40th Annual Church of Christ
Ladies Lectureship Retreat
Christian Women:
Living in the
Overflow!
Romans 15:13
Our History
Celebrating decades of faith, leadership, and the women who have shaped the legacy of the Ladies Lectureship Retreat.
1985- Founding Years
The Church of Christ Ladies Lectureship-Retreat began 38 years ago at Spring Lake Church of Christ, now Country Club Drive Church of Christ in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Sister Mattie B. McIntosh proposed the retreat as an outreach of the Ladies' Bible Class under the leadership of Minister John Marshall.
She served as chair from 1986 to 1991, and Sister Winnie Jewel Wright served as co-chair.
Mattie B. McIntosh
Winnie Jewel Wright
1992- Building a Legacy
In 1991, Minister Paul L. R. Mason selected Sister Elizabeth "Betty" Mason, as chair and Sister Winnie Jewel Wright continued as co-chair. Sister Elizabeth "Betty" Mason chaired from 1992 to 2012.
The Community Project is given in her honor. The Gala and the Founder's Award honor Sister Mattie B. McIntosh. The Winnie Jewel Wright Health Fair and the Winnie Jewel Wright Scholarship are named in honor of Sister Winnie Jewel Wright.
Elizabeth "Betty" Mason
2012- Countinued Leadership
​In 2012, Minister Paul L.R. Mason selected Sister Elsie Gilliam as chair. She began serving in 2013 and continues under the leadership of Minister Chris Covington. In 2024, the Sister To Sister Award was established to honor Sister Elsie Gilliam. She has been supported by Co-Chairs Sister Debra Biddle and Sister Jeanette Moore. With the help of her Dream Team and the ladies of Country Club Drive Church of Christ, the retreat has grown from over 80 women to more than 2,000 attendees. Our prayer is that every woman will be inspired to walk in her God given purpose.
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After years of dedicated leadership, Sister Elisie Gilliam transitions from her role as Chair of the Ladies Lectureship Retreat, leaving a legacy of growth, unity, and unwavering commitment to this Sisterhood. Her leadership has helped shape and strengthen this retreat into what it is today.
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As this chapter closes, the work continues. Sister Jeanette Moore now serves as Chair of the Ladies Lectureship Retreat, carrying forward the vision with a heart for service, unity, and continued growth in Christ.
Elsie Gilliam
As the retreat continues to grow, it's leadership steps into a new chapter of faith and purpose.
Jeanette Moore
2027- A New Chapter
Sister Jeanette Moore steps into the role of Chair of the Ladies Lectureship Retreat, continuing a legacy of faith, service, and Sisterhood established over the years.
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With more than 13 years of leadership experience, including serving as Co-Chair and Acting Chair, she brings a deep understanding of the retreat's purpose and a steadfast commitment to its continued growth.
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As the retreat moves forward, her leadership is centered on unity, spiritual growth, and encouraging women to live fully in the promises of God. Under her guidance, the retreat continues to grow as a place where women are encouraged, connected, and strengthened in their faith.