Formats & Application
Retreat Formats
Retreats are offered as either Self-directed or in a Guided formats
Self-Directed
A Self-directed retreat is one in which the retreat participants come as an individual or as a couple, for a time of personal rest, prayer and reflection.
The participants have full access to the facilities of Enduring Heart, participate in common meals with other people who may also be on retreat, and have the option to participate in common worship and communion times, but do not participate in any of the Guided sessions.
Guided
The Guided format is one in which retreat participants come as individuals, couples or mini-groups of up to six people and follow a scheduled set of activities guided by a retreat theme.
Even if a retreat has a theme, the content may vary from one retreat to another based on the needs of the applicant and the leading of the Spirit of the retreat leaders.
Retreats are planned to follow several formats ranging from individuals to mini-groups up to six people.
Personal retreats for individuals or couples can be scheduled at any time, depending on the availability of accommodations. In the case of personal retreats, up to three individuals or three couples can be accepted at any one time.
Mini-Group retreats will be scheduled on a periodic basis at multiple times throughout the year.
The specific content or topics of the retreat sessions (e.g., Bible studies and mentoring sessions) will be related to maintaining a healthy balance across the various aspects of our spirit, soul (mind, will and emotions) and body.
Access & Applications
It is the prayer of Enduring Heart Ministries that recipients of retreat services are not burdened by the necessary costs of the hosting services. As much as possible, the costs of the various retreats, including hosting location, meals and materials, are covered by a nominating Church or ministry group, or through independent donations received by the Ministry (see the Support Us page for ways to provide independent donations).
For practicality purposes, access to a retreat follows some basic guidelines. These guidelines are not prescriptive, rather they offer a means to frame the retreat planning and guide the prayer team in preparation for arrival.
Basic guidelines
- Christians, including those who are questioning their faith.
- Mainly coming from leadership roles, full-time or lay ministers, but not necessarily exclusively (e.g., could also include private individuals)
- Undergoing significant life challenges or feeling burdened by their faith.
- Desire to explore deepening of faith while seeking better life balance.
Nomination for selection
- Nomination by Church or ministry group with provided rationale.
- Self-nominated with provided rationale. In case of self-nominated, they may be encouraged to provide a support letter from their church, pastor, small group or other ministry leader.
Placement into a Self-directed or Guided retreat is made after applications and rationale are reviewed by Enduring Heart Directors in collaboration with ministry partners according to:
- Alignment with the intended participant guide.
- Alignment with basic selection criteria.
- Availability of accommodations.
Access & Applications
For practicality purposes, access to a retreat follows some basic guidelines. These guidelines are not prescriptive, rather they offer a means to frame the retreat planning and guide the prayer team in preparation for arrival.
Basic guidelines
- Christians, including those who are questioning their faith.
- Mainly coming from leadership roles, full-time or lay ministers, but not necessarily exclusively (e.g., could also include private individuals)
- Undergoing significant life challenges or feeling burdened by their faith.
- Desire to explore deepening of faith while seeking better life balance.
Nomination for selection
- Nomination by Church or ministry group with provided rationale.
- Self-nominated with provided rationale. In case of self-nominated, they may be encouraged to provide a support letter from their church, pastor, small group or other ministry leader.
Placement into a Self-directed or Guided retreat is made after applications and rationale are reviewed by Enduring Heart Directors in collaboration with ministry partners according to:
- Alignment with the intended participant guide.
- Alignment with basic selection criteria.
- Availability of accommodations.