The “Take Heart!” respite retreats invite all teachers and all church workers to step away for a few days. The retreat will provide rest and renewal for all dedicated teachers and for all commissioned ministers who have served faithfully throughout and beyond COVID challenges. The goal is to serve the servants and have them return to their schools and parishes refreshed for the work God has given them to do.

These retreats are fully funded by the LCMS Office of National Mission; there is no cost for participants to attend!

PLEASE NOTE:  Respite retreat registration is available only for those Teachers and Commissioned Ministers who are actively serving an LCMS church, school, or institution.

The respite retreat features:

• Worship where participants can gratefully receive the Word.
• Mutual conversation and interaction of the participants.
• Exploration of spiritual care resources.
• Christian psychological tools/strategies for resilience and application in home, school and parish settings.
• Table talk among participants to allow for important sharing, debriefing, and problem-solving.

This retreat will provide encouragement for ministry, enhance confidence in ministry and will strengthen all teachers and all commissioned ministers.  Respite retreat participants often report, “this is just what I needed!”

Presenters for the Retreat 

Rev. David C. Fleming

Executive Director for Spiritual Care

Dr. Beverly K. Yahnke 

Executive Director for Christian Counsel

Location:  The retreat sessions and single occupancy lodging will be at the Christian Retreat Conference Center.  Learn more about the venue: click here. Address and map: click here

Cost: All Teachers and Commissioned ministers may register online from this web page and will attend at no cost. (There are no provisions for spouse or family members to attend.) Registration includes instructional materials, meals, receptions, and lodging.