Over 150 senior women from across Sabah gathered at the newly rebranded Shiloh Wilderness Retreat, Sorinsim, from August 1–3 for the first-ever Golden Grace Retreat, a unique program designed specifically for retired women aged 65 and above. Themed “Flourishing in Every Season,” the three-day event focused on spiritual, social, mental, and physical empowerment.
Despite the heavy rain on the first night, spirits remained high as participants engaged in workshops and sessions led by notable speakers, including Madam Virgie Baloyo, former SSD Women’s Ministries Director; and the current SSD Women’s Ministries Director, Dr. Irelyn Gabin, MAUM WM Director Puan Faridah Lausin; Pastor Feldinand B.Sawanai, NSM President; Puan Linda Lagason, NSM Women’s Ministries Director; and Dr. Lydiarita Marajin, Director of Kota Marudu District Hospital.
Topics such as “Flourishing in Wisdom,” “Flourishing in Mission,” and “Ever Flourishing: Passing on the Legacy” encouraged participants to embrace aging with purpose and joy. Crafting activities like paint-by-numbers and even blowing soap bubbles brought smiles and childlike wonder—some women doing so for the first time in their lives.
A highlight of the weekend was the baptism of Mrs. Jupini Bongol from Radu Laut, who came to know Christ through outreach visits by local Adventist women. An offering was also collected for two women facing personal hardship, demonstrating the strong spirit of support among attendees.
The retreat concluded with overwhelming appreciation and requests to make Golden Grace an annual event. One participant shared, “This program helped me flourish like a flower—even in my retirement years.”
The Golden Grace Retreat marked a meaningful milestone for the ministry to senior women of Northern Sabah Mission, demonstrating that each season of life carries its own potential to flourish.
Reported by MAUM Women’s Ministries
9, October 2025, Thursday.