UMC Clergy Retreat

February 10-12, 2026

Monastery of the Ascension, Jerome, Idaho

Following an amazing and uplifting retreat last year, UMC clergy are invited to a retreat gathering in February 2026. With discussion, prayer, music, and conversation inspired by the book "7 Practices of Effective Ministry" by Andy Stanley, Reggie Joiner, and Lane Jones, we will spend time growing our faith, enlivening our ministry, and uplifting each other.

While there will be some content presented, the bulk of this retreat will be discussion on leadership, faith, and joy in ministry. Mike Connor & Mia Crosthwaite are leading.

Cost: $274 for private room or $204 for shared room.

Retreat cost includes 2 nights lodging, all meals, and retreat. You may join the monks for daily prayer if you want. There will also be time for solitude and hanging out.

Bring your check with you, made out to: Monastery of the Ascension.

Please bring games, snacks, and/or drinks to share.

FAQs

I'm coming from Oregon. How's the best way to get there?

You can fly to Boise and we'll be happy to arrange a ride with another clergy person. It's about 2 hours from Boise to Jerome. Or you can fly to Twin Falls which is pretty close and we can pick you up. Just let us know.

I need some alone downtime. Will there ever be any of that?

Yes! We have scheduled downtime, and you are also welcome to skip some of the discussions. There are lots of places of solitude in and around the Monastery.

I may have a conflict. What is your cancelation policy?

You may cancel at the last minute. Go ahead and register so we save you a room. If you aren't able to make it, you won't be charged.

Retreat Schedule

Tuesday, Feb. 10

11am-noon .... ARRIVAL

noon .... prayer, lunch

1-2:30pm .... Welcome to the Retreat

3-4:30pm .... Discussion — Clarify the Win

5:30pm .... vespers, dinner

7pm .... hang out (optional)

8pm .... night prayer (optional)

Wednesday, Feb. 11

6:30am .... morning prayer (optional)

7:05 am .... Mass (optional)

8:00am .... breakfast

8:30-10am .... Discussion — Think Steps, Not Programs

10:30am-noon ... Discussion — Narrow the Focus

noon .... prayer, lunch

1-2:30pm .... Discussion — Teach Less for More

3-4:30pm .... Discussion — Listen to Outsiders

5:30pm .... vespers, dinner

7pm .... hang out (optional)

8pm .... night prayer (optional)

Thursday, Feb. 12

6:30am .... morning prayer (optional)

7:05 am .... Mass (optional)

8:00am .... breakfast

8:30-10am .... Discussion — Replace Yourself

10:30am-noon ... Praying for Each Other

noon .... prayer, lunch

1pm .... DEPART

Discussion Questions

Clarify the Win Tuesday at 3:00pm

What was a “win” for you this year?
How did that “win” affect attitudes in your church?
What “win” are you working on this year? What are you excited about?
What gives you joy in ministry?

Think Steps, Not Programs Wednesday at 8:30am

What does the pursuit of “Christian perfection” (maturing in love) look like for the people in your church?
How do you help people move in that direction?
How are you moving in that direction? What helps you?

Narrow the Focus Wednesday at 10:00am

In one sentence, describe your primary contribution to the church.
Name one or more things you do that do not meaningfully serve that primary contribution?
Are there activities you have taken on that have become barriers to excellence or knock you off your center?

Teach Less for More Wednesday at 1:00pm

What are your must-know, can’t-be-without principles?
- (e.g. from Mia: “we are not like-minded, we are like-hearted”)
How do your principles keep you centered when criticized, stressed, or dismissed?

Listen to Outsiders Wednesday at 3:00pm

What are some places outside your church where you regularly interact with unchurched people?
How do you resist catering to insiders?
What are the “outsiders” teaching you about your church?

Replace Yourself Thursday at 8:30pm

Which leadership style do you most identify with? (p. 161)
How do you compensate for the weaknesses of your leadership style?
How do you create space for lay leadership?
How are you setting up the pastor who follows you well?