Lessons Learned from Life in the Desert
With Pastor Dennis & Terry Nelson

For clergy and all rostered leaders who work in the ministry of the church (including spouses/partners).

About the Retreat:

Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while Jesus told his disciples when they were so busy that they did not even have time to eat. During the Lenten season and Holy Week, you will be very busy. Many ministry demands will be placed upon you. Accept this invitation from Jesus by coming to the Post-Easter Spiritual Wellbeing Retreat!

There were many times during Jesus’ ministry that he got away to spend time alone. He spent time alone before choosing his disciples, in order to stay in fellowship with the Father, after the death of his cousin, John the Baptist, and as he was facing the cross. From spending time alone he found wisdom, connection, comfort, and strength. These renewal experiences of Jesus often took place in the desert – as did many other events in the Bible.

In desert:

• Jacob wrestled with God and came face to face with himself – who he was and how he had treated his brother. In the desert we can encounter God and face ourselves.
• Moses learned how to survive in the harsh environment through which he would be leading God’s people. In the desert – without the distractions of daily life – we can be more open to what God has to teach us.
• The Israelites learned to trust God for daily guidance and provision. In the desert we can learn what is most important in life.
• Saul of Taurus began to see how his life would be different now that he had met Jesus. In the desert we can explore the new directions that God wants our lives to take.

About Presenters:

Dennis is a retired ELCA pastor who served the same congregation in southern California for forty years. Terry was a middle school teacher at the congregation’s school. She planned student outdoor education retreats, developed the use of media in church, and created experiential activities to enhance learning and worship. Because of their love for the desert, the Nelsons moved from southern California to the Sonoran Desert of north Scottsdale after retiring. They are looking forward to being able to share with you how living in the desert can bring you closer to God as it did for so many people in the Bible.

Retreat Schedule:

Wednesday
3pm – Get acquainted, share hopes, desires and expectations.
Session One : Jacob
6pm – Dinner
7pm – Session Two: Moses

Thursday
8am – Breakfast
9am – Session Three: The Israelites
Break
10:40am – Session Four: Saul of Tarsus
Noon – Lunch
Afternoon – free time for sabbath rest, exploring the desert, swimming, walking, etc.
6pm – Dinner
7pm – Session Five: Jesus

Friday
8am – Breakfast & Room Checkout
9am – Session Six: Jesus
10:30 am – Wrap up and Closing Worship

Costs:

Includes program, 5 meals and 2 night’s lodging. $260 per person-double occupancy or $310  per person-private room.

This retreat is designed to get you away from work and home to a quiet place. Due to this and the structure and scheduled timing of this retreat, it is not recommended for commuters; however, if cost/travel is prohibitive we understand and can make a commuter priced accommodation for you. Please call (480) 488-5218

To register, please call Guest Services at (480) 488-5218, or email us at [email protected].