Hello, BRN Family! It’s great to be with you!
According to the Fuller Institute, 80% of polled pastors believe the ministry has negatively affected their families. But there is help! I wanted to share about some beautiful settings where ministry couples can get away to reconnect with each other and to be refreshed in the Lord. The two retreat centers mentioned are included on a list of over 120 respite locations vetted by the Full Strength Network, a partner of the Baptist Resource Network.
Harvey Cedars Bible Conference is tucked away in a quiet spot on Long Beach Island, NJ, between the beautiful Barnegat Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Harvey Cedars is a Christian retreat center providing affordable conferences, retreats, family vacations, and other events. Summers are filled with events for families and youth, and groups and organizations of various sizes come for retreats year-round. Pastors may take advantage of personal retreats from October – May for only $100/night. (Meals may be available and included depending on present group retreats.)
If you are willing to travel, another wonderful retreat center is Abbie Lane Retreat Center in Coushatta, Louisiana (near Shreveport).
Abbie Lane exists to provide a free, quiet, comfortable space for ministers to be alone with God. It is a place designed for those seeking to renew their spirits and do business with God. The retreat is specifically meant to be used by ministers seeking spiritual renewal, proactive self-care, burnout recovery, crisis intervention, and deliverance from spiritual strongholds. Accommodation duration can be customized to fit the needs of the guest. Brief respites can be arranged for ministers that wish to utilize the space for shorter periods. Longer term sabbaticals can be arranged for anyone requiring a more intensive experience. Stays of up to three months are permitted.
Also, the Baptist Resource Network has a Guest House in Harrisburg where ministry couples can stay for a few days to refresh and have respite. This beautifully appointed home, available only to pastors and their wives, is available on a “First Come, First Serve” basis, and must be reserved in advance. Our Missions House across the street is available to ministers and their families. To learn more, contact our Help Desk at helpdesk@brnunited.org.
And just a reminder: As a member of the Full Strength Network, you have access to a full list of pre-approved respite locations. These locations love pastors and ministry leaders and many have agreed to reduced rates (or free). Be sure to do your own research, and it’s helpful to book well in advance. Members are responsible for their own booking, travel, and expenses.
The Baptist Resource Network loves our ministry leaders. We pray for your ongoing good health and vitality in the Lord. Rest helps make that possible. Let us know how we can assist you! Thank you for listening in today and God bless you!
