Retreats for Renewal

Thu, 05 May 2022 20:06:24 GMT

We run through our days—going from appointment to appointment, responsibility to responsibility, activity to activity. Harried and hurried, we disconnect with family, friends, and God.

From the moment of creation, God's intention was that we would stop on a regular basis for rest and renewal.

God also made us to yearn for relationships and community.

Hosting a weekend intergenerational retreat encourages sabbath time and deepens relationships within the whole congregation. It will offer a chance for all people of all ages to praise God, find a shared story, learn about one another, and discover the things that bind us together in Christ.

Retreats for Renewal presents 5 models of retreats and an overview for planning one. Everything is explained to help coordinate a 2- or 3-day event, including

song suggestions
biblical background
resources for welcome, crafts, and nature activities
a complete list of supplies
sample worship services
small-group session details

"By carving out a sabbath time, all participants will be able to pause in the midst of their busy lives to rest and to pay attention to their relationships with God and with one another," writes Ferguson. "A sense of being part of a community of God's people will emerge and will continue to affect the lives of all who retreated. The faith of each person and of the community as a whole will be enriched."

Find great ideas to help your congregation connect with one another.

The Retreat Leader's Manual

Thu, 05 May 2022 19:59:47 GMT

In an age when vacationers on pleasure cruises can expect to be on tightly planned and pressure-packed schedules, a restful renewal seems alien.

"I will give you rest," Jesus said (Matt. 11:28). The Bible places a strong emphasis on sabbath time. Experiencing solitude, play, and life at a slower rhythm are precious pathways that allow God to nurture our souls.

Retreats have the special focus that offer personal growth as participants are guided to look at life and the world with God in mind. Forty percent of church members and pastors polled report having a significant spiritual experience through a church retreat or camp experience. Yet, pastors are hard-pressed to tackle the details required to plan these "times away."

Ferguson and Witt have written a practical guide covering the nuts and bolts of planning the budget, picking a site and organizing Bible studies—all to make the experience meaningful for all ages. Going beyond the usual collections of suggested activities and formats, The Retreat Leader's Manual provides a solid base for faith formation in retreats. Ferguson and Witt offer a thoughtful exploration of the need and biblical precedent for spiritual retreats.

"Spiritual retreats tap into a universal human desire," write the authors. "They serve as an oasis for the soul…. The unabashed aim of faith-based retreats is helping persons seek God with their whole heart."

As one reviewer says, "If your congregation doesn't already go on retreat, this book will help you realize what you're missing. And if you already know the value of regular retreats, The Retreat Leader's Manual will help make your next retreat better than ever!"

Nancy Ferguson

Retreats for Renewal

The Retreat Leader's Manual