Stronger Together

44  Stronger Together

Planning A Retreat: Hints & Tips

Summary

We hope that you will consider how you could offer a retreat in your community, whether a full weekend or a one-day event. We desire to resource you to host retreats for those in your circle of influence. We offer the following considerations to help you think through the process of organizing a retreat in your area.

Purpose

The primary consideration in hosting a retreat is to determine the reason you are gathering. Your purpose will affect considerations related to the theme, resources, personnel, and venue for your retreat.

Theme

Incorporate the theme into every aspect of your retreat. The worship songs, the prayer times and even the craft should all reflect the theme. When the theme permeates each part of the event, participants are more likely to internalize the message of the theme and communicate it with others.

Team

It takes a team to plan a retreat. Choose a team composed of individuals with the necessary skills and gifts that can work together to put on the retreat. You may need someone with administrative skills that can help with registration and budget details. It will also be important to establish who leads the team. This person will set the agenda and make sure all the tasks are completed. Most importantly, this team will spend time praying for the retreat and all who will attend.