13 March 2026 | Zagreb, Croatia [Svjetlana Veble with tedNEWS]
Around 80 women gathered in Zagreb, Croatia, on 8 March for an event titled Free in Christ – Pleasing Others or Living for Them?, organised by the Adriatic Union Conference (AUC) Women’s Ministries department. Held on International Women’s Day, the seminar explored how Christian women can serve others while remaining grounded in their identity in Christ and maintaining healthy personal boundaries.
Following the warm welcome from Pastor Zlatko Musija, AUC President, Pastor Dragana Kovačević, from Kotor, Montenegro, presented the first devotional message, reflecting on the biblical account of Mary and Martha. She emphasised that while both women were engaged in meaningful activity, true fulfilment comes from placing Christ at the centre of service. She noted that diligence, rooted in a relationship with Christ, leads to joy rather than frustration.
The second presentation, titled When Does ‘Yes’ Become ‘No’?, was delivered by Pastor Ivana Šadek. She addressed the challenge of excessive people-pleasing and highlighted how constantly prioritising others can create imbalance in our family life and personal relationships. She encouraged participants to reflect on when it is necessary to set boundaries.
Rafaela Juravić, a third-year theology student, built on the previous presentation by sharing a biblical reflection on whether pleasing others is always appropriate. Drawing on examples from Scripture, she showed that such decisions can sometimes come at personal cost, while at other times they serve a greater purpose in supporting them.
Following a shared meal and time for fellowship and meeting new people, attendees then took part in practical workshops. One workshop, Resting in Freedom, led by Chanel Hadžiefendić, was inspired by Galatians 5:1 and invited participants to reflect on spiritual freedom through a creative activity, designing Scripture cards. Another, Life Without a Mask, encouraged participants to consider the different roles they take on in daily life. Through discussion and a symbolic mask-making activity, the session invited honest reflection on authenticity and the pressures of meeting expectations.
The day concluded with a message by Pastor Ana Džuver titled What Is the Cost of Pleasing Others?. She spoke about the importance of establishing healthy boundaries and preserving the God-given individuality and gifts He has given to each person. The day closed with a passage from Song of Songs 6:10, offering a fitting reflection on identity and purpose in Christ.
Organisers emphasised that a woman who is free in Christ continues to grow spiritually, develops her abilities, and serves others without losing her sense of identity or calling.
[Photos: Courtesy of the Women’s Ministry Department, AUC]
The original version of this article was posted in Croatian on the Croatian Conference website.
