“Here Comes the Bride,” the title of the Ladies Day Out retreat, seems to imply that it’s an event for young women who are planning their weddings. And those young women are invited to the May 2 one-day retreat for women at the Vineyard Retreat Center in Ariton, but the invitation is for all women.

“This is our fourth Ladies Day Out retreat and each year the retreats are organized by a group of friends who feel that we need a time where we can be together and share our love for Christ and our compassion for each other,” said Jane Johnson, a coordinator of the event. “As women we go through so much and, it’s such a blessing for us to be together to worship and sing and pray. It helps us heal.” Johnson said some of those who come have lost husbands and some have lost children. “Some have been through some really tough times financially and others are dealing with different kinds of stress,” she said. “And, it’s so wonderful to get together and hear the great message that Cinde Lucas brings to us through her words and songs.” Cinde Lucas will be the featured speaker at the Ladies Day Out retreat from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 2 at the Vineyard. The registration fee is $10 and includes lunch.

Lucas is as associate evangelist with the Tennessee Conference. She has served in full time ministry since 2001 and travels throughout the Southeast sharing God’s message of restoration at women’s retreats, revival services, youth events and other church functions. “Proverbs 31 describes the ultimate woman of God as being strong and operating with wisdom and excellence, Lucas said. “She is courageous, full of faith, prosperous and lacks nothing. She is the Bride of Christ and she is beautiful beyond compare. At the retreat, I will share ways that we can prepare ourselves for our heavenly Bridegroom.” Johnson said women of all ages are invited to participate in this exciting day that has been planned especially for them and about them. “Cinde’s message will touch your heart and her music is motivating, uplifting and encouraging,” she said. “We want all women to come and share this day with us.” The Vineyard Retreat Center is about five miles off U.S. Highway 231 near Ariton. Take the Rocky Head Baptist Church road just past the river bridge at the Ariton intersection and follow the signs. Lucas will also be the guest speaker at the 11a.m. service at Brundidge United Methodist Church on Sunday, May 3 and at Riverview Baptist Church in Troy at 6 p.m. Everybody is invited.