We are happy to announce that, having endured COVID, which interrupted it for the last couple of years, the R & R Retreat is back and better than ever. Years ago, God laid it on my heart to have a retreat for preachers where they could have fun and enjoy some wonderful worship times. It is called R & R (Relax & Refresh) because we want those who attend to go home rested, relaxed, refreshed and ready.
Churches or individuals, this is an opportunity for you to give your pastors and preachers of all ages a break. Pay their expenses, and you’ll be glad you did. Preachers need to be on the receiving end sometimes.
This time is designed to give ministers an opportunity to be themselves while enjoying great food, good facilities and wonderful times of music and worship. Your time is your time — there will be a schedule, but attend all or none, it’s up to you. But I will warn you, you are not going to want to miss a single service.
The facilities are good and the beds are not too bad, but the food is delicious! Not only do we worship in the truest sense of the word, but we actually have fun between times. Activities during break times will consist of pistol and rifle marksmanship, axe throwing, horseshoes, bean bag toss, basketball free throws and hammer throwing, just to name a few. Equipment and ammunition will be provided.
There are no pre-set speakers for the few days we are there. When you arrive to check in, you are invited to drop your name in the bucket and names are drawn after everyone arrives to see who preaches. Who knows, you may be on the program! That is why we say, “Bring your best sermon and leave your tie at home.” Singers and musicians are needed as well.
This is a very laid-back, come-as-you-are event. The Jonesboro Association of Missionary Baptist Churches is the one who underwrites this camp. That way we can keep the cost as low as possible. The cost per guest is $80 and includes snacks, drinks, five hot meals and two nights of lodging. (I know it is hard to believe!) If you would like to attend and cannot afford it, contact me or Ken Beaver for special scholarships.
All preachers really ought to make the effort to come. You will be glad you did, and your people will be glad, too. We even have a guarantee — if you don’t enjoy it, you don’t have to come back!
The R & R Retreat begins at noon on Tuesday, March 28, and will wrap up after breakfast on Thursday, March 30. It will be held at StoneRidge Baptist Camp in Smithville.
For more information, including a tentative schedule, and to register, visit BaptistTrumpet.com/RR2023. You can also contact me or Ken Beaver if you have any questions. Everyone who registers will be given the chance to win a new Heritage single-action .22 pistol.
We only have room for 300, so register soon! See you there.
