Christian Retreat Ideas- The Finishing Touch

By Mark Dubler
Executive Director, Otyokwah Camp & Retreat Center

So you’ve planned a retreat for your church group. Now you need some new Christian retreat ideas. You can make your event a more enriching experience if you pay attention to the details and add some creativity.

If you have not yet defined a purpose for your retreat, this is the first thing you should do. Once you have defined the purpose of your event, you will want to pick a theme. Themes can center on a passage of scripture (i.e.: 1Corinthians 13). Some people choose a theme based on a subject (i.e.: faithfulness, joy, or intimacy). Still other event planners go with fun themes like country western or medieval times. There are many Christian retreat ideas that can be a catalyst to your theme.

A great suggestion is to recruit a group of volunteers to help in planning and executing the event. Initiate several brainstorming sessions during your planning meetings with these volunteers. Many creative Christian retreat ideas will originate from these brainstorming sessions.

The most obvious ways to incorporate your theme into your retreat are in the food, the music, the speaker’s sessions, and the activities. Other Christian retreat ideas are unique, ranging from the idea of hanging posters on the walls of the dorm rooms, to playing games that teach the theme through interaction.

Don’t forget to consider the comfort of your retreat attendees. Give them a preparation list so that they can pack to accommodate the weather, the setting, and the activities. Also include in the list additional items that may come in handy when they are at the retreat, such as a journal, flashlight, and insect repellant. These Christian retreat ideas make the difference between a good experience and a poor experience.

Another one of many favorite Christian retreat ideas is to gift each guest, upon arrival, with a small tote bag filled with items such as a water bottle, a package of crackers, a name tag, a highlighter, and best of all…earplugs. (A good night’s sleep is imperative to a great retreat experience!) You may also choose to leave a mint on the pillow of each attendee. These small yet thoughtful gifts will make your guests feel comfortable and welcome. Paying attention to these small details will be well worth your time and effort and ensure a memorable retreat experience for all.

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Mark Dubler is the Executive Director of Otyokwah Camp & Retreat Center and a Christian Retreat Ideas expert. Check out our great discounts for first-time groups at  Otyokwah Camp & Retreat Center.