We are excited to announce the upcoming Executive Skills for Church Leaders retreat, hosted by the Thriving Leadership Formation Program of Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary. This transformative event, scheduled for January 6-10, 2025, will take place at the serene Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center in Carefree, Arizona. View PDF poster here.

This week-long continuing education event is designed specifically for pastors, deacons, and church leaders, providing a dedicated space to explore essential aspects of leadership and congregational life. Participants will engage with expert faculty and fellow church leaders, gaining valuable tools to navigate the complexities of ministry.

Daily Themes and Expert Facilitators

Each day focuses on a different theme, facilitated by experienced professionals:

1. Conflict Management - Learn effective strategies for managing and resolving conflicts, including understanding cultural differences in communication and conflict styles. Facilitators: Felecia Boone and Desta Goehner.

2. Human Resources - Discuss policies, practices, and procedures vital for a healthy team culture, and learn how to conduct non-bias interviews. Facilitator: Felecia Boone.

3. Contemporary Leadership - Examine principles of organizational leadership and reflect on interactions of personal and organizational factors in leadership effectiveness. Facilitators: Chris Njunge and Paul Witman.

4. Congregations in the Digital Age - Develop a sustainable social media strategy to foster community engagement and share the Gospel. Facilitator: Catherine Slabaugh.

Who Should Attend?

This retreat is open to leaders from all denominations, including pastors, deacons, bishops, synod staff, professional leaders, and faith leaders. It’s an invaluable opportunity for anyone looking to grow in their competency and confidence in ministry leadership.

Details and Registration

• Dates: Monday to Friday, January 6-10, 2025

• Location: Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center, Carefree, AZ

• Cost:

  • Private room: $1,250 per person

  • Double occupancy: $950 per person

  • Triple occupancy: $850 per person

  • Commuter: $650 per person (includes program, lunches, dinners, snacks)

  • Price includes five days of programming, five nights lodging, and 13 meals.

Registration:

To register, visit Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center’s website or call 480-488-5218. You can also email info@spiritinthedesert.org.

Join us for this life-giving retreat and walk away empowered and supported by a network of professionals and peers.