LWML Iowa West District Fall Retreat at Perry Lutheran Homes

Perry Lutheran Homes was honored to host the Lutheran Women in Mission (LWML) Iowa West District Fall Retreat on September 19, 2026, at Eden Acres. Centered on “Generations of Grace: Sharing Christ’s Love Across Every Generation,” the day brought women together for Bible study, song, fellowship and service.

The retreat offered a glimpse into the lives and stories that make up Perry Lutheran Homes, a Christian caring community spanning generations from 6 weeks to 106 years old. For the women whose prayers and generosity have helped this ministry grow, it was an opportunity to see the people and relationships their support touches.

Bible Study and Stories of Faith

Rev. Max Phillips led the group in Bible study and shared Perry Lutheran Homes' mission of “Serving Christ by Serving Others.” Guests also heard from LWML Iowa West District President Brenda Dryer and Vice President Jeanette Hinkeldey. A shared meal provided time for fellowship as the women spent the day learning about and participating in the ministry.

Perry Lutheran Homes staff member Jennifer Rothfus shared her journey of faith at PLH. Fellow staff member Mollie Clark told of a resident whose faith has flourished since making PLH home and who now encourages and inspires others. Through these stories, guests heard how God’s grace continues to shape lives and how faith shared by one person can strengthen another.

Deb Koelln, a former staff member at Perry Lutheran Homes and Acorns & Oaks Christian Academy and now a board member for both, shared how PLH became her family during some of life's most difficult times. She reflected on the impact of Acorns & Oaks on the Perry Lutheran Homes community and the purpose she continues to find through both ministries in retirement. Her story illustrated how opportunities to share Christ’s love continue through every season of life.

Sharing Christ's Love Through Generosity and Service

The LWML’s faithful support is also helping create more connections across generations. A recent LWML - Iowa West District grant for the Lucynt Magic Table Mobile Pro will bring residents, staff and children together to play, teach and learn. The interactive system projects games onto a tabletop and responds to participants’ touch. With staff alongside them, young and old can learn from one another and have fun together. Those shared moments offer opportunities to build friendships and help each person feel valued, whatever their age.

The women extended that spirit of Christian care beyond the campus through servant activities. Together, participants assembled 100 Birthday Blessing Bags so every Meals on Wheels client can receive a special gift on their birthday. Each bag will carry a personal reminder that someone remembered their day. More than 500 prayer crosses were also made, ready to be shared as reminders of Christ’s love and the comfort found in Him.

Closing in Praise the Thanksgiving

Perry Lutheran Homes resident Judy helped bring the retreat to a special close by leading the group in her favorite song “How Great Thou Art.” The Christ Lutheran Church choir also shared a special rendition of “Beyond All We Could Imagine,” reflecting the day’s message of Christ’s love across generations. Judy’s role in leading others in praise offered a touching reminder of the gifts residents share and how each generation can encourage another in faith.

Tours following the program gave guests a closer look at the ministry their faithful support helps sustain.

We are deeply grateful to the women of LWML - Iowa West District for sharing this day with us and for the prayers and faithful support that have helped build this ministry. Their generosity will continue to bless lives long after the retreat, as together we share Christ’s love across every generation.

“For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.” Psalm 100:5