2025 Ministerial Association Retreat fosters connection, learning for retreat goers
Roughly 50 pastors from the Northwest Conference joined this year’s fall Ministerial Association Retreat at Covenant Pines Bible Camp where meaningful space was enjoyed with one another, connection unfolded around tables and a few even tried the giant swing!
The retreat began with a plated meal served in “formal” attire by the Ministerial Care and Development Team before moving into our first session Monday night with an opening activity that set the tone for engaging with one another.
Dr. Winn Collier, Associate Professor of Pastoral Theology and Christian Imagination delivered teaching Monday evening and Tuesday morning built around the baptism of Jesus and his time in the wilderness. Dr. Collier highlighted the myriad ways pastors learn to hide from reality when we are disconnected from the voice of the Father as the beloved.
Tuesday night’s workshop on how difficult people in our pews can keep us from pastoring well was led by Gary Gilkinson. We finished Wednesday morning with a very heartfelt space led by Chris Kelly on making peace with our pastoral limits.
Our retreat culminated with a bi-lingual communion litany led by the Rev. Kara Stromberg and the Rev. Edith Soto. Many of our pastors expressed sensing a different kind of sharing was experienced in our time together this year. To God be the Glory!
Please watch your inbox for a survey to help the MCDC team with considerations for next year’s retreat.