CHATTANOOGA — Filled with workshops, preaching, music, exhibits and more, the Joyful Women Conference by Joyful Christian Ministries is Oct. 8 and 9 at Highland Park Baptist Church.

This year, the conference theme is "Living Abundantly, Always Abounding." Women who have a leak in their joy cup can discover abundant life no matter what storms they are facing, promoters said.

Workshops include a variety of topics, from raising children and the joys of aging to overcoming loss and discovering God's will for your. Those who are feeling bogged down by the pressures of life and overwhelmed by their responsibilities are especially encouraged to attend. Designed for all women, young or old, speakers include Nell Pohney, Reba Bowman, Joy Martin and the Rice Sisters. Workshop leaders include Carol Parks, Sue Fallin, Sue Bouler, Susan Lovett and Cindy Cook.

• Speaker Nell Mohney is author of many books, including "Don't Put a Period Where God Put a Comma" and "You Can Soar Like an Eagle." A native of North Carolina and now a Chattanooga resident, Mohney is a writer and columnist with weekly articles in several national newspapers (including Chattanooga) and is best known as a seminar leader for business and professional groups.

• Speaker Reba Bowman is a teacher, speaker, and writer who has a burden for young ladies and their mothers as they deal with the influences of an ungodly culture. An inspiring motivator, her humor and wisdom add much to the Jubilee programs. She has a unique way of making Bible truths come alive.

• Speakers Joy Martin and the Rice Sisters are teachers, authors, mothers, and grandmothers who have experienced great joys as well as great sorrows. Their sessions are marked by humor, poignant stories, transparency, love of Jesus, and delight in God's Word. Since 1977 they have spoken to women around the world.

Workshop leaders include:

• Sue Fallin, a popular women’s speaker at church retreats. She is author of the book "Gathering Manna," which deals with her journey through serious illness and God’s ultimate healing. Her workshops feature practical, Biblical ideas to apply in all areas of life.
• Dr. Susan Lovett, academic dean of Tennessee Temple University. She has a wide experience as a pastor’s wife, conference speaker, and outstanding soloist. She loves to encourage women with Biblical truth, and teaches with humor, compassion, and good sense.
• Sue Bouler, wife of Pastor David Bouler. She directs the women’s ministry program at Highland Park Baptist, where she has developed a well-rounded mentoring program. She not only teaches a women’s Sunday School class, but she also teaches at Wednesday morning Bible study. She has a deep love and compassion heart for women.

Damaris Carbaugh (photo, left) will be the featured musical guest. And her depth of love and devotion for her Lord is evident through her gift of song. She reveals a true servant's heart through her beautiful voice and personality. This talented musician has been a featured soloist with the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir and can often be seen on the "Day of Discovery" television program. "The Heart of God" is the latest of her thirteen albums.

From its small beginnings in 1977, JCMI now touches the lives of women in all 50 states and 34 foreign countries. The ministry does not seek to take the place of the local church, but to assist in evangelizing and encouraging women through Bible studies, women's seminars, marriage conferences and more. Their mission is to encourage, equip and empower believers to joyful Biblical living through Christ.

Martin is the ministry's director as well as of the jubilee. She directs the Women’s Ministry program at Tennessee Temple, and speaks at women’s events and marriage conferences across the United states and overseas. (Photo, right, she continues to welcome invitations for fall and winter speaking dates. Call, below, if interested.)

Early bird registration before Sept. 8 will help guests save $5 to $10. Prices following Sept. 8 for individuals are $45, or $50 to register at the door. Teens are $25. Groups rates are available.

Price includes all main sessions, choice of workshop sessions, coffee break. The box lunch on Saturday is included if registered by Oct. 3. Register by phone at (423) 867-1776 or online at joyfulchristianministries.org. You may also write to P.O. Box 90028, Chattanooga, 37412.

RELATED LINKS:  Joyful Christian website  •  Conference  •  Damaris Carbaugh