Approximately 70 women, including a few from the greater Niles area, attended the Fourth District Women’s Missionary Society of the African Methodist Episcopal Church’s Wise and Beautiful Retreat Friday through Sunday at Camp Baber in Cassopolis.

The retreat gave women ages 50 or older the opportunity to enhance themselves physically, mentally and spiritually through a variety of activities, workshops, themed parties and prayer sessions.

The theme of the retreat was “momma’s got a brand new bag.”

“It’s an exciting opportunity for self-improvement in an atmosphere that is spirit-filled, mission-focused and full of fun,” said Mary Hawkins, one of the event organizers.

Hawkins said locals in attendance included Georgia Boggs, Niles City Councilwoman; Rev. Jerri Porter, Pastor of Conner-Mayo African Methodist Episcopal Church of Dowagiac; and Aurelia Jackson, of Cassopolis.

Women came from all over, including India, Chicago, Indiana, Canada, Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan.

Hawkins said the retreat also included a mission project where participants donated items to the following agencies:

• Franklin House for Female Parolees

• Harbor House Adult Services

• Door of Hope — Women Released from Jail,

• YWCA of North Central Indiana Domestic Violence and Safe Shelter for Domestic Violence.