By Shannon Wright

If you are a woman looking to connect with other women or searching for meaningful ways to serve your community, Women of Courage of Webster Parish may be the place for you.

The latest Women of Courage event was held Tuesday, January 20, at the Minden Civic Center, drawing women from across the area for an evening of fellowship, worship, and encouragement. 

These gatherings are held monthly and are open to everyone. There is no requirement to attend a specific church or any church at all. The events are free to attend, with donations welcomed but never required, and include dinner along with worship and praise.

Each event offers something new, featuring a different speaker and worship team every time.

The speaker for the January event was Paige Salas. While many may recognize Salas from local billboards as a real estate agent, she is also a former youth pastor of ten years alongside her husband.

“I want to encourage you to do something new and to allow God to be God in your life, because He is amazing,” Salas said. “I’m believing that each lady that is here today, God wants to use you.”

Salas emphasized that everyone has different gifts and that those gifts are especially important in a small-town community. She encouraged women not to compare themselves to others, reminding them that their individual gifts are needed and valuable.

“If you don’t use your gift, then the body of Christ will be missing out on something that only you can supply,” Salas said during her message. 

She challenged attendees with a thought-provoking question: Have you done all that you can do here?

Her message focused on seasons of transition, times when God may be calling someone to do something different or to do more. While transition can feel chaotic or frightening, Salas reminded attendees that seeking God’s wisdom brings clarity. “When you pray for God’s wisdom, new things will be revealed to you,” she said.

Tiffany Brock echoed that message in a Facebook post following the event, writing, “The message was amazing! We have to step out of our comfort zones to be able to step into what God has for us. Growth and comfort can’t be in the same place!”

These gatherings are only a small part of what Women of Courage offers. Through both visible events and behind-the-scenes service, the group is making a meaningful impact throughout the community. 

The group’s offices are located at 705 Broadway in Minden, where a “Blessing Cabinet” is available outside for anyone in need. During the cold weather, the cabinet has been stocked with hand warmers, blankets, mats, and other essential items. It also regularly includes bottled water, non-perishable food items, and toiletries.

Because the ministry is local, those who choose to get involved have the opportunity to make a direct impact right here at home. There are many ways to serve.

For more information or to get involved with Women of Courage of Webster Parish, contact D McCoy at 318-453-4525. 

The next Women of Courage event will be held February 17 at the Civic Center in Springhill.