|
Women’s Retreat Planning -
Four Steps to Creating a Great Theme
By Mark Dubler
Executive Director,
Otyokwah Camp & Retreat Center
Looking for a theme for a women’s retreat? Many women’s
ministry leaders find themselves in the position of creating
a new theme for the annual women’s retreat. When choosing
from the myriad of possible themes, there are several things
to consider.
1. Know the needs of your group.
It is important to be in touch with the women being served.
What issues are they facing? What topics of conversation
have arisen over the past year? What concerns or
difficulties do they face in their relationships, in their
work, or in their community? A women’s retreat is sure to be
a success if the topic of the retreat addresses these key
issues.
2. Discover what motivates your group.
Keep in mind the motivating factor behind why the ladies
will be attending this women’s retreat. Young mothers need
time away from preschoolers, as well as some adult
conversation. Working women generally gravitate toward times
of recreation and a relaxed schedule. Empty-nesters will
most likely want extended time for conversation.
3. Pick a simple theme around what motivates your group.
Simply choose one word to be the theme for the women’s
retreat. Simple words can be the springboard for many
activities. For example, the topic may be “Freedom.” From
this word, there is direction as to what books to study.
Discussion time can focus on areas of one’s life that need
to feel freedom. Meditation time may focus on getting free
of the thoughts that do not bring life to the heart. Even
decorating the retreat center can focus on freedom, with
red, white, and blue colors. Once the topic is chosen and
the audience is identified, the rest of the women’s retreat
plans will come to life. Choose a word and let the ideas
flow.
4. Plan well and keep the schedule simple.
Accommodating this vast audience may seem overwhelming, but
with a well-planned women’s retreat schedule, it is possible
to meet the needs of most of these ladies. The best recipe
for success includes times of study, discussion, prayer,
worship, meditation, recreation, free time, and of course,
some great snacks available at all times.
In summary, when planning a women’s retreat, creating a
relevant and motivating theme is important. Follow these
four basic tips to help create a successful event.
---
Mark
Dubler is the Executive Director of Otyokwah Camp & Retreat
Center and a
Womens Retreat
expert. Check out our great discounts for first-time groups at
Otyokwah Camp & Retreat Center.
|