Epsiode 57 - Celebrating Renew: A Decade of Faith, Community, and New Beginnings with Rachel Britton

Date: December 19, 2024 Podcast Show Notes: Interview with Rachel Britton   Story Highlight: Welcome to The Women Behind the Words! This week, Debbie is joined by returning guest Rachel Britton, an inspiring speaker, writer, and prayer advocate. In this heartfelt conversation, Rachel shares her journey as co-director of the Renew Retreat, a Christ-centered gathering for writers and speakers in the Northeast. Rachel reflects on her calling to step into leadership during a season of profound transition, following the passing of her co-director and dear friend, Lucinda Secrest McDowell, in 2023. With vulnerability, Rachel describes how God provided clarity and guidance to continue the retreat’s mission, even amidst grief and uncertainty. As Renew prepares to celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2026, Rachel discusses the importance of honoring the past while looking boldly to the future. She sheds light on Renew’s unique focus on Christ, community, craft, and celebration, which sets it apart from traditional writing conferences. This episode is a beautiful testament to God’s faithfulness and a reminder that when He calls us to new endeavors, He provides everything we need to succeed.   About the Guest (Bio): Rachel Britton is a British-born writer, speaker, and prayer advocate with a passion for helping women become confident and comfortable in their conversations with God. Through her work, Rachel equips individuals with practical tools to develop consistent prayer lives and deepen their relationship with their Heavenly Father. Rachel serves as the co-director of the Renew Retreat, a spiritual gathering for writers and speakers in the Northeast. She is also the author of several prayer-focused resources, including her upcoming book with Our Daily Bread Publishing. Rachel resides in New York City with her husband and enjoys traveling, writing, and supporting fellow creatives in their faith journeys.   Book Highlight: Rachel’s upcoming book with Our Daily Bread Publishing (set for release in 2025) offers readers practical guidance for developing a consistent and natural prayer life. Packed with insights, stories, and encouragement, this resource is designed to help individuals overcome common prayer struggles and grow closer to God.   About the Renew Retreat: The Renew Retreat is a Christ-centered spiritual retreat designed for writers and speakers to connect with God, develop their craft, and build meaningful relationships within a vibrant community. The retreat uniquely balances spiritual enrichment, creative growth, and fellowship opportunities.   Key Pillars of Renew: Christ: Keeping Jesus at the center of everything. Community: Building strong connections in a supportive and faith-filled environment. Craft: Honing writing and speaking skills with workshops and resources. Celebration: Honoring God’s work in our lives and the accomplishments of fellow attendees.   Connect with Rachel: Website: Rachel Britton Sign up for her weekly newsletter and gain access to practical prayer resources.   Contact for Renew: Visit Renew Retreat Website for details about the 2025 retreat and plans for the 10th-anniversary celebration in 2026.   Closing: This episode invites us to reflect on how God calls us to step into new seasons with faith and courage. Rachel’s story is a testament to His ability to equip and guide us as we build on the past and move toward His plans for the future.