“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5
No one started out in youth ministry with the intent of burning out – but it’s happening! We are working longer hours, volunteering more, attending more meetings, visiting more youth and as a result we end up burning out, our passion begins to die and our soul becomes dry.
So WHY does Youth Unlimited host Soul Care Retreats? Take a look at what former youth workers are saying… (from What’s Happening? The state of youth ministry in Canada)
- 41% said they get more satisfaction out of his/her current job than they did working with youth.
- 56% said they are more satisfied with themselves as a person at this stage of life than while working as a youth leader.
- 75% said that the health of their relationships outside of work has improved since leaving youth ministry.
- 49% said their faith is stronger now compared to when he/she was a youth leader
- 63% say they have a more balanced life now that they have left youth ministry.
- and when asked the reason for leaving youth ministry BURNOUT made the top 4 reasons!
It’s time to change the trends! It’s time to be refreshed!
So what is a Soul Care Retreat? It is a time for you to connect to God and to others. It’s a time to learn and grow. It’s a time to read a good book, relax and perhaps take a much needed nap. It’s a time to be still and let God speak to you to refresh your soul. Out of the overflow of your refreshment you can be better equipped to serve the youth God has called you to serve.
Our aim for these two day long retreats is to support, encourage, network, and minister to professional and volunteer youth workers. They are held during winter months and hosted in a variety of North American locations. Each will remained focused on Christ through engaging speakers, times of corporate worship and small group discussions.
“Reinvigorated with the surprise and delight of God’s word. Renewed in dependence on God through prayer for ministry planning. Refreshed by colleagues near and far, old and new who were there!”
Daryl DeKlerk – First CRC – Barrie
