“When Wounds Grow Wings—Understanding Trauma, Steps Toward Healing, Hope, and New Strength” with speaker Sarah Riedel. The women’s day in Tübingen on July 5 was a day of encouragement with insightful reflection by Sarah Riedel on trauma, healing, and hope. In a loving atmosphere, fellowship, faith, and God’s promises became a tangible source of new strength.
This was our first time attending a Women’s Gathering—and to be honest, we went without high expectations. That made it all the more wonderful that we drove home at the end of the day feeling so grateful and fulfilled. We experienced a thoroughly successful and blessed day that we’re sure to remember for a long time to come. Even the drive there in glorious sunshine really set the right tone for the day. We were warmly welcomed into the lovingly decorated hall. A small gift lay on every chair as a memento—such a thoughtful gesture that we immediately felt welcome.
The key verse from Romans 15:13 guided us through the entire day: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Marion Knirr, Women’s Ministries leader for the Baden-Württemberg Conference, opened the event with a warm welcome. Afterward, we sang songs together, accompanied by piano and violin, as well as the beautiful voices of two singers. Right from the start, it was clear that God blessed this day.
After the welcome, Sarah Riedel introduced the seminar’s theme. First, the participants got to know one another in a very special way. Using a creative “bread scale,” each woman introduced herself and described her current mood. The choices were a “cool” croissant, a “cheerful” focaccia, an “enthusiastic” brioche, a “sad” bagel, or an “upbeat” baguette. This creative idea led to many joyful moments, helped break the ice, and quickly created an open and warm atmosphere.
In the first session, Sarah Riedel clearly explained what trauma is, what causes and what can trigger trauma, and what effects traumatic experiences have on the body, soul, and mind. What was impressive was not only her extensive expertise but also her many years of experience and her empathetic way of conveying an often difficult topic in a way that was both understandable and hopeful. Time flew by.
During the lunch break, we were treated to a truly delicious meal by the dedicated kitchen team. A heartfelt thank you for the loving preparation and wonderful hospitality! In the afternoon, we continued with the second session.
In the afternoon, the seminar continued with the second thematic block. Sarah Riedel offered many practical and helpful insights into dealing with emotional wounds and pointed out ways in which healing can take place step by step. Time and again, it became clear: Our God does not leave us alone with our wounds. He sees our distress, wants to meet us, and gives us hope and new strength.
At the end of the seminar, all the participants agreed: This day was a great gift. In addition to the valuable presentations, many were delighted by the wonderful encounters with old friends and the opportunity to get to know women from other churches. It simply felt good to experience fellowship, to sing together, to listen, and to share.
We were particularly moved by the realization that we have a wonderful, loving, and almighty God who sees us in our pain, wants to help us, and is able to help us. At the same time, we can look forward to eternity with hope—to the time when God will wipe away every tear and suffering, pain and trauma will be a thing of the past. Then such talks will no longer be necessary. “Our wounds don’t have to be the last word. Where God meets us, new hope can grow from pain, and new strength from vulnerability.”
A heartfelt thank you goes to Sarah Riedel for her knowledgeable, authentic, and empathetic presentation. We also thank Marion Knirr and her dedicated team for the excellent organization, the thoughtful planning, and the warm atmosphere of this blessed women’s gathering. We’d love to come back.