The conversation centers around the church’s annual Women’s Priority Conference, a simulcast event hosted locally in Sterling while being broadcast from the Illinois Baptist State Association. Thanks to advances in technology, attendees can experience the full conference close to home without the added expense of travel, lodging, or registration fees. This marks the fifth year the church has hosted the simulcast format, which began during the COVID-19 pandemic and has continued due to its accessibility and success.
The two-day event is scheduled for Friday, April 24, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., and Saturday, April 25, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Attendees can expect a welcoming and structured experience from the moment they arrive. The Friday evening session includes check-in, introductions, and the start of the simulcast programming. Saturday continues with additional sessions, along with lunch, interactive activities, and fellowship opportunities.
This year’s theme, Beautiful Scars, focuses on growth through life’s challenges and draws inspiration from 2 Corinthians 1:4, “He comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any kind of affliction, through the comfort we ourselves receive from God”. The message encourages women to reflect on their personal experiences, support one another, and find strength in shared understanding. The event aims to create a space where attendees can connect through their individual journeys and learn to uplift others.
In addition to the teaching sessions, the conference includes lighthearted and engaging elements such as bingo and a planned craft activity. These moments are designed to foster community and provide attendees with a relaxed, enjoyable environment for building relationships.
The event is entirely free to attend, made possible through support from the Sinnissippi Baptist Association. It is open not only to members of the hosting church but also to women from surrounding congregations and the broader community.
Those interested in attending can find more information through the church’s Facebook page, website: ebcsterling.com, or by contacting Emmanuel Baptist Church directly, 815-625-0351.
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