Retreats & Formation
Space for leaders to breathe, reflect, and be renewed in Christ
A Different Kind of Retreat
Most leadership retreats are conferences with a different name—packed schedules, constant input, and a flurry of activity that leaves leaders more exhausted than when they arrived.
Stillwater retreats are designed for actual rest and genuine formation. We create unhurried space where leaders can step out of the noise, reconnect with God, and allow the Holy Spirit to do the deep work that cannot happen in the rush of daily leadership.
Our retreats prioritize depth over volume, experience over instruction, and integration over inspiration. Leaders return not with more to do, but with more clarity about who they are and how God is calling them to lead.
Be still, and know that I am God.— Psalm 46:10
Retreat Formats
Three pathways designed for different seasons and needs.
5-Day Immersive Retreat
For Individual Leaders
A full week away from the demands of leadership. Designed for senior pastors, executives, and organizational founders who need deep rest and significant time with God.
- ✓Small cohort of 6–8 leaders
- ✓Guided Scripture reflection
- ✓One-on-one spiritual direction
- ✓Extended silence and solitude
Cohort Formation Experience
For Leadership Teams
Bring your leadership team for a shared formation experience. Build trust, alignment, and healthy rhythms together in a setting designed for genuine connection.
- ✓Team of 4–12 leaders
- ✓Facilitated dialogue sessions
- ✓Shared meals and reflection
- ✓Team alignment exercises
Post-Retreat Integration
Optional Follow-Up
The insights gained on retreat need support to take root. We offer ongoing care to help leaders integrate what they have learned into the rhythms of daily life and leadership.
- ✓Monthly check-in calls
- ✓Peer cohort connection
- ✓Spiritual direction referrals
- ✓Re-entry support
What a Retreat Day Feels Like
Our daily rhythm is designed to create space—space to rest, to listen, to reflect, and to be renewed.
Morning: Silence & Scripture
The day begins slowly. After a quiet breakfast, leaders are invited into extended time alone with God—walking, praying, reading Scripture, or simply sitting in silence. There is no pressure to produce or perform.
Midday: Guided Reflection
A brief gathering time for guided reflection or teaching—never more than 45 minutes. The focus is on presence, not information. We explore themes of rest, identity, calling, and the way of Christ.
Afternoon: Rest & Renewal
Sabbath time. Leaders are encouraged to nap, walk, journal, or simply be. For many, this is the hardest and most valuable part—learning to stop without guilt.
Evening: Shared Table
A simple meal shared together. No agenda. No facilitation. Just the gift of unhurried conversation with others who understand the weight of leadership. Some of the most meaningful moments happen here.
Night: Compline & Rest
An optional brief evening prayer closes the day. Then rest—real rest—in the quiet assurance that the work will wait and that God is still God.
What Participants Can Expect
Spiritually
- •Renewed connection with God
- •Clarity about calling and direction
- •Freedom from performance-driven spirituality
- •Deeper rootedness in Christ's love
Practically
- •Physical rest and restoration
- •Tools for sustainable rhythms
- •Connection with like-minded leaders
- •Framework for ongoing formation
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.— Matthew 11:28
Express Interest in Our Retreats
Stillwater retreats will begin in 2026. We are currently building our launch partner list and gathering expressions of interest from leaders who may want to attend or send their teams.