Under the theme “Being a Balanced Friend”, a groundbreaking pilot initiative recently brought together Seventh-day Adventist women in Austria and their friends for a weekend focused on spiritual growth, community, and holistic well-being.

Titled “Cross the Waters”, the inaugural project was designed to strengthen relationships between church members and the women in their broader circles. Participants were encouraged to invite friends, colleagues, and acquaintances, many of whom had previously attended occasional local events such as health lectures, concerts, or community breakfasts.

Held near the scenic Lake Mondsee, the weekend hosted 24 participants, including 11 friends from the community.

Holistic well-being and fellowship

Throughout the event, presentations and interactive workshops highlighted practical methods for achieving balance across physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions. Key speakers included: Dagmar Dorn, Women’s Ministries director at the Inter-European Division; Susanne Fesl, nursing and educational scientist, medically certified aromatologist; and Carola Weidinger, physiotherapist.

Together, they led sessions examining lifestyle choices, spiritual health, and the essentials of meaningful friendship.

Reflecting on the experience, Dorn shared: “The warm, heartfelt atmosphere felt like a gentle gift, drawing the participants together in a remarkably short time. Through open conversations, shared life stories, and personal experiences with God, a space emerged that was both deeply enriching and quietly transformative.”

Beyond formal presentations, the itinerary featured group activities and fellowship against the backdrop of Lake Mondsee’s natural surroundings.

Reconnecting communities

A key outcome of the "Cross the Waters" pilot initiative was its success in reconnecting with former church attendees. Several guests who had drifted away over the years reported feeling newly embraced by a warm, welcoming community.

Organizers noted that while building bridges of connection requires dedicated effort, initiatives like "Cross the Waters" offer a clear model for sustainable community outreach and spiritual fellowship across regional ministry networks.

The original article was published on the Inter-European Division Women's Ministries site.