WOMEN’S RETREAT

Friday, April 10 — Sunday, April 12, 2026

Registration is currently closed for this year.

LADIES! (high school+)

Come join us for a weekend of worship centered on learning to number our days and walk wisely in God’s perfect timing. Together, we will lean into God’s Word to discover who He says we are and how to live each day with purpose as His daughters. Enjoy a time of being refreshed and renewed by God’s Spirit as He shapes our hearts with wisdom.

Take time away from your routine at home and find some space to breathe, meet with God in a serene environment, and build friendships among the women from the Chesterton, La Porte, Valparaiso campuses and our community.

Why Should I Attend?

You will be warmly welcomed from the moment you arrive on Friday, April 10. And whether you come with a few friends or venture out on your own, you will be embraced in a fun, caring, and encouraging community of Christians who are glad you’re there.

Our aim for the weekend is simple:

  • To love on you.

  • To give you opportunities to deepen your faith and increase your love for Jesus.

  • To provide an atmosphere where you are known and included and can grow closer to your sisters in Christ. 

We will laugh and sing, and worship our Father. Take walks, have talks, be silent or silly. Learn something new about God and about yourself. Have fun (just us girls), however you define it.

Essenhaus Inn

240 U.S. 20 | Middlebury, IN 46540

The 2026 Women’s Retreat will be held at the Essenhaus Inn & Conference Center offering you an assortment of planned leisure activities as well as a wide variety of fun things to do during your free time.

Spacious guest rooms offer all the luxuries you expect while traveling. Unwind by the lobby fireplace or relax in our therapeutic whirlpool; warm rural charm and a wholesome environment are discovered around each corner. 

Please REVIEW MENU to know what will be offered over the weekend. Refrigerators will be available in every room. in case you need to bring food from home.

If any additional dietary information is required, please email the Women’s Retreat Team at lbcwomenretreat@gmail.com

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Women's Retreat Speakers

Bekah Jones
Sunday Morning session — "Glad All Our Days: The Promises of God in Times of Trouble"

Bekah Jones is a fan of grace and a work in progress. She especially loves and embraces the seasonality that comes with being a woman. After landing her post-college dream job with International Justice Mission (IJM), Bekah moved to Chicago to marry her husband, Andrew. She spent several years at home raising their children and being involved with MomCo at her church. In 2017, Bekah returned to school and began working with local nonprofits. She is passionate about generosity, the local church, and her fellow moms. After fifteen years in Kansas City, Bekah, Andrew, and their two kids are excited to now call Valparaiso — and Liberty Bible Church — home. You can find her at any local coffee shop or out on the trails with her golden retriever.

Olivia Paton
Saturday Evening session — "What On Earth Am I Doing? God's Purpose for My Present"

Olivia Paton has worn many hats in the last (almost) 50 years: Missionary Kid, Cave Guide, Cleaning Lady, Editor, Speaker, Missionary, ESL teacher, Mentor, Stage Director, Worship Leader, Writer, and currently she serves as the Director of Children’s Ministries and temporary youth group coordinator at the La Porte Campus for Liberty Bible Church. Her two favorite titles are Mom of William and Samuel, and Wife to Justin. She has been privileged to travel to 15 countries around the world and 49 states...she's hoping to complete all 50 states next summer!  Above all, she is a daughter of the King, saved by His grace.

Ruth Fortney
Saturday Morning session — "The Brevity of Life: An Eternal Perspective"

A long-time member of Liberty, Ruth met her husband Tom in the Singles group over 40 years ago. They have now been married 38 years and have two adult sons Dan and Ryan (wife Karissa). Ruth has served in many ministries and currently serves on the Valparaiso Worship Team and helps Tom host a small group in their home. Ruth spent most of her career as a Business teacher at Valparaiso High School and Morgan Township School. Recently retired from an administrator position at Purdue Northwest, she finds joy in mentoring young women and encouraging people in their faith journey. Some of her hobbies include word games, playing the piano, crafting, and camping.

LISA WHITAKER
Friday Night session— "Remembering Times Past to Gain Wisdom for the Future"

Lisa Whitaker is a servant of the Most High God. Her heart is to teach, speak, and write for Him as He leads and directs. With His guidance, she has authored a book and a couple of other collaborative publications. Lisa has been involved in Women's Ministry for over 30 years and currently serves as Women’s Director at the Chesterton Campus. She is wife to one, mother to four, and nana to five pretty wonderful people. You can follow her at lisacwhitaker.com or on her Facebook ministry page, "Hold Fast Ministries."

Breakout Sessions

We’re excited to offer three breakout sessions this year. After you register, you’ll receive sign-up details in your confirmation email. Review the descriptions below and choose the session that’s right for you—space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot once registration is complete!

Card-making with Bobbi Foster:

Join us for a fun and uplifting card-making time rooted in creativity and connection. As we create, we’ll reflect on God’s love and encouragement, crafting cards meant to bless and uplift others. No experience needed—just come as you are and enjoy a joyful time together in community.

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Prayer Through Art with Melinda Torres:

This prayer time is an invitation to engage with God in a personal and meaningful way, allowing His truth to speak to our hearts and lead us to walk freely in His love. This prayer time is unique in that it lets you express what God is showing you and allows you to connect to Him in a unique and hands-on way. No artistic skill is required — just a willingness to be present with God.

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Prayer Walk with Karna Driscoll:

This prayer walk offers a quiet space to slow down, reflect, and connect with God. Along the beautiful “Pumpkinvine Trail”, prayer prompts will guide your thoughts and prayers, inviting you to listen, respond, and spend intentional time with Him at your own pace. Come as you are and allow this time to refresh your heart. *Prayer walk is weather-permitting.

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Questions?

Please email the Women's Retreat Team at womensretreat@lbchurch.org.