“The timing of this retreat was amazing”  “This event is exactly what my wife and I needed at this moment in our life!  Truly a great event!”  These were just two of the testimonies about the value of the ARM Minister and Spouse Retreat.  A consistent theme from testimonies from the most recent MSR was acknowledgement of the reality of just how draining ministry is.  Appreciating the safe environment created at the retreat held at the Aldersgate Renewal Center, clergy couples from all around the United States embraced the opportunity for small groups.  Through both laughter and tears, couples found freedom to be transparent and to share and to minister to one another at deep levels of the heart.  One participant shared, “I better understand the needs and pressures of my [spouse] and will be more loving and patient with my words.  Thank you so much for a weekend of love and renewal.  Jesus was very much present in this place and through the service of everyone at ARM, I felt His love for me.  It encouraged me to share that love with our church and my [spouse].”

Event coordinator Jonathan Dow reflected, “I think one of the strengths of the event is that it is both informational and formational.  While there are practical nuts and bolts offered with take-a-way principles for thriving in everyday life and ministry, there are also experiential facets of the event that allow the Holy Spirit to minister to present pain.  The event has a solid balance that will minister to both ‘thinkers’ and ‘feelers.’”  Reaffirming that perception, one participant wrote, “I was so blessed by the talks, Scriptures, music, fellowship in the small groups and at meals.  I am glad we came and I am encouraged about the United Methodist Church.  Keep up the good work!”

Perhaps it is time for your minister and spouse to attend!  The 15th MSR will take place the Tuesday through Friday immediately after Easter in 2012, April 10-14.

Are you a single clergy or unable to attend an event with your spouse?  Join us for a special Minister’s Retreat hosted at our headquarters in Goodlettsville, TN September 17-20, 2012.  Hosted on a Monday – Wednesday, the retreat will focus on “RE:” – being renewed, refueled, recalibrated, rekindled,  reignited, and redefined by the Holy Spirit.