SHAPE Retreat
Mon/13/Oct 2008
Beth and I returned from the SHAPE retreat Saturday
evening exhausted and encouraged. We both agreed that
it was one of the best thing we have done together in
a very long time. We spent most of the weekend in a
room with 20 other pastoring couples, dealing with
issues that relate to how the emotional, physical,
and spiritual demands of pastoring. Al Ells did a
phenomenal job leading each session that centered on
these unique aspects. Al helped spend considerable
time addressing the cultural shift that has occurred,
and its effect upon the pastor and their family.
Virtually every couple testified to the positive
influence our weekend had on their relationship. I
went into the weekend thinking that our marriage was
about “as good as it gets.” I’ve always thought Beth
and I were definitely on the right track. I still
believe that, but after looking at our results and
discussing some issues, I realize that we have some
work to do. I better understand how important it is
to accept one another’s differences, and I understand
more of why we are different.
All in all, I very hopeful that this weekend will help Beth and I to increasingly understand one another, and enable us to grow closer. Pastoring is not always easy on families, but I am confident that it doesn’t have to be a detriment.
All in all, I very hopeful that this weekend will help Beth and I to increasingly understand one another, and enable us to grow closer. Pastoring is not always easy on families, but I am confident that it doesn’t have to be a detriment.
