Advancing Through Retreating

The AZM team recently retreated to its ministry center, Ciyanjano, for a time of renewal and refreshment. Stan and Donna Armes, missionaries for 35 years and the parents of Andrea Hilty, shared from their experience and hearts at the all-day event. While the adults met in sessions with the Armes, the team’s children enjoyed various activities throughout the day.

Because the theme of the retreat was God’s grace, all Scripture, songs, and messages fell under that umbrella. In order to cope with stress as missionaries, grace is needed. Especially interesting was a stress chart which gives point values to certain life situations. If a person’s stress level is above 300 points, there is usually a breakdown in one’s health. Several missionaries measured their lives during the sessions and came up with scores of 449 to over 500. Missionaries definitely need God’s grace!

AZM’s team is very thankful for the Armes’ traveling from South Africa to share their lives and wisdom. May the Lord bless them as they minister to others.