
Church Retreat
Are you searching for a way to bring the members of your church together? A retreat could be the memorable and affordable solution you’ve been looking for.
By going away as a group, you will bond, create lasting memories, and make time for deeper discussion. But how can you successfully plan an unforgettable church retreat for your local congregation?
We’re here to help. Keep reading for a full guide on how to plan the perfect retreat for your church. Let’s get started!
Start with Prayer
As with all things in life, start this undertaking by setting forth with positive intentions. You know what that means… prayer!
Pray for those who will help you along the way, pray for the loved ones who will attend the retreat with you, and pray for great weather for all to enjoy. Pray for grace, protection, and great opportunities to bond.
After all, prayer is the most powerful tool we have for success. Don’t forget to incorporate it into your retreat, every step of the way.
Map Out the Goals for Your Church Retreat
The key here is specificity. The planning phase for your retreat will make or break the experience for everyone. It’s important not to feel stressed and to keep your mind focused on all of the positive things that will come from this time away with your congregation… while still being diligent to plan ahead well.
First thing’s first, choose some options for the location of your retreat. It’s best to research possible host locations that specifically accommodate groups for conferences and retreats, like we do here at North Texas Jellystone Park™️. This will ensure that they can host a large number of people and offer a space for gathering.
Next, plan out what kind of activities you would like to offer during your time away. Are you focusing on team-building? In-depth study? Worship? Family bonding? All of the above?
Whatever your focus, make sure that it is clearly prioritized. This will make the rest of the process much simpler.
Budget Carefully
Discussing budgets within your church can be confusing. Be sure that you are crystal clear on how your church’s budgeting system works or how they would prefer you to fundraise for your church retreat.
And be sure to overestimate when calculating the expected costs for your trip. Don’t forget transportation, food, gas, the cost of the location, guest speakers, etc.
Collaborate
Don’t feel that you have to plan this unforgettable church retreat alone! Collaboration is a core value of many churches and encourages a strong, united church community. During your church’s next gathering, make an announcement to enlist happy helpers to volunteer.
Don’t Forget Special Needs
When planning this retreat, be sure to stay mindful of the special needs of others. If there are people in your church group who are vegetarian or vegan, gluten-free, or diabetic, you’ll need to plan food options for them. Is there anyone with physical or mental disabilities? Make sure that they are cared for and considered throughout as well so they too can enjoy the time.
Have Fun!
If you follow the guide above, you will put together a beautiful and team-building church retreat that will be cherished for generations. Just remember to start with prayer, to plan and budget carefully, to encourage collaboration, and to consider others’ needs.
If you have any questions or comments, or if you need any help along the way, feel free to contact us. We’d love to hear from you!
Ready for Your Next Adventure?
Plan your stay at North Texas Jellystone Park™ and experience endless fun, from family-friendly activities to relaxing cabin getaways.