Montreat Conference Center announces fall ‘Discovering Renewal’ retreat

On Oct. 13-16, Montreat Conference Center will host a "Discovering Renewal" retreat, a four-day spiritual and recreational experience designed to provide rest and renewal for pastors, church leaders and those seeking respite, including volunteers engaged in disaster recovery work.

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The retreat is themed around Jesus' invitation in Matthew 11:28 — "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" — and addresses the epidemic of burnout among religious leaders and disaster recovery workers. In a culture that values relentless hard work over rest, the event offers participants an opportunity to discover renewal through intentional Sabbath practices and creative activities.

"We often preach about the importance of Sabbath without taking our own advice," notes Lynne Keel, director of programs at Montreat Conference Center. "Often, what we need is to take time to breathe, to engage our senses, to use neglected literal and figurative muscles so that we might discover the renewal Sabbath offers."

Comprehensive program features

The fall Discovering Renewal retreat combines spiritual nourishment, practical education, and recreational activities designed to foster personal growth, creativity and connection with nature. The program includes:

• Daily morning devotionals
• Educational sessions on building spiritual resilience
• Peer networking opportunities for shared learning and support
• Recreational tracks including yoga, hiking, fly fishing and art activities
• All-inclusive accommodations and meals at the beautiful Montreat Conference Center

Devotional Leadership

The Rev. Paul Roberts, President of Johnson C. Smith Theological Seminary, will lead the daily morning devotionals throughout the retreat.

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 With more than 30 years of ministry experience, Roberts brings a deep spiritual grounding and a touch of mysticism to his preaching, teaching, and leadership.

Special focus on disaster recovery workers

One of the retreat's unique offerings includes a special "resiliency" track led by Presbyterian Disaster Assistance. The track was created specifically for pastors, church leaders and volunteers from all denominations who have been supporting congregations in areas affected by hurricanes, floods and other disasters. This track recognizes the particular toll that long-term disaster recovery work takes on those who serve alongside affected communities.

Setting and accessibility

Located in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Montreat Conference Center provides an ideal setting for rest and renewal. The retreat offers various themed experiences that participants can choose from based on their interests and needs, ensuring that each attendee can find their path to renewal.

The event emphasizes that renewal can be found "in the most common of places," encouraging participants to take the practices and insights gained during the retreat into their daily lives and ministries.

Registration information

For more information about the Fall Discovering Renewal retreat, including registration details, dates, and accommodations, click here or contact Montreat Conference Center directly at 828-669-2911.

Those interested in receiving alerts about leadership announcements, registration deadlines, and other updates about the retreat can sign up for email notifications through the conference center's website.

About Montreat Conference Center

Montreat Conference Center, located in Montreat, North Carolina, has been serving the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and the broader Christian community for decades. The center's mission is to "gather in sacred spaces to explore, renew, and connect with our faith, our communities, and ourselves."