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.

Attending the Soul Care Matters retreat was a truly transformative experience. I arrived unsure of what to expect, but was immediately struck by the beauty of the setting and the peaceful atmosphere it created. Sharing the weekend with five other couples fostered a sense of community and connection that was both comforting and enriching. The experiential activities—like selecting a rock that represented my soul and shaping play dough to reflect the current state of my soul—were a lot out of my comfort zone but offered a creative and introspective way to explore my inner life. One of the key elements was the intentional focus on silence, solitude, and sabbath. These themes were not only discussed but gently woven into the rhythm of the retreat, especially during the generous free time that allowed us to truly experience stillness. I left with a renewed appreciation for the importance of caring for my soul—not as a luxury, but as a necessity. A well-cared-for soul, I discovered, is not only more resilient but also more joyful. This retreat was a gift, and its impact continues to unfold in my daily life.