On the morning of May 31, 2025, the women of Good News Church gathered for a refreshing and uplifting time at our Ladies Latte event. This English-speaking outreach welcomed not only our church community but also coworkers, neighbors, and friends—creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere filled with new connections and meaningful conversations.
The morning began with delicious coffee, breakfast treats, fun games, and joyful fellowship that brought laughter and lightheartedness to the room. The highlight of the morning was our special guest speaker, Lily Semenyuk, who delivered a powerful message titled "Refined," based on 2 Timothy 2:20:
“Now in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for honorable use, some for dishonorable.”
Lily reminded us that God desires to use us in extraordinary ways—for honorable use—but before He can do so, we must go through a process of refinement. Like gold and silver purified in fire, we too must be refined through life’s challenges. It is in those difficult seasons, under pressure and heat, that the true contents of our hearts are revealed.
Drawing from Zechariah 13:9, Lily emphasized how God refines and tests His people:
“I will refine them like silver and test them like gold. They will call on my name and I will answer them...”
God uses refinement to grow us, not to harm us. It is essential to our spiritual transformation and maturity. If we resist God's refining work, we may end up wandering in circles—just as the Israelites did in the wilderness for 40 years—until we are ready to learn, surrender, and be shaped by Him.
Following the message, women gathered around their tables for deep conversations and personal reflection, discussing how God's refining process has impacted their own lives. It was a time of vulnerability, encouragement, and shared faith.
The morning wrapped up with a creative candle decorating craft, serving as a beautiful reminder that, once refined, we are called to shine and carry the light of Christ into the world.
We are grateful for each woman who attended and look forward to how God will continue to refine and use us for His glory.
Karina Gorash
