The Orchard

Damilola Makinde wraps up The Orchard Conference 2024 by bringing a stirring word about what it looks like to be God's agents in the world and the specific call on women to bring new life into every area of culture, community and life. → Stay Connected Conference 2025Tickets – theorchardwomen.com/2025Instagram –   / theorchardwomen  Website – https://theorchardwomen.com/

In this episode Rachel Hughes and Amy Hughes sit down with Dr Paula Gooder to explore the character of Lydia. Dr Paula Gooder is a writer and lecturer in Biblical Studies and her research areas focus on the writings of Paul the Apostle. She brings so much depth of understanding to this wide ranging conversation about following the call of God, what it looks like to wield power and the role of women in the first century and now.

Rachel Hughes reminds us that a great exchange happens at the cross. Sharing stories of women who have experienced freedom in exchange for their shame, Rachel encourages us to partner with Jesus in every area of our lives. TRIGGER WARNING – this talk contains discussion around infertility, baby loss, eating disorders and mental health.

Amy Hughes kicks off The Orchard Women's Conference 2024 by unpacking Isaiah 61 and asking us 'what it looks like to be anointed where we are?'. She leaves us with a challenge to follow the Spirit's leading wholeheartedly into the unknown and the adventure!

Join us in this episode to delve into the story of Tamar recorded live at Wildfires in summer 2024. What can we learn through the life of this vulnerable, widowed and desperate teenager about God's faithfulness despite challenging circumstances.

Join us in this episode to delve into the Proverbs 31 women live at HTB Focus. Amy is joined by Rachael Wooldridge and Lauren Simpson as we explore a passage that we all have struggled with! We look at how countercultural the Proverbs women was, what it means to be 'clothed' differently and how we can grab all that Jesus is offering us and live radical and passionate lives wherever and whatever He calls us to.

Join us in this episode to delve into the story of Priscilla found in the New Testament. Priscilla’s journey highlights themes of partnership, leadership, and hospitality. Her story emphasises the importance of teamwork, the value of women's contributions to ministry, and the power of hospitality in building Christian communities.

In this episode, we're joined by special guest Darrell Johnson to delve into the story of Hagar found in Genesis. Hagar’s journey highlights deep themes of struggle, compassion, and hope, offering rich insights into God's care for us. Join us as we explore the powerful lessons we can learn from Hagar and understand her lasting impact on faith and understanding.

In this episode, we are joined by special guest Dr. Paula Gooder to explore the story of Phoebe, the first deaconess mentioned in the book of Romans. Together, we discover her pivotal role in the early church, uncover her profound legacy, and learn from her leadership.

Join us as we explore the story of Leah from the Bible, her worth, identity, and the pitfalls of earthly validation. Delve into themes of deceit, longing, and exploitation in Jacob's relationships with Leah and Rachel. Discover the importance of recognizing and addressing our idols while finding strength in weakness and embracing imperfection.