Gather to See An Elevated View
Gather To See An Elevated View
What is Gather Women?
“So we’re starting to get a picture of what it means to be human…
we’re image bearers, created to rule, to partner with God in pushing and pulling the creation project forward, to work it, to draw out the earth’s potential and unleash it for human flourishing – to cooperate with God in building a civilization where His people can thrive in His presence.”
– Garden City by John Mark Comer
This is the work of Gather Women.
Gather Women exists as a catalyst to connect, equip and champion women of Canada.
This is happening across the country through Gather connections.
This is happening in my life through Gather relationships.
Together, we are being ushered by God’s Spirit towards human flourishing.
I am riding in the plane thousands of feet above the ground considering the ways Gather Women has elevated my faith and perspectives in so many ways.
Two years ago I met Cathie Ostapchuk at a retreat hosted by Ellen Graf-Martin in Elmira, Ontario. Cathie, the lead Catalyst of Gather Women had a warm presence that made me feel welcome as we stood in line together awaiting breakfast, connecting proudly about our prairie roots. I remember thinking Cathie’s heartbeat for women to thrive across Canada was intriguing.
Since meeting Cathie two years ago, I have met countless women across the country through the Gather Women network who have inspired me to see a vast portrait of God’s work across the country.
I have heard the stories of countless diverse women with multi-faceted tales of sorrow, victory and mountain moving faith.
I have developed deep and meaningful friendships with Christian women choosing to show up in every sphere of society to participate in God’s restorative work right across the nation.
I have also gained insight into my own understanding of the unique female expression of God’s image – and I’ve grown to deeply appreciate the spaces where men and women partner to bring the kingdom of God from heaven to earth.
I have had opportunities to examine my theology, religion and world views with an open heart and brilliant theologians – and most importantly – gained clarity and confidence about my own abilities, contributions and calling.
I have gained a broader community of passionate Christ-following girls and women, from coast to coast, who will stop at nothing to know Jesus, to listen to Him, and make Him known.
My story is just one of countless – the ripples of God’s impact through Gather Women will continue through generations.
And as my flight now descends on Saskatchewan soil, bringing another “Gather experience” to an end, I am walking off my plane feeling deeply strengthened, inspired, empowered and supported for the days ahead.
I cannot express the value of this “elevated perspective” I continue to experience through the Gather Women Network – one heart connection at a time.
Gather is one of many such networks – in fact, the connections created are generating more and more similar networks. This is how a catalytic movement moves, after all. And still, there will always be more Canadian girls and women to extend the invitation of elevation to.
So may the connections expand and grow and overtake the Nation!
May the girls and women across Canada continue to be ignited by God’s love.
And ultimately, may the message of the Gospel advance.
For the Kingdom.
With gratitude.
Amen.
PS. I have loved being one of the podcast co-hosts for Gather Women this season. You can check out our final season one episode here, where we reflect on the highlights of this seasons interviews! Stay tuned for another amazing season talking with women leading in amazing ways in every sphere across our country!
