Merle and Karen Mees led a soul care retreat for our small group, and its impact - years later - continues to be a spiritual marker in my journey with God and others. Merle and Karen shared from their own journey in such a way that made my husband and I feel known and understood. We felt immediately that we were in a safe space to explore where we were with God and with one another. Every detail had been thought of, from the food to the cozy rooms, and of course the soul care content. But what I really carry with me is both of their ability to truly see each attendee and give them permission to be honest about their own spiritual journey. That retreat gave me space to tend to my soul and really notice God in my story. I still use the tools they shared with me and it continues to be a pivotal moment in my life.

As a pastor of 22 years and now a counselor, I’ve experienced many forms of ministry care — but the Soul Care Matters Retreat with Merle and Karen was uniquely restorative. They created a sacred space and time for us to slow down, breathe deeply, and to better know ourselves and our God. I can say with full confidence that this retreat offers more than rest — it offers renewal. If you’re longing to live and lead from a place of wholeness, this is a retreat I wholeheartedly recommend.