and always ready to respond." "I call the watchmen in the Spirit, but you will call them in the physical and give the command "Prepare ye the way of the Lord" Luke 3:4,

We know the enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy! He is a liar and deceiver. In these end times the enemy knows his days are numbered and he's bringing out the big guns! Praise God our Father God is bigger and more powerful!

She continues to share...."Know that I am in control. I am leading, I am preparing the way, and I will bring victory and not defeat."

..."This is the day. This is the time. Put your house in order. I am about to pour out my Spirit in an unprecedented way."
...."prepare yourself and all that I have asked you to do, and do it quickly."

Thank God for this word! Yes, the enemy will bring trials, but God is faithful and He will see you through!

Be encouraged! The best is yet to come in our churches and in our lives!

Hugs,
LaDonna

P.S. Don't forget about our Sister 2 Sister Event!

Also, please promote the Fall Breakaway with Guest speaker: Lisa Bevere

"Sister 2 Sister" Section 13 Event

Hi Ladies!
Trust you had a great Easter with family and friends. We had wonderful services yesterday celebrating our Risen Saviour! I'd like to promote our next event called "Sister 2 Sister" to be held at Church of Hope in Sarasota, Saturday, June 27th. This will be a morning event. I am thrilled to present to you our guest speakers, Joy Conley and Tammy Young. These women will be a blessing to you as they team preach! Not only are they sisters in the Lord, but good friends as well! I encourage you to save the date and make your plans to attend!

Hugs,
LaDonna

Joy Conley is a mother to three young adult children. She is a pastor's wife and married to Keith Conley, pastor of Harvest Assembly of God in Lakeland, Florida. Joy has taught school in Polk County for over 25 years. One of her loves is mentoring young women 18-25. She is a section 11 Women's Ministries Rep. as well as conference speaker and teacher. In her spare time she enjoys hunting for antiques and spending time with friends and family. Joy is a pleasure to know as she spreads joy around to all those she comes in contact with.

Tammy Young is a talented businesswoman, a busy Pastor’s wife, a caring mother of 2 teenagers, and an ordained minister. She is also the energetic leader of Heart to Heart, a dynamic women’s ministry at Church of Hope that touches hundreds of ladies each month. Tammy is known as a gifted speaker who will bring joy to your heart, a smile to your face, and tears to your eyes as she inspires you to live a great life for Christ with a message of hope from her own unique perspective into God’s word.

Event: Sister 2 Sister

Where: Church of Hope, Sarasota

Date: Saturday, June 27, 2009

Time: 9:30 (breakfast)

Make your plans to attend!

Landmarks

This year is the year of landmarks in my life. I turned 50 early this year and my husband, Keith will turn 50 in May. Yes, I am a few months older. He gets a big kick out of telling our congregation how much older I am than he! But everyone tells me that I look younger, so that brings me much satisfaction. :)

On Monday, April 6th we will be celebrating 30 years of marriage! I almost can't say it or believe it! It sounds like we've been together forever!

We looked at each other today and said, "where has the time gone?" Our girls are in their mid 20's and single. We pray for good Godly men to come into their lives, and we know that one day we'll have grandchildren.

Our marriage has been good, but like everyone we've been through those hard times. If weren't for the Lord our marriage wouldn't have survived.

There was a time that my husband walked away from the Lord and ministry. That was a trying time in our lives. Our girls were little and I was determined to take them to church and bring them up in the ways of the Lord.

Being a stay at home mom part of that time allowed me the opportunity to get in God's word and intercede for my husband and family. Keith was a miserable person during those years because he was running from the call on his life. I wanted to quit and throw in the towel, but realize God's strength and grace helped me tremendously at that point in our lives.

My husband is my best friend. We share everything. He says, I'm like Jesus because everywhere he goes I go. We live together, work together, eat and sleep together. Don't get me wrong we have our times apart, but not for long.

God has blessed me with a wonderful husband, lover, companion, and friend. He's so talented and I'm amazed at all that he does, He's a wonderful preacher and teacher speaking God's word. He sings beautifully too! We are perfectly suited for one another and are similar in many ways. Although, there are a few things I don't care to do--that is okay! I'd rather not jump out of a perfectly good plane as that is his dream to do so one day.

I'm excited and thankful to be married to the man God gave me and celebrate these 30 years together! God is faithful and we're in full-time ministry doing what He has called us to do. He's blessed us with daughters who are serving Him in ministry as well.

We pastor an awesome church with wonderful people and will be celebrating 11 years this year in North Port. The Lord has brought us through so much and there is not enough room to share it all! I give Him the glory for what He' done for us in our lives and look forward to the many years ahead together as husband and wife!

I love you Keith with all my heart and thank God for you!

Hugs,
LaDonna

"Tell me why?"

This young man can sing and this song has a great message! His name is Declan Galbraith. This video is a few years old, but what an awesome voice!

It's basically saying why can't we be friends and look out for our fellow man that is in need and hurting by giving them a helping hand.

Hope you enjoy. Just click on the title for the link.

Hugs,
LaDonna

Crossing into your Promised Land

Today I am featuring a blog that I follow by Cheryl Turnbull. It's called Mentoring Pastor's wives and Women in Ministry. There is a link to this on blogs that I follow. It's very good and speaks I believe to all us at one point or another in our lives.

Be strong and courageous as Joshua chapter one tells us. Don't be afraid to cross over into your promised land. You know, each one of us has a very different promised land. If we were all the same, life would be boring.

What is it God has called you to? Are you still standing on this side of the water just looking at the other side, dreaming? Be strong. Be courageous. Stand in awe of what God has in store for you. If it were an easy task it really would not be worth the effort. Thank God that He has given you the ability to have vision, to dream and set goals.

Ask yourself the following question:

"Am I living in my promised land, or am I settling for life as it is now?"

What is it you need to do to become more bold? Maybe you are in a place where God is telling you to sit still and learn at His feet. Some of the time that is the best place to be. To some that would be a bold move...to sit and be still. God may have you in a place where you are to soak in from others and not "do" anything right now. That is ok. He is preparing you. Believe me, I had to learn to accept that process.

To others, maybe you have sat too long and God is trying to get you to move, because you are ready. It is your time. Now get up and get going. The sky is the limit with you and God. Your imagination is the only thing that is holding you back. Cross over to the other side into your Promised Land and let God be glorified.

I would love to hear some stories of what God is doing in your life. Are you at the sitting still point, or are you crossing over? Share with us so we can learn from you.

Remember God wants us to be Intentional Women this year!

Hugs,
LaDonna

Breakfast at Dutch Heritage

Today I had the privilege of meeting with Pastor's wives and Women's Ministries Directors from Section 13. We met for Breakfast at the Dutch Heritage and had a great meal and a time of sharing with one another.

It is an honor for me to work with such awesome women of God. The support, love and cooperation we have with one another is refreshing. We all share the same vision and that is a heart for ministry and women.

What a blessing to share with these precious women! Their friendship is treasured!Those of us in pastoral ministry can only understand the same stresses, hardships and experiences that we all face.

I encouraged these ladies to love and lift each other up in those hard times, rejoice together in the good times.

Pastor Darla Young ended our time with prayer and intercession for needs and for those that were unable to be with us today.

The women in leadership from section 13 are wonderful and we are so blessed to have them in these positions "for such a time as this". God has placed them in their churches to inspire others towards Christ. They serve with excellence and a heart of love.

On another note, our section event will be on Saturday, June 27th to be hosted by Church of Hope in Sarasota. Mark it on your calendars and save the date! More information and details will be coming soon!

Also, just wanted to let you know that there will be a PenFlorida District Luncheon during District Council on Tuesday, May 5th at the Hilton, Orlando/Altamonte Springs Hotel. The ticket price is $30.00 per person. The guest speaker is Pastor Maria Khaleel. She is a powerful preacher! You may call the district office to reserve your spot by calling 863-683-5726 ext. 232. You may also go to http://www.penflorida.org and download forms to send in to reserve your spot.

I look forward to seeing you soon!

Hugs,

LaDonna

The Intentional Woman

This month at my home church we are featuring the National Assemblies of God theme, "The Intentional Woman". The national office sent packets to all the churches so that you would have the information and tools to present this to your ladies and congregation.

We've chosen to promote this theme in our March monthly meeting. You can order everything you need from (GPH) Gospel Publishing House. The posters are beautiful! Everything is color coordinated and has a "Spring" feel to it! Check out the website by clicking on "The Intentional Woman" above to order items.

I'm excited about the program and will present the drama, which by the way is very good and relevant for today's woman.

There is a message that your leadership can speak on or just build on and make it your own.

I am encouraged that our National office has presented us something that is exactly where women are today. It addresses issues and challenges that today's woman is facing. It reaches all women regardless of where they are in their lives from single to widowed and everything in between.

Use this tool to help reach more women in your churches and community. There is a bible study, and many other resources that will benefit you in ministry to women.

So, check out your packet and encourage your ladies to become "Intentional Women".

Hugs,
LaDonna

Aline's Gift

Today I would like to share with you a new endeavor Women's Ministries of Pen-Florida is taking on called "Aline's Gift".

Marsha Woolley, our Pen-Florida Women's Ministries Director will be sending out a packet with DVD and brochures to the churches regarding "Aline's Gift" soon.

Aline's Gift is in honor of Sis. Foy (Aline) Johnson, our former District Superintendent's wife for over 24 years. Sis. Johnson's hearts desire was to be a missionary, but instead she married Bro. Johnson and they had 8 children! She had her own mission field at home.

The purpose of Aline's gift is to bless our missionaries while home itinerating and help them set-up their homes with coffee makers, sheets, towels, etc. Women's Ministries will also provide finances for household appliances while on the field overseas.

This will take the place of the previous Orange Blossom Room. Maybe some of you will remember that from the past.

Aline's gift is comparable to the other ministry departments that do missions fundraising such as Speed the Light, Light for the Lost and BGMC.

I'm encouraging your Women's group to make a pledge. They are taking cash gifts only-- no longer household gifts or gift cards as done in the past. Marsha will then purchase gift cards so that the missionary families can make purchases for the things that they need. Marsha will be able to get more bang for the buck by doing this herself as Wal-Mart has agreed to give them "free money" when she buys the gift cards in bulk. What a blessing!

I've presented this to the leadership at my home church and we are pledging $1000.00 this year towards this missions fundraiser. Many of you can do this or even exceed that amount.

There will be a website for Aline's gift very soon that you can view. I will provide that information when it is up and running.

Thank you for supporting this outreach and having a heart for our missionaries as they sacrifice and give up so much to reach the lost.

We can do this together Section 13 and make a difference!

Hugs,
LaDonna

Pastor Keith's Blog - guest blogger

Publish Date: February 8, 2009 :: Author: Keith Jones

Today, I'm featuring my husband's entry on his recent blog. It encouraged me and I pray it will do the same for you.

Yes! The last year has been tough!

Alright. Last year was a tough one. We all know that. We endured a divisive presidential campaign, a mortgage crisis, rising gas prices, renewed tensions with Russia, bank failures, rising unemployment, sell offs, buy outs, meltdowns, bail outs. Not to mention a storm that literally wiped Galveston, Texas off the map.

It was a tough year spiritually as well. Moral failures and divorces among christian leaders. The trials can tend to drag us down, but trials can be a blessing when we respond biblically. There are a few things every christian should do.

PRAISE GOD. In hard times David always ran to his secret place. Through out his life, praise was always at the forefront. When difficulties closed in on David, he shut himself away and prayed, sang, shouted and danced. When you have been overwhelmed by trials, you must counteract it by declaring your faith out loud.

STAY IN THE WORD. Find your encouragement in the Word, not the daily news. Many Christians think bible study is optional. Yet when adversity comes they experience crisis because they don't have a solid foundation. The Word of God must be our foundation.

BE AN ENCOURAGER. You could be sitting next to someone in church who has abandoned all hope. One word of encouragement from you could lift them out of the pit of depression.

FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT WITH GOD'S PROMISES. The apostle Paul told Timothy to "fight the good fight" by using the word that had been spoken over him (1 Tim. 1: 18). When God gives us promises, we should use them as weapons.

Now is not the time to give up. Don't let the meltdowns discourage you. Praise God and keep believing. You are going to make it. Your best days are ahead.

Don't miss out!

I realize you've not seen any new blogs from me lately, but felt it was important to promote the "Becoming" event with Rev. Martha Tennison and Rev. Marsha Woolley. I want to encourage you to go. You won't be disappointed with these two anointed and powerful women of God. It's a real honor to sit under their ministries and I don't want to miss it for anything.

A couple of weekends ago, I had the privilege to attend a Rep's retreat in Sarasota at the Hyatt Hotel. We had a wonderful time together. It's always so good to see other ladies that are in the ministry serving like I do as Section Rep. Just the time of sharing with good friends is so uplifting and encouraging. It's also loads of fun!

Friday night was very special as Marsha shared with each one of us her heart and words from the Lord to exhort and encourage us. She really ministered to me in so many ways that are so personal I can't go into on this blog. The Lord knew exactly what I needed and when.

Many times I have felt like quitting and that I wasn't really making a difference, the words she spoke over me encouraged me and gave me the boost that was needed to press on.

This was a precious time and I was ministered to and blessed. These times together with other women in a setting like this are so important. That's why it's vital that we take advantage of these events to get away where women are seeking for more.

I encourage you....make your plans to attend "Becoming". The details are below on the previous entry. Don't miss this divine appointment. The Lord wants to speak to you through these awesome women.

Hope to see you there!

Hugs,
LaDonna

Regional Meeting February 6 -7, 2009

Dear Ladies,

Here are more details about the Regional meeting hosted by Victorious Life Church in Wesley Chapel and Marsha Woolley, Women's Ministries District Leader. There is NO charge for this event!

This meeting is a two day event starting February 6th Friday night, beginning at 7pm with guest speaker, Rev. Martha Tennison. Saturday morning will start with complimentary coffee at 9 am with our Women's Ministries Director, Marsha Woolley.

An optional luncheon will be available at noon catered by Natalie Mae Catering for $10.00. The meal will consist of drink, bread bowl and soup, salad and dessert. Anyone wishing to attend must contact the Women's Ministries department to make your reservation for lunch at 863-683-5726.

Hotels are available in the area:

Best Western $75 per night 813-345-2000 or 1-800-345-2000
Comfort Inn $119.00 per night 813-991-4600
Holiday Inn Express $133.00 per night 813-907-1379
Sleep Inn $99.00 per night 813-973-1665

These properties are anywhere from 2 - 10 minutes away from the church.

Address for location of event:

Victorious Life Church
6224 Old Pasco Road
Wesley Chapel, FL 33544
Office Phone: 813.973.2230
Office Fax: 813.973.2203

I hope to see you there for this event! You will be blessed and ministered to by these ladies.

Hugs,
LaDonna

"Becoming" - Regional Event with Guest Martha Tennison

Pen-Florida District and Victorious Life Church in Wesley Chapel are hosting our first regional event called, "Becoming" with guest ministry Martha Tennison. You will be blessed by her ministry. It is February 6-7, Friday evening beginning at 7pm and Saturday morning at 9:00 am.

More details will be coming. There is no charge for this event, but you may purchase a catered lunch on Saturday for $10.00. Please call the Pen-Florida Women's Ministries office to reserve your spot for the lunch on Saturday at 863-683-5726 xt. 232.

There are hotels in the area that are reasonable if you would like to stay overnight on Friday, but you will have to make your own hotel arrangements.

This is a new endeavor and I know that you will be blessed. Flyer's will be sent out to the churches in our section very soon for you to promote.

Save the date and make your plans to attend!

Hugs,
LaDonna

Garden Gate Tea Room

These are pics of the Garden Gate Tea Room in Mt. Dora. I wanted to share these with you so you can get a feel of how foo-foo it really is! If you are ever in the area--it's a great place to go for the ladies and girls! But husband's are welcomed too!

Love,

LaDonna

The Big One!

This weekend my sweet hubby arranged for him and I to go to Mt. Dora, Florida. It's one of my favorite spots here in Florida. It was decorated with lights for the Christmas season. When you get to the downtown area, you don't feel like you're in Florida. There are small shops of everything you could imagine. Bed and Breakfast, tea rooms, and antique shops are just a few things that Mt. Dora has to offer.

We stayed at the Lakeside Inn right across from Lake Dora. The hotel is quaint with comfortable rooms. This property is over 100 years old and has a beautiful wrap around porch with rockers to sit and enjoy the sunsets looking towards the lake.

Another place we went was the Garden Gateway Tea room. This is one place that I look forward to going when we get to Mt. Dora. It is decorated totally with the ladies in mind--it's all foo-foo. You do see men in the restaurant with their wives. My husband says, as a man you have to be confident in your manhood to go to a place like that! I thanked him over and over for treating me to lunch there yesterday! They serve a wonderful Sherry Carrot Bisque soup! I love it! It's topped with whipped topping and almonds. I've tried to duplicate it before, but have never been able to and, of course, they won't give out the recipe. It was served with a yummy chicken croissant sandwich.

For dinner we ate at the hotel's restaurant and were serenaded with live piano dinner music. I had the Queen's portion of Prime rib, with a baked potato and salad. The end of the evening we took a stroll through the park and enjoyed the Christmas lights.

A very nice weekend get-a-way to celebrate the BIG ONE, my 50th birthday!

Hugs,

LaDonna

A New Year and New You!

Happy New Year to all of you! I trust that you are looking forward to new opportunities and challenges in the Kingdom. 2008 was a tough year for many of us personally as well as in our churches, but we got through it with God's help.

I saw this on a blog that I read from time to time. Emerging Female Leadership I believe is the name of it. It is worth reading and considering....

Who are you allowing to influence you?

Everybody that passes your way isn't worth a second look...so associate with people who are adding and multiplying your life.

There are four types of people in your life...

1. people who add
2. people who subtract
3. people who multiply
4. people who divide

Associate only with people who add or multiply your life. If a person is subtracting or dividing, you need to separate from that person.

2008 has come and gone so now is the time to start evaluating those around you and get ready for 2009 by sifting those who are obstacles to your divine purpose.

This may seem harsh but God expects us to make decisions about our lives daily. So if you want it to be a divine '09 get rid of those who subtract and divide!

Love & Hugs,
LaDonna