Ana was having difficulty concentrating at work. Because of family issues and the news that her younger brother had cancer, she was struggling. When a co-worker shared stories and pictures from a weekend event, Ana wished in her heart she could attend a Christian retreat.

Her co-worker told her about an upcoming Hispanic Women's retreat at Tenaya Lodge, but when Ana called for information, she heard, "I am so sorry, but we are completely booked. However, I'll call you back if there is any cancellation."

Ana believed God had a plan for her and waited. Two days before the retreat, she received a phone call telling her a space had opened up. She could go! "I can't believe how much God loves me," she says. "I learned to bring all my problems to Jesus and leave all my burdens at His feet." She is now trusting that God will answer prayers, and most of all, that He loves her so much that He gave His life to save hers.

"My great desire has been to offer a sanctuary in place and time for the Spanish-speaking women where they can ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest' as Jesus desires in Mark 6:31," shares Nohemi Escamilla, Hispanic women's ministries leader. "Each year, we emphasize tuning out the external and internal noise to hear God's voice."

Through presentations, nature, fellowship, prayer, spiritual counselors and time in the prayer and reflection room, the atmosphere was ripe for a personal encounter with God. "My passionate desire is that every woman may know that no matter what their circumstances, there is hope," explains Escamilla.

Three hundred fifty-six women attended the February retreat with 10 percent of the attendees guests of church members. The first Hispanic women's retreat was in 1995.

"It's a time that is for me and God without interruptions," one woman says.

"I am a better wife and mother. I now have my own devotional time and also do worship with my children," says another.

"Many times I bite my tongue as I remember what I learned at the retreat, and it is so helpful. The fights at home have diminished," adds a third.

Confronted with her unforgiving attitude, one woman told Escamilla, "I did not realize I was harboring hatred towards an innocent child in the family. I already asked God's forgiveness, and I am going home to make up for the wrong I've done."

Escamilla and her team of volunteers consider it a privilege to work as God's hands, feet, ears, mouths and eyes as they prepare for the annual event. "We are so greatly blessed to see how God works each year," Escamilla says. "Through the years, we all have experienced spiritual growth, and I treasure that."