By Chanel Bingham | Special to the Advertiser

A new generation of women across the globe are gathering together to discover and embrace God’s divine purpose for their lives through a unique women’s conference known as “IF:Gathering.”

The IF:Gathering movement is breaking down the barriers of Christian denominations and encouraging women to seek Christ on a deeper level through placing emphasis on relationships with one another.

This year’s theme will focus on the life of Jesus and learning to “love like Jesus loved, serve like Jesus served, pray like Jesus prayed, and pursue holiness like Jesus pursued it.”

First United Methodist Church of Clanton will host a local If:Gathering women’s conference on Feb. 5 from 6-9 p.m. and on Feb. 6 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

There will be a time of worship, communion and biblical teaching via telecast from a variety of different women speakers, authors and bloggers who follow the teachings of Jesus. There will also be time for small group discussion and prayer.

“It’s exciting to hear people talk about God,” event coordinator Katie Jowers said. “This is a great opportunity for us to get insight from one another and pray for each other.”

Host Kimberly Williams said she doesn’t want women to miss this opportunity.

“I think most women tend to put themselves last,” Williams said. “This is a beautiful opportunity to let yourself allow God to use you and put God first. You won’t regret it because there is so much good that is going to come from it.”

Registration for If:Gathering is now open, and women of all ages and dominations are invited to attend.

The conference will be held in the Helen E. Parrish Activity Center, and event hosts ask those planning to attend to register online at www.ifgathering.com to help provide an accurate count for food preparation.

Heavy snacks and refreshments will be served Friday evening, and both breakfast and lunch will be served on Saturday. There is a $1 fee at time of registration. Childcare will not be provided.

For more information about the If:Gathering conference, visit www.clantonfumc.org or call the church office at 755-0490.