A Joyful Start to the Day
On a spring-like Sunday morning, around 60 women gathered at the Wolfswinkel church for this year’s Women’s Encounter Day. Over croissants, braided bread, and fresh fruit, a warm, welcoming atmosphere quickly developed—ideal for settling in, chatting, and getting to know one another.
A Warm Welcome
Evelyn Studer and Dagmar Latuski warmly welcomed the participants and introduced Dagmar Dorn, the day’s speaker. The right mood for the day was set by singing, prayer, personal life experiences, and introductory reflections.
A Journey Through the Bible
Dagmar Dorn, who serves as Women’s Ministries Director at the Division level, practically across Europe, and works part-time as a midwife, took us on an exciting journey through the Old and New Testaments. Under the theme “Courageous, Gentle & Strong—Women in the Bible,” we delved into the life stories of individual biblical women in small groups. Especially in the Old Testament, we encountered many names that piqued our curiosity: Jemima, Bithiah, Ahasah, Josheba—and many more. Who were these women? What role did they play in God’s story? Dagmar encouraged us to continue exploring these sometimes little-known names at home as well. We also took a closer look at the midwives Pua and Shifra, whose courage and fear of God continue to inspire us to this day.
Fellowship at the lunch table
After so many new experiences, a break was just what we needed. During the delicious lunch—heartfelt thanks to the kitchen staff!—we had time for conversation, laughter, and fellowship.
Women in the New Testament—Then and Now
In the afternoon, we turned our attention to the New Testament. Once again, we worked in small groups, each focusing on a specific woman. Together, we looked for parallels to our own lives. Here, too, some fascinating names emerged: Berenice, Syntyche, Eunice, Tryphosa—women we may have read about before, but hardly noticed. Another reason to read the Bible anew at home with open eyes.
Space for the Personal
The day offered not only knowledge but also time to pause and reflect. We were invited to think of people dear to us and write them a letter. We were also encouraged to ask ourselves questions—and take the answers home with us, making them our own.
A common thread through history
One central question guided us: What do women from Eve to the present day have in common? They wait. In the Old Testament, women waited for the Savior—who would give birth to him, who would care for him? And we, too, are waiting today: for the return of Jesus. A common thread that runs from the beginning to our time.
Courageous. Gentle. Strong. At the end of this multifaceted and profound day, a clear message remained: “You are courageous, gentle, and strong!” It was a women’s gathering that inspired, brought people together, and left you wanting more.