Theme: Sisters living in God’s perfect peace: Building bridges of love, respect, and understanding while embracing God’s wholeness, harmony, and rest.

Theme Bible Verse: "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Ephesians 4:2-3

Virtual Links are still available for purchase.

Join us for a holistic restorative retreat at the Beth Eden Family Life Center in Oakland, CA. We have dynamic speakers, time for wonderful fellowship and engaging activities. We are blessed to have all meals lovingly prepared and served by Beth Eden Baptist Church's resident chef, Deacon Tommy McGill. Throughout the retreat, you will enjoy delicious, fresh, and nourishing meals crafted to keep you energized and satisfied.

Pre-Retreat Excursion:

Start your Shalom Retreat weekend with a special time of fellowship, exploration, and fun! Join us for an optional pre-retreat excursion to San Francisco via ferry.

Our journey begins as we board the ferry, enjoying stunning views of the San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the city skyline. Feel the fresh breeze and take photos with your sisters as you prepare your heart for a weekend of peace and renewal.

Once in San Francisco, you will have free time to explore, including options such as:

Visiting Pier 39, seeing the sea lions, and browsing unique shops
Exploring Fisherman’s Wharf and sampling local treats like sourdough bread or clam chowder
Taking a leisurely walk to Ghirardelli Square for chocolate tasting and gifts
Riding the historic cable cars for a classic San Francisco experience
Praying and reflecting by the bay, enjoying the beauty of God’s creation

This excursion is a wonderful opportunity to connect with other women before the retreat begins, make new friends, and experience the joy of travel and sisterhood.

Note: This pre-retreat activity is optional. Ferry tickets and personal purchases are the responsibility of each participant.

Come ready for adventure, fellowship, and memorable moments to set the tone for your Shalom Retreat!

Hotels

Speakers:

Rev. Kathryn Choy-Wong

Rev. Kathryn Choy-Wong (Katie) is a consultant, trainer and writer in intercultural ministries. Since 2003, Katie is a co-founder and senior trainer of the former i-Relate Institute, an Intercultural Leadership Institute, which trains pastors, lay leaders and churches in working interculturally. She has been a consultant for American Baptist churches and organizations, as well as United Methodist and local Bay Area churches.

Katie is currently the Chair of the Board of Trustees for Berkeley School of Theology and chair of the Ordination Committee for the American Baptist Churches of the Central Pacific Coast Region of ABCUSA. In 2023, Katie was awarded the Cora and John Sparrow President’s Award of the American Baptist Churches USA Biennial Mission Summit in Puerto Rico. Katie is a graduate of San Francisco State University with a BA in journalism and earned her MDiv from the American Baptist Seminary of the West in Berkeley.

Rev. Lana Rice, M.Div.

Rev. Lana Rice, M.Div.

A dedicated facilitator and leader, Reverend Rice is a mental health professional who is dedicated to eliminating health disparities and improving the wellness of marginalized communities. A daughter of Allen Temple Baptist Church, Reverend Rice uses her voice to inspire, to encourage, to educate, and to spread compassion and understanding. Rev. Rice earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville and her Master of Divinity at American Baptist Seminary of the West in Berkeley, CA.

Rev. Rice currently serves as a facilitator for new members' classes in the new members ministry and leads the baptism ceremony when ATBC has baptism candidates. She also serves in the prayer ministry and recently participated in Theological Thursday Live - Prayers of Reconciliation and Restoration: Praying in Perilous Times.

Workshops:

AB GIRLS Praise Dance

Join us for our AB GIRLS Liturgical and Praise Dance Workshop, where girls will learn to express their love for God through the beauty of movement and dance. This special workshop is divided into two sessions to meet each age group’s needs:

Session 1: Ages 5-12
In this session, younger girls will be introduced to the basics of liturgical and praise dance, learning simple yet powerful movements to worship music. They will explore how dance can be a prayer and an offering to God, building confidence while having fun in a supportive environment.

Session 2: Ages 13-17
This session will go deeper into choreography, technique, and expression for teen girls, equipping them to minister effectively through dance. They will also discuss the biblical foundation of dance in worship, discovering how their gifts can glorify God and bless His people.

Faith, Government and God's Assignment

Showing Up for Such a Time as This

*How does your faith show up with how you handle the government?
*Am I showing up as the person God wants me to be?
*Women in the bible who shaped the process, appealing to a king, being a midwife, immediate impacts in your community

“Healing in God’s Presence" - Grief Workshop
Grief is a journey that each of us will walk at some point in life, whether grieving the loss of a loved one, a relationship, health, or a season that has passed. This workshop offers a compassionate, sacred space for women and girls to acknowledge their grief, honor their feelings, and begin or continue the healing process surrounded by sisters in Christ.

Through guided reflection, prayer, scripture meditation, and sharing circles (for those who wish to share), participants will explore healthy ways to process grief and invite God’s comforting presence into their sorrow. Together, we will learn how to carry grief with hope, recognizing that mourning is not a sign of weakness but an expression of love and loss.

Key Focus Areas:

Understanding the stages and expressions of grief
Biblical foundations for comfort and hope in times of mourning
Guided journaling and prayer practices for healing
Gentle group discussion and support

Mindfulness Moments with Miraz:

Discover simple mindfulness practices you can readily incorporate into your day to foster self-awareness, reduce stress and anxiety, improve focus and promote healthier habits in your life.

Al descubrir prácticas simples de mindfulness y aplicarlas diariamente ayudará a reducir tu estrés y la ansiedad. Además, te ayudará a mejorar la concentración y promoverá mejores hábitos en tu vida.

Se ofrece en español. En la secunda opcion para talleres, se puede eleigir en español.

Young Adult Women (YAW) (ages 18-30) - Navigating Relationships:

Part 1: Friendships
Explore what it means to build and maintain meaningful, supportive, and God-honoring friendships. We will discuss:

* Choosing friends who encourage your walk with God
* Setting healthy boundaries
* Navigating conflict with grace and forgiveness
* Being the kind of friend God calls us to be

Part 2: Romantic Relationships
In this section, we will examine romantic relationships through a faith lens, discussing:

* Understanding God’s design for love and partnership
* Dating with purpose and spiritual discernment
* Recognizing healthy versus unhealthy relationship patterns
* Preparing your heart for the love God desires for you

Women in Ministry: Deconstructing Power and Isms in the Church and Society

This powerful workshop is designed especially for women ministers, clergy, and those called to spiritual leadership. Join us as we welcome Rev. Dr. Christine Smith, renowned preacher, pastor, and author. Based upon her recent book of the same title, in this seminar, the presenter offers participants the opportunity to consider current-day methods used by some leaders (both in the Church and societal structures) to perpetuate oppression, marginalization, and disenfranchisement of women, Black and Brown people, and the poor in America. Participants will be challenged to take a fresh look at how false piety, modern-day politics, misinterpretations of scripture, and greed, converge to form formidable barriers and glass cliffs for specific groups of people.

During this transformative session, Rev. Dr. Smith will:

* Share insights from her groundbreaking book on navigating the challenges and opportunities of ministry as a woman
* Discuss practical strategies for leadership, preaching, and pastoral care in diverse contexts
* Offer wisdom on building resilience, confidence, and spiritual health while serving God’s people
* Create a space for open dialogue, questions, and encouragement among sisters in ministry

Whether you are a seasoned pastor, a ministry leader, or discerning your call, this workshop will equip and inspire you to rise beyond barriers and continue walking boldly in your purpose.

Activities:

Playdate with Jesus: Joyful Movement & Fellowship

Come and experience pure joy at our Playdate with Jesus Workshop, where faith, fun, and fellowship come together in playful harmony! This workshop is designed to remind us that God delights in our joy and childlike wonder, and that play is a powerful form of worship, rest, and connection.

Enjoy a variety of activities, including:

Hopscotch & Jump Rope – rediscover the fun of playground games
Hula Hoops & 4 Square – move, laugh, and challenge yourself
Personality Bingo & Cards – connect and learn about each other in fun new ways
UNO – bring your competitive spirit with love and laughter
Popcorn Machine – enjoy tasty treats as you play
And more surprises!

This workshop is not just for kids – it’s for every woman and girl ready to embrace freedom, laughter, and fellowship. As Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me…for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:14). In this session, we will reflect on how embracing play renews our spirit, builds community, and restores our joy in the Lord.

Come dressed comfortably, ready to jump, laugh, snack, and praise God through play!

Creativity for the Soul (Arts & Crafts):

Join us for a time of enjoyment creating a vision board or creating a picture frame. Enjoy fun and fellowship as we come together for fun.

Step into our Arts & Crafts Workshop, where creativity flows freely and your spirit finds rest and joy. This special workshop offers a variety of craft activities, including:

* Creating a Vision Board
* Crafting Paper Flowers
* Creating a Photo Frame
* Praise Dance Flags
* Painting and coloring
* DIY home décor crafts
* Quilt Square Creation

Prayer Room:

A Sacred Space for Reflection and Renewal

Throughout the duration of our Shalom Retreat, a dedicated Prayer Room will be open and available for all participants.

This sacred space is designed for you to:

* Pray and seek God’s presence
* Meditate on His Word and goodness
* Journal your reflections, prayers, and revelations
* Complete prayer cards for yourself or others
* Simply sit quietly and rest in the peace of God

All are welcome to enter at any time to find stillness, renewal, and spiritual refreshment away from the busyness of the day. Whether you come for a moment or linger longer, may this Prayer Room be a place where you encounter God’s love, wisdom, and peace in a deep and personal way.

Come as you are, and let His presence restore your soul.

Special Limited Offer: Massage

Ministry of Touch: Chair Massages by NHI Student Volunteers

Experience rest and renewal through our Ministry of Touch, offering relaxing chair massages provided by talented student volunteers from the National Holistic Institute (NHI).

These chair massages are designed to:

* Relieve tension in your neck, shoulders, and back
* Promote relaxation and stress relief
* Restore a sense of peace and balance to your body and mind

Our NHI student volunteers are trained in professional massage techniques and are offering their services as part of their holistic health education and community care commitment. This is a beautiful opportunity to receive the healing gift of touch in a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment.

Please note:

* Spaces are limited, and sign-ups will be taken at the registration table on a first come, first served basis.
* Tips are welcome and appreciated as a way to bless these students for their time and care.

Come ready to pause, breathe deeply, and allow God’s peace to flow through this ministry of healing touch.

Sunday Bible Class

Rev. Hilda J. Smith

Rev. Hilda J. Smith, is a licensed ordained minister in the gospel with a passion for teaching God’s Word. She earned a Master of Divinity degree from American Baptist Seminary of the West. With a compassionate heart and a clear teaching style, Rev. Smith brings both theological depth and practical insight to her classes. Her ministry is rooted in truth, guided by grace, and committed to helping others grow in their relationship with Christ. Whether you’re new to Bible study or seeking a deeper walk with God, you’ll find her classes welcoming, inspiring, and spiritually enriching.

Rev. Hilda states she is a proud sibling among twelve, a mother of eight, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. Yet above all titles, she gives thanks to God for being a woman of God. Her caring spirit embraces all—regardless of race, creed, color, or sexual orientation—because she firmly believes that God calls us to love all. As she often says: “We can’t fix anything—not even ourselves—but God can. Keep the faith, don’t stop believing, and just show up for each other.”

Offsite Housing at Local Hotels:
Individual conferees from outside the area are responsible for making their own housing arrangements. Please note reservations must be made by September 5, 2025. Please notify us as we will be providing shuttle service from the hotel to the church. Here are hotels in the area:

Sonesta Emeryville

Sonesta Emeryville – San Francisco Bay Bridge offers an ideal Bay Bridge location within easy reach of the most popular business and leisure destinations. You'll stay close to Fox Theater, Paramount Theater, the University of California, Berkeley, and more. Embrace ultimate comfort in our contemporary guest rooms and suites overlooking the stunning San Francisco Bay.

https://www.sonesta.com/sonesta-hotels-resorts

Hyatt House Emeryville/San Francisco Bay Area

Hyatt House Emeryville/San Francisco Bay Area Exterior

Hyatt House Emeryville / San Francisco Bay Area
5800 Shellmound Street
Emeryville, CA 94608

https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/group-booking/OAKXE/G-ABWM

To phone in your reservation, call 510 601 5880 and use the code G-ABWM for your discounted rate.

Shalom Retreat

By American Baptist Women's Ministries

Shalom Retreat

Sisters living in God’s perfect peace: Building bridges of love, respect, and understanding while embracing God’s wholeness, harmony, and rest.