Men's Retreat

From Friday evening, April 12 through Saturday afternoon, April 13, 31 of the men from our church (average attendance is about 220) attended a men's retreat at Wilderness Retreat Center in Lawson, MO.  They ate together for 3 meals, slept on twin beds and bunk beds, listened to the witness of a couple of men in our congregation and participated in small groups designed to help them know each other better. They also celebrated communion, led by our pastor, Jeff Long, together at the end.  The retreat was titled "The Rock Men's Retreat."  The emphasis was that our faith is the "rock" that stabilizes our families, that allows us to trust God in all situations, and that helps us to understand what things have eternal value.

Many of the men were moved to realign their lives with Godly principles.  They learned that most of them struggled with the same issues--from finding time for family to addictions to unhealthy lifestyls.  Our men came back refreshed, renewed, and committed to putting Christ and their families first in their lives.  Many committed to being part of accountability small groups and to regular worship attendance.  Several formed new friendships and connections with Christian brothers.  They are planning another retreat in the fall to continue to grow as men of God who love him and seek to serve him.

We found Wilderness RDC to be a great place to get away--far enough from home, but not too far to do just an overnight.  Thanks to the staff at Wilderness for their excellent care.