Incredibly eye-opening...

Christie Smith
May 29
3 min read

As I reflect on everything that took place during the South Africa Retreat with Azmera, I see blessings all around, along with some challenging and strengthening experiences. The phrase that best describes this trip for me is “eye-opening.”

I had never been to Africa before, and while one place can’t represent an entire continent—and much of Africa is very different from Cape Town—it was a blessing to experience the culture and see what South Africa is like.

The first few days were spent adjusting to jet lag, coming together as a team, preparing for the women who would attend, and praying for what was ahead. Then 35 women arrived, which ended up being the perfect number since our meeting space could not have held any more.

It was especially neat to see how international the group was. Along with American global workers, many of the women were from Africa, as well as Poland, France, and Britain, and almost all were serving somewhere in Africa.

In my small group, there were four women besides me and my co-leader (another Coloradan). Three were African, and one was American. Interestingly, the American woman, Ruthina, works through the same organization as another woman from my church... Clare!

Because our group was small, we were able to build deeper relationships and pray for one another. Unexpectedly, one of the women from Africa was so loving to encourage me with very meaningful words. Moments like that remind me how incredible heaven will be — gathering with believers from every nation and background.

Through our group bonding and spiritual direction sessions, I heard many stories of stress, exhaustion, and hardship. Though the women came from different backgrounds, many shared a deep weariness, while still feeling strongly called to serve God and make Him known.

I’m thankful God allowed me to witness His work in their lives and encourage them through the obstacles they face. It was eye-opening because I often felt God gave me words beyond my own insight.

During our final meeting, many of the women shared how spiritually refreshed and renewed they felt. It was rewarding to see how God used the retreat for His glory. I’ve seen this same restoration on each retreat I've been on—in Thailand, Australia, Ireland, and now South Africa. I pray God continues allowing me to serve in this way.

Thank you so much for your prayers and financial support toward this trip. My heart is deeply moved by the opportunity to support women serving far from home and striving to make Christ known. Having experienced many challenges on the field myself, especially with health, I long for these women to experience God’s love and care in whatever they face.

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As I continue pursuing spiritual direction as a full-time ministry, I’d appreciate prayer for wisdom and for open doors with organizations that serve missionaries. I’m planning to attend an Entrust Equipping Women retreat this summer in Colorado Springs and possibly serve at another Azmera retreat this fall, if God allows.

Thank you again for being part of this journey with me. I’ll keep you updated on the ministry, and you’re always welcome to send prayer requests—I love praying for and encouraging others personally.

With love and care,