First CC Conference a Success!

Well, we did it. We had our first singles conference in connection with National Singles Week this past Saturday at the Hilton Garden Inn in Schaumburg, Illinois. We had approximately 60 people attend, the vast majority of which were female. Guys, you missed out! And yes, it was more than sitting and taking notes :)

We had four great speakers: Pastor Lincoln Washington from Rock of Our Salvation Church (Chicago) spoke to us about the importance of having an intimate relationship with Jesus first and foremost. Wow, he is an annointed preacher! Next up was Dr. James Bedell, Cornerstone Counseling, Cary, IL who showed us what the Bible says about singleness. Very enlightening. So, just to reiterate, marriage is not the continual state of bliss that it is sometimes idealized to be. (I can attest to that.) After hearing the grim divorce rates, we were happy to see that everyone returned after the lunch break!

Cathy Conway, a licensed psychologist from Meier Clinics, helped us to identify and address the lies that the enemy tells us and society confirms. Guests turned in anonymous cards of the lies that hinder them from entering into relationships, then guests formed groups to dispel these lies by applying the truth of God's word.

Finally Carol Conway, another licensed psychologist from Meier Clinics finished up with her lively discussion of intimacy in dating and gave us practical steps on how to progress from one stage of intimacy to the next, referring to the RAM scale (I think.) We decided there is no magical formula to know if he/she is Mr/Mrs Right, but it takes a lot of time spent in all kinds of circumstances, and sometimes seeking advice from a trusted friend or relative who is not wearing those same rose-colored glasses that you are!

With extra time, Carol and Cathy were brave enough to field questions from the singles. A lively discussion ensued for approximately 20 minutes. All in all, everyone seemed pleased with the day.

A few hours later, we entertained about 28 Christian singles at a Connection Party at nearby Pompei restaurant. In a private room, we played a sort of "musical chairs meets speed dating" affording everyone an opportunity to meet and chat with everyone else in the group. This activity was followed by a nice Italian dinner buffet. We heard that the party went on long after we headed back to headquarters in Central Illinois. We received some lovely comments from our guests the next day, which is always great to hear.

What a privilege to work for you in this most personal area that is so dear to your hearts. Please continue to pray for Cache' Connections as we pray for you.

~ Linda