Jose R. Alarcón – Ward, Colorado … Around 40 members and friends of Aurora First Seventh-day Adventist Church in Aurora, Colorado, stepped away from the routines of everyday life and gathered for a memorable weekend retreat, August 7-9, at Glacier View Ranch (GVR), the Rocky Mountain Conference’s (RMC) beautiful camp nestled among the clouds at approximately 9,500 feet above sea level near Ward, Colorado.

“Surrounded by the majestic beauty of Colorado’s mountains,” shared Jose R. Alarcón, lead pastor at Aurora First Church, “our group experienced the Word of God as participants studied Scripture, reflected on God’s goodness, prayed together, and strengthened their relationship with Christ. “

Miquela Luna, one of the guests, observed, “This was my first retreat. I did not know what to expect. I really want to know the Bible, but I’ve gotten so much more as I’ve received care and knowledge. During a mountain hike, I stood at the top with the breeze blowing, listening to two members sing praises to God. I will never forget this experience.”

The retreat was about more than Bible study; it was also about fellowship. Members shared meals, conversations, laughter, stories, and experiences. Children and adults played games together, creating moments of joy and camaraderie. Families had opportunities to spend quality time together, away from schedules, technology, work, and the many demands competing for our attention.

Friendships were strengthened, new relationships were formed, and the church family became more closely connected. Head elder Boima Sonii, Sr., shared, “The Aurora First Family Retreat was a memorable experience for my family. Aside from the genuine spiritual fellowship, it brought both members and non-members closer in many ways. We ate together, experienced nature together, played fun games, and above all, we worshiped together.”

The natural setting of Glacier View Ranch added another dimension to the experience. The mountain environment provided opportunities to appreciate God’s creation, breathe fresh mountain air, walk through beautiful surroundings, and reflect on the words of the psalmist: The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament showed his handywork (Psalm 19:1).

For the Aurora First Church members, the weekend demonstrated that church ministry does not happen only inside a sanctuary. Retreats and camp experiences can be powerful opportunities for discipleship, relationship-building, spiritual renewal, and family strengthening.

“The experience also reminded us of the tremendous blessing we have here at the Rocky Mountain Conference,” remarked Alarcón. “Glacier View Ranch is more than a beautiful mountain retreat. It is a ministry resource that can serve churches, families, young people, and institutions throughout the Conference.”

“We therefore encourage other churches, schools, ministries, and Seventh-day Adventist institutions to consider including GVR in their ministry calendars. Come and experience the mountains, study God’s Word, build relationships, strengthen families, create memories, but most importantly, come to support a ministry that belongs to our conference family.”

Attendees of the retreat are grateful for the opportunity to have spent this special weekend at GVR. The people who attended returned with more than photographs and memories—they returned with renewed friendships, stronger families, deeper relationships, and a greater appreciation for God’s Word and His creation.

“Sometimes we need to come apart for a while so that we do not come apart,” reflected Alarcón. “Our GVR experience reminded us that when God’s people intentionally make time for Christ, community, creation, and family, the entire church becomes stronger. Hence, Glacier View Ranch is waiting. The mountains are calling. And our churches can be renewed together.”

—Jose R. Alarcón is lead pastor at Aurora First Seventh-day Adventist Church. Photos by Dina Alarcón.