A gathering of ministry leaders in the mountain town of Idyllwild, CA for rest and restoration for the soul.
CHALLENGE
You don’t need us to tell you that ministry has been hard. You have your own stories of difficult decisions, growing demands, and leading through uncertainty. Research may give names to the exhaustion, frustration, or lack of motivation many leaders experience, but beneath it all is a simple reality: those who spend their lives caring for others also need space to tend to their own souls. At Flourish, we believe resilient ministry requires caring for the whole leader, both personally and professionally (Our model of ministerial resilience prescribes supporting ministers in both personal and professional competencies).
SOLUTION
Perhaps one of the best things you can do for your well-being is nothing, at least nothing productive. This retreat is intentionally un-programmed, creating space to slow down, be still, and simply receive. We’ll share good meals and simple rhythms of morning and evening prayer, but the rest of the time is yours. Spiritual direction, coaching, and a few optional sessions will be available. And there’s plenty of room to wander: mountains, hiking, fresh food, comfortable beds, and a charming town nearby. Come without an agenda. Leave with a little more room in your soul.
Who: Men and women who are in ministry may register including, pastors, church planters, spouses within the Flourish San Diego ecosystem. Maximum capacity of 18-20 adults. Not equipped for children, but nursing infants are welcome.
What: Minimal programming. Some devotional or prayer time in the morning and after dinner. Bring your own book(s) to read or bring an issue to work out with the Lord. Spiritual direction available/included. Geoff and Martin will be offering coaching. Lots of hiking trails and a cute town for coffee or beverage of choice.
When: Oct 19-21, 2026. We will begin with dinner on Monday, Oct 19, and depart after lunch on Wednesday, October 21. (2 nights/ 5 meals).
Where: Hilltop Renewal Center in Idyllwild, CA.
This retreat center is relatively new with a capacity of 20 or so. Essentially two houses converted to provide comfortable double occupancy housing. We will mostly be in the Community house. Twin pillow-top mattresses. Sheets and towels provided. Fresh meals lovingly prepared. Snacks and coffee are all included. Plan for spring weather (ie: cold, and maybe some snow/ice?) Comfy accommodations.
Guide:
If you are looking for fresh ideas on how to retreat well, we recommend a copy of “Invitation to Retreat”by Ruth Haley Barton. Whether you are experienced in retreating or not, we trust this will be a great resource for you.
You might also consider the self-facilitated retreat guide developed by our friends at the Seattle School.
Our cost is running about $300 a person, but registration will be $150 thanks to our grant funding. Register as soon as you are able as space is limited.