“The purpose of the second God’s Karoo Women Conference from November 5 to 6 2016 is for women to be ‘refilled’ with God. For some it might be to get back into a right relationship with Him, for another it might mean healing, for yet another it might be to restore family relationships. It is also about our command to make disciples,” says Sonja Spies, co-founder of the conference.
“This time of the year everyone is tired and this is an opportunity to come and drink, to be made full. There were many testimonies of what God had done in women’s lives since last year’s conference. So the only requirement for women to attend is to come with an expectation. God will answer them.”
The conference will again be held at the Willowmore Showgrounds and provision is being made for up to 2 500 women.
Speakers and worship leaders
Speakers at the conference are well-known singer Danie Botha and motivational speaker Lynette Beer, with Arno Ferreira and Sons leading the praise and worship.
“We did not give the speakers topics. God knows what the needs are and His Spirit will guide them on what He wants to reveal,” Spies says.
Both speakers will alternate between English and Afrikaans and the conference is not linked to a specific group or church.
Informal icebreaker session
Though the conference only starts on Saturday, there will be an informal icebreaker session on Friday evening, November 4 at 7pm by Lynette Beer to let women discover more about themselves and their spiritual lives.
And though it is a women conference, Spies says having the few men involved is not only for practical help in carrying around equipment, but is part of the healing for women — especially giving those from abusive relationships an opportunity to see another side of men. This will help them relate better to God as a father figure and to Jesus as a man.
Spies was excited about an intercession team praying for the conference this year. “Last year we had friends and family praying, but now we have an actual team to intercede. There will also be a counselling team to help women cope when they are back in their congregations,” she says.
Catering
Everyone has to provide their own meals, but free tea and coffee will be available at the Show Hall throughout the conference. However, women must bring their own mugs and teaspoons.
To help with the meals, there will be Mighty Men Food stalls, a tuck shop and special arrangements have been made with restaurants in Willowmore to stay open later.
“We have also made arrangements for ATMs, medical staff, a helicopter and security. The enemy is not happy with what we are doing, so we have to be prepared,” Spies says.
Accommodation
Women have to make their own accommodation arrangements and can contact the following persons directly:
- Guesthouses, B&B’s, camping and the school hostel – Jane Zaayman at the Willowmore Tourism Bureau 044 923 1702 or info@baviaans.co.za
- Showgrounds (bring own matress and bedding) – Amour Strydom at 044 771 1088 or 082 459 6696
- Old age home – Thea Olivier at 072 048 0542
Registration
Women should register as soon as possible for organisers to prepare enough armbands and goodie bags, but Spies says no one will be turned away. Women can also come for the day only and on Sunday they are welcome to bring their families. Registration fee is R200. Contact info@godskaroowomen.co.za or visit the website at www.godskaroowomen.co.za.
DVD
A four-minute DVD of the highlights of the 2015 conference is available on the website and can be downloaded as a marketing tool. DVD’s on the full scope of the 2016 conference or on individual teachings will be on sale after the conference.
Watch the promotional clip below: