Retreats are held twice a year in the fall and spring. Here is a typical retreat schedule:
Monday - Arrive and get settled in, greeting friends we haven't seen since the last retreat. Several fellows lead opening worship. After that, we begin check-in, introducing ourselves and giving a brief description of our places of ministry and sharing what's going on with us.
Tuesday - We visit a local church with a healthy and thriving ministry. We talk to the staff about how they have successfully led the church, as well as how they have developed practices for their own health and well-being. In the evening, we debrief, sharing what we learned from our visit. Sometimes we will also have a book discussion on Tuesday evening. Occasionally, the author of the book joins us for our discussion.
Wednesday - After breakfast, we have worship then go into 24 hours of silence. We can use this time to reconnect with God however we like. Some fellows spend most of the time in prayer and rest while others like to hike, read and even have some silent recreation time.
Thursday - We start the day with worship coming out of silence. The mentors meet with their small groups and each fellow does a deeper check-in about what is really going on in their lives and their churches. This small group time provides us with encouragement and accountability. Thursday afternoon is recreational time, often involving sight-seeing trips around town. Thursday evening is a sharing time about the work of Bethany Fellowships, followed by a going-away party.
Friday - We have closing worship and say goodbye to the graduating fellows. Tears, hugs and phone numbers are exchanged freely.