Restore your soul.

Flourish in life and leadership.

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Who We Are

Leaders Who Understand the Weight You Carry

After decades in ministry, we know firsthand how heavy leadership can feel—and how easy it is to neglect your own soul in the process. Soul Care Matters was born from our own journey through burnout and renewal. Today, we walk alongside pastors, leaders, and couples to help them restore their souls, rediscover joy, and lead from a place of wholeness.

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restoration stories

What Others Are Experiencing

We’ve had the privilege of walking alongside pastors, leaders, and couples as they discover rest and wholeness in Jesus. Here’s what a few of them have shared about their journey with Soul Care Matters.

For over 20 years, Merle has been a vital part of my ministry and has helped me care for my soul. Now through Soul Care Matters, Merle and Karen create space for real rest, healing, and a fresh connection with Jesus. This is something every pastor and leader needs. Their kindness, wisdom, and Spirit-led guidance help leaders slow down, breathe again, and remember that ministry flows best out of a soul that’s been cared for. Those who are part of their ministry walk away encouraged, refreshed, and ready to keep serving with joy.

Dr. Eric Smith
Lead Pastor
Hope City Church, Bonita Springs, FL

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.

Josh Hedger
Co-Founder
Hedger Counseling and Consulting

Shaping the soul to flourish in life and lead with wholeness.

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