Men’s Retreat

A time for reflection, rejuvenation, and no cooking or dishes! That’s what the annual Elk Grove United Methodist Church Men’s Retreat brings to the guys in our congregation.

We started the Men’s Retreat more than ten years ago and it’s always a great way for the guys to bond and get to know each other in a relaxing and fun environment. In deference to those who are football fans, we always plan it for late January or early February on the weekend between the NFL Conference Playoffs and the Super Bowl.

The retreat is a time for the guys to gather under the leadership of an outside facilitator who develops a theme for the weekend program, usually after offering the men a few different themes from which to choose. Our studies may be biblically-based, tackle personal and family challenges, or help us find balance in our work lives. We gather for the program time in an informal, casual and confidential setting with as much interaction as comfortable for the individual attendees. The side benefit is that we all have a chance to get to know each other better, with plenty of free-time built into the weekend as well (that’s how the guys roll!).

One of our main recreational activities during the retreat – eating good food! After meeting for dinner Friday evening upon our arrival, the all-inclusive retreat cost includes five great meals from Saturday breakfast through Sunday lunch, and two nights lodging. We use the Sisters of Mercy retreat center in Auburn. The center provides each attendee with a private room. The grounds are spacious, the staff friendly and accommodating, and the food is excellent.

All men are invited to join us at the next men’s retreat. It’s a great way to recharge the batteries, refresh your soul and connect with the other men in our congregation.