The group “In His Presence” will hold a retreat on May 11 through 12 for women who have had a cancer diagnosis and who want to strengthen their Christian faith.

Camp Pinnacle at 621 Pinnacle Rd. in New Scotland will be the site of the retreat, which will feature free time, music, testimonies, and a craft on Saturday. Canoeing is available at no charge (life jackets are supplied) and horseback riding is available for $35.

The retreat starts on Friday at 10 a.m. It includes five meals as well as s’mores on Friday night around a campfire following a hayride to view the sunset.

Speakers on Friday include Judi Merriam at 1 p.m. on the healing and redemption she found after the unexpected and tragic death of her middle child.

At 3 p.m. on Friday Susan M. Austin, M.D., will speak on activities to facilitate emotional healing within the context of God’s love.

On Saturday, at 4:30 p.m., ventriloquist Ruthie Welch will minister to the participants in an event titled Ruthie & Donnie.

The public is invited to the Saturday evening dinner in combination with the Ruthie & Donnie presentation at 4:30 p.m.

Registration fees are:  

— For two-day retreat: $130, which must be received by April 15, or $140, which must be received by April 29. The retreat is open only to women cancer survivors.

— Saturday only: $60, which includes three meals.

— Saturday 5:45 p.m. dinner only: $18, which includes Ruthie & Donnie show at 4:30 p.m.; this is open to the public.

To register, contact Charlotte Palmeri, at 518-355-1307 or at cepalmeri@gmail.com.

The group “In His Presence” also meets weekly on Thursday, from 9:30 to 11:30 am., at Hamilton Union Presbyterian Church, 2291 Western Ave, Guilderland.