MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- The Christian women's group of Stonecroft Ministries, Camp Pendleton chapter, held an inspirational music concert and brunch buffet for Pendleton's military wives and active-duty women, here, Oct. 6.
The third annual, free Fall Music Concert and Luncheon was geared toward encouraging military women to become involved in the community.
"We just want to let them know that they have their community's support," said Mary Young, the military liaison with Stonecroft Ministries for Camp Pendleton. "Our goal is to connect these women to God, each other and their military community here at Camp Pendleton."
The Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa Worship Team, led by Crystal Cooper, a former member of the country band "Wildflower" and singing duo Jim and Amy White, provided a spiritual and secular music concert, followed by inspirational speakers and a brunch buffet.
"The benefits and blessings to come will make your life easier, your heart lighter and your home warmer," said Trisha Ricketts, a keynote speaker, who spoke to the audience of more than 150 military women about the importance of making connections within the community.
After hearing from guest speakers, Pacific Views Event Center provided attendees with a catered meal that allowed them time to continue indulging in table conversation, strengthen newly found friendships.
Initiating relationships and friendships can be a difficult task, and without a supporting group to help create those relations, most people struggle to connect with others, said Wendy Edwards, a military wife who had never experienced, in her 18 years of marriage, an event dedicated to empowering military women in the community.
"Connecting with others is something that I have struggled with for a long time so coming to an event with such great fellowship is encouraging and a lot of us need that," said Edwards.
Young said the objective of the event is to let the women know that they're accepted, they have a community that really cares for them and they no longer need to isolate themselves.
"This event is about coming together as a group but it's also about finding peace within yourself," said Kirsten Hunter who attended the concert and luncheon for the second consecutive year. "It helps me when I go home. It helps me share with my husband; connect with him and invite him to get involved in spiritual events with me."
For more information about Stonecroft Ministries events, visit www.stonecroft.org.