Gathering of Silence Offers Respite to Ministers

by David Peppler

Some go to deepen their relationship with God. Some go to discern God’s next steps for them. Some go to rest and relax. Some go to plan without distractions. Some go for peer engagement. Some go to get away from the issues surrounding them—to simply breathe.

Each year during the first full week of October, pastors from around BGAV join together at CrossRoads Camp and Conference Center in Lowesville, VA, for 72 hours of whatever they need the most. This retreat is open to men and women who serve as pastors or in other pastoral roles. There have been times when pastors of other denominations have joined in as well for this time primarily devoted to spiritual renewal.

Opportunities abound with hiking trails and incredible scenery. It is a perfect place for deep reflection, whether sitting on the mountainside or next to the mountain stream or rocking with eyes closed on Hunt Hall’s deck. Off the mountain are other options for hiking, fishing, golfing, and more.

The retreat begins with lunch on Monday and ends with lunch on Thursday. Devotional materials are provided for participants to follow if they choose, with a daily focus on scripture and spirituality. Everyone approaches this retreat with an understanding that we will not be speaking at all during time together, with one daily voluntary exception from 7:00 – 9:00pm, when there is an optional time for reflection and discussion.

I encourage all pastors to give this retreat serious consideration. But there are others who need to hear this request: churches. The congregations these men and women serve are aware of their pastor’s work. They appreciate the ministry that often goes above and beyond their job descriptions. October is Pastor Appreciation Month. What better gift can your church give your pastor than a time away for whatever renewal your pastor needs? Sponsor your pastor. Put this event in your annual budget so he or she can experience a time of refreshing for their soul. Affirm the person who serves you well by allowing them to spend some time growing in their own faith.

For any of the pastors who choose to participate, there is a free coaching session to all during their retreat. Many have taken advantage of this to discuss spiritual matters, discernment, issues in their context, and more. A lot of pastors have left their retreats with a far stronger sense of clarity and focus because of the combined time with God and the coaching encouragement.

Pastors continue to face new dynamics in church life constantly. The post-pandemic world isn’t finished evolving. Attending a Gathering of Silence could benefit any pastor in many ways— from spiritual renewal, to a sharper focus on ministry, to a new sense of calling, to a clarifying view on a personal issue.

For years, people have said that CrossRoads is a place where “the silence is so loud you can hear God.” Come to the Gathering of Silence October 2–5 to rest and listen to God. See the related ad on the next page, and register today.

David Peppler is coordinator of the Gathering of Silence Retreat.