RMCNews – Colorado Springs, Colorado … The officers and the staff members of the Ministerial Department at the Rocky Mountain Conference (RMC) wanted to show their appreciation for the families who faithfully serve alongside pastors by hosting a special Pastoral Family Retreat, July 27-28, creating space for rest, connection, and shared experiences outside the demands of everyday ministry.
“One of the highlights of the summer was gathering together as the Rocky Mountain Conference family in Colorado Springs. At RMC, we deeply value our pastors and the faithful ministry they provide throughout our conference. We also recognize that behind many pastors is the steadfast support of a spouse and family. Ministry is rarely carried alone, and the encouragement, sacrifices, and prayers of spouses and children are an essential part of that calling,” remarked Sean Lee, RMC Ministerial director.
Lee continued, “To express our appreciation, RMC prepared a small token of gratitude for pastors’ spouses and children for their invaluable support. Throughout our time together, it was a joy to see families reconnect, children laugh and play, and pastors and their loved ones enjoy meaningful fellowship. The retreat reminded us that we are more than coworkers in ministry—we are one RMC pastoral family, united in serving Christ and supporting one another.”
Beginning Monday evening at Springs Adventist Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, almost 20 ministry families gathered for worship, fellowship, and an opportunity to reflect on God’s faithfulness through personal stories of serving together. On Tuesday, families had the opportunity to experience one of Colorado’s most iconic destinations with a group excursion aboard the Pikes Peak Cog Railway before spending the afternoon reconnecting through activities of their choice.
The retreat concluded with a fellowship supper Tuesday evening, providing one final opportunity for ministry families to strengthen friendships, share experiences, and celebrate the relationships that make ministry possible.
More than simply a retreat, conference leaders hope to remind ministry families that their faithful service is deeply valued and that investing in healthy relationships is an important part of sustaining lifelong ministry.
“It was a true blessing to see our pastors and their families come together for some time of relaxation and enjoyment,” remarked Hugo Guillén, RMC Ministerial associate director. “One of the awesome benefits from spending time together was team bonding. Having our pastoral families know that they mean so much to our conference, that we deeply value their commitment, and we are here for mutual support and cooperation.”
—RMCNews. Initial article draft curated by ChatGPT with additions and editing by Liz Kirkland, RMC Communication director. Photos by Sean Lee.
