“We got to get out of our bubbles!” “This retreat with other women pastors is something I’ve dreamt of for years.” This past August, 10 female pastors from across 6 states gathered at EdenRidge Missionary Retreat Center in Tennessee ready for a time of rest and reset in Jesus. Our group included several pastors from a Church Boom Coaching Cohort and this was the first time we had all met in person after months of zoom sessions. We had lead pastors, worship pastors, kids pastors, a discipleship pastor (and my 2 month old daughter!) come together for this special time. Against a beautiful backdrop of the Smokey Mountains, we found refreshment for our souls and built friendships that as one attendee shared, will last throughout eternity.
One pastor shared that our retreat created a selah for her and another said she was surprised that we all were able to connect so quickly with no judgement. We encountered Jesus through fun waterfall hikes, lots of conversation and connection, prayer times, delicious food and last but not least – long naps! What a gift to pause from pouring out and receive. We not only experienced soul restoration during our time together, but left with fresh vision to divert daily, withdraw weekly and abandon annually. By the end of the four days, it felt like we had known each other for years, and we were surprised by how rested and refreshed we were. We can’t wait for next year!
