February 2024 Newsletter
January Wellness Retreat
On January 8-10, Moses pastors gathered in Des Moines for three days of rest, renewal, and rejoicing.
The retreat began with stations of fun and included daily mystery gifts, music and worship by Dr. Michael Elsbernd from St. John’s, professional development with Kent Schornack, Grand View’s former Director of Leadership and Counseling, great preaching from Moses mentors, a snowstorm (thank you Iowa winter), and time with mentors and mini-cohorts. Archer, Grand View’s therapy dog, even stopped by to say hi. During Moses Mentor Rev. Sarah Ciavarri’s sermon on the Good Samaritan, she reminded pastors that serving in ministry is about proclaiming the Gospel, loving our neighbors, and setting boundaries. The Good Samaritan did not wipe the man’s brow for the next two weeks by himself! Setting boundaries are especially important in rural ministry where the expectations, demands, and requests can be overwhelming.
Here’s what pastors said about their favorite parts of the retreat:
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“intentionally connecting with other rural ministry pastors”
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“our last speaker, the bonding time, the outrageous hospitality, the whole thing”
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“worship and fellowship”
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“the gift bags are really fun and almost hard to receive but appreciated. Worship. It is such a treat to worship without being expected to lead.”
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“when Trisha spoke with purposeful clarity about why we were together”
In-person events remain some of the Moses team’s favorite times of the year. Check out these photos below from our time together.