Clergy Rest & Renewal Retreat Gives Clergy Space to Connect and Care for Themselves

Last week, Bishop Robin Dease and 35 clergy from across the North Georgia Conference gathered for a Clergy Rest & Renewal Retreat. This gathering was the first of this type for clergy in the conference. The retreat’s only agenda was to provide a space for clergy to rest and renew.

Participants gathered at Salem Campmeeting Campground in Covington, Georgia, which provides a sacred space away from the demands of ministry. During the 26-hour retreat, clergy responded to an invitation to participate in any part of the retreat that would bring them rest and renewal. Clergy eagerly signed up for opportunities for individual and group spiritual direction offered by spiritual directors from the conference.

Other opportunities included yoga classes, guided painting, time spent in the contemplative art room, and meditative walking the prayer labyrinth. The most popular resting place during the retreat was the front porch of the Salem Campground Hotel, where rocking chairs were always rocking and meaningful and lively conversations could be heard. The Order of Deacons, Elders, and the Fellowship of Local Pastors offered worship opportunities.    

North Georgia’s Center for Clergy Excellence sponsored and designed the retreat. The Center for Clergy Excellence is typically known as the credentialing body of the conference through its work with the Board of Ordained Ministry; however, Rev. Dr. Alice Rogers, Director of Clergy Excellence, believes that “Now is the time to expand our work as we seek to sustain and nurture the clergy in the conference."

"We have experienced a difficult few years, and we need to invest in the spiritual, physical, and mental health of our faithful clergy now more than ever,” said Alice.

Even though the time was brief, clergy commented how good it felt to set aside this time simply to rest and renew. The primary complaint was that “the retreat should have been longer!” (overheard from Bishop Dease). The next Clergy Rest & Renewal Retreat will be held from Monday, May 13, 9:30 am to Tuesday, May 14, 11:30 am at Salem Campground. Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot ASAP. CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT FOR MAY

Another date to save on clergy calendars is Tuesday, September 17, 2024, for a one-day Clergy Rest & Renewal Retreat at Glisson. Glisson is opening the camp for ALL the clergy in the conference for a time of fun, rest, and fellowship.