The fifth annual Aleknagik Women’s Retreat was held Sept. 24–27 on Aleknagik Island, which is accessible only by a boat ride from the mouth of Lake Aleknagik. “God feels very close out there away from the noise and people of the town,” reported Bev Moody. “The big brown bear who swam across to the island the night after we left must have known we would not have appreciated his company, so he timed his appearance carefully.”

The retreat featured Three Angels Broadcasting Network (3ABN) staff member and author, Cheri Peters. Peters’ passion for teens has driven her to take many risks for Him as she tells kids and adults that “God is crazy about you.” Peters came early and stayed after the event in order to give her encouraging message to the youth of the Dillingham and Aleknagik area.

Upon her arrival in Dillingham, Peters was interviewed by a reporter from KDLG radio. There was a special introduction to the youth and parents of the Dillingham and Aleknagik communities. After the retreat, Peters visited both public schools and the local Adventist school with her message to avoid at-risk behaviors. Holding the attention of the students with her message did not seem difficult: At least one student exclaimed, “We know you. We have seen you on 3ABN*."

*The Dillingham church maintains a tower to rebroadcast 3ABN for reception in the Bristol Bay area.