![]() ![]() Please check out the pros and cons of each before scheduling your retreat. The following retreat options vary in cost, comfort, and convenience. Even the most expensive retreats may be an option if there are scholarships available. These may not be advertised, so don’t hesitate to ask. How will this retreat be funded? Churches, denominations, private foundations, or nonprofit ministries often offer grants to help with some or all of the cost.Some provide all your meals, some just provide breakfast, and many provide no meals at all but may offer a kitchen for you to use. Others may offer a limited number of free days but charge for additional days. Are there any hidden costs? Some places may require a security deposit.In some cases you may be the only ones there. Who else will be at the location during the retreat? Some camps may have large groups of children or adults.Children may or may not be allowed, depending on the type of retreat. Some will be open to female clergy, others will not. Others may have rules about use of alcohol, sugars, or caffeine. Some retreat centers require that you agree with their theology. What are the restrictions at this retreat location? Check the statement of faith.What are the rules for this retreat experience? In order to offer free retreats without tax implications for the pastor, the IRS requires a minimum number of educational hours in the retreat.Where do I want to go on retreat? How far you can afford to travel or how far you need to go to truly get away may factor into your choices. ![]() What kind of retreat do I need? Options include: prayer retreats, silent retreats, family getaways, guided retreats, intensive counseling retreats, and extended times of sabbatical or recovery.Questions to ask before scheduling a retreat Here are a few things to keep in mind as you look for the optimal retreat experience. There are options that vary in price from free lodging and meals to expensive structured retreats. This guide is designed to help you identify what type of retreat you or your pastor needs. However, this can be a challenge for pastors who are living on a tight budget. When Jesus and his disciples were so busy they didn’t even have time to eat, he said, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while” (Mark 6:31). Wise pastors and loving churches make time for the pastor and their family to get away from the overwhelming pressures of ministry. ![]()
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