After challenging seasons of ministry, time away with others who have experienced similar things can be life-giving. Last year, one of our thoughtful North Carolina Conference laity offered her family’s Lake Gaston home for clergy covenant groups to use as a part of the NCCUMC’s response to clergy care. This layperson’s dedication to pastoral wellbeing continues, and she has reached out to additional laity who have offered personal homes for our NC pastors to use.
Retreat Spaces for Clergy Covenant Groups: Current homes available include Lake Gaston, Atlantic Beach, and Indian Beach. Houses and condos are open to clergy gatherings, though not for families, children, or other groups. United Methodist pastors serving in local church ministry can arrange short stays from January to March 2024. If you don’t have a covenant group, consider inviting several pastors to join you. You might create a covenant group and friendships that will last throughout your ministry!
Space for a solo getaway: For pastors who need time alone, a layperson has offered a smaller Atlantic Beach condo to suit one person.
If you are interested, please reach out directly to Josey Snyder (josey.snyder@nccumc.org), and she will coordinate with you to see if there is a match for your covenant group.
If you’re looking for a spiritual retreat in the Durham area, here’s an option to consider.