Voices of Hope: What Participants Are Saying! 💖
The best way to know how incredible the retreat was? Hear it directly from the hearts of those who attended! When asked what they liked best about the retreat here is what was said:
- “Being around so many nice people.”
- “I got a rainbow tattoo!”
- “I liked seeing my friend be the first one running in for the polar bear dip.”
- “I loved being with my friends.”
- “I loved worship and doing songs with actions.”
- “It was so much fun to spend so much time with my friends.”
- “The wagon ride was really fun!”
- “I got to meet new people and try some fun activities.”
- “I thought it was funny when the goat tried to eat my pants!”
- “Praise time was really fun!”
- “I got to be with people who I haven’t seen in a long time!”
- “I met a good new friend!”
- “I can’t wait to sign up next year!”
- “The HCM staff did some really funny things!”
- “I love my new t-shirt!”
- “Archery was fun!”
Do you enjoy the feeling of special excitement when you know something truly wonderful is about to begin? For over 80 individuals, that feeling became an exciting reality from May 30th to June 1st as they gathered for the Hope Centre Ministries Spring Retreat at Camp Arnes! Thanks to the generous support of our community of donors, everyone was able to attend, truly showing that we’re all in this together.
Participants arrived with high spirits, some on the rented but comfortable charter bus, others by accessible transport, and many in personal vehicles. Each arrival added to the excitement and expectation! As everyone settled into their rooms and discovered their “Salt & Light” retreat t-shirts within their welcome kits, the stage was set for a weekend of community, connection, joyful adventure, and spiritual growth.
Shining Bright: Learning About Salt & Light 💡
This year’s theme, “Salt & Light” from Matthew 5:13-16, truly shone! Across three inspiring worship/learning times, we explored Jesus’ powerful words: He created each and every one of us to be a difference-maker in this world.
- You Are the Salt of the Earth! We discovered that ordinary people, like you and me, are called to add flavor and joy to life. Through engaging object lessons (yes, even floating eggs!), we learned that salt is powerful (lifting others up), makes a difference (achieving the seemingly impossible), and that the right amount matters (shining genuinely without overwhelming). We declared together, “I AM Salt!” embracing our calling to be difference-makers.
- You Are the Light of the World! We explored what it means to truly shine for Jesus. We learned that our light needs to be “plugged in” to its source (Jesus!) and that we need to remove anything that gets in the way of our brightness. We even saw how a gentle light, like a black light on a Yooperlite rock, can reveal unexpected beauty – just as Jesus reveals beauty in every person. We proclaimed, “I AM Light!” ready to reflect His love.
- Our Actions Matter: On our final morning, we focused on what it means to be Salt and Light in our daily lives. We were reminded that our actions speak volumes – people see what we do and can see Jesus through us. It’s about letting our light shine before others so they can give praise to God, and being true to who we say we are.
Beyond the Lessons: Laughter, Adventure, and Unforgettable Moments! 🎉
But the retreat wasn’t just about profound lessons – it was about living them out! Our small “Grow Groups” explored the “Salt & Light” theme in hands-on ways: making beautiful suncatchers, exploring object lessons and making salt-shaker instruments, and playing a game that taught us the power of sharing.
Then came the adventures! Participants had the freedom to “piece” together their own retreat experience, choosing from a variety of amazing activities:
- Camp-Run Thrills: The exhilarating “flying squirrel,” precision archery, and heartwarming wagon rides with animal visits (the goats were definitely a hit!).
- HCM-Led Fun: Unique crafts like glow slime and sun-reflective paper, collaborative games like F.L.A.S.H. (Follow Light And Salt, Hooray!), and receiving our very own light sticks!
- Cozy Campfire Indoors: Even with a smoky weekend and a fire ban, our indoor campfire was a place for warmth, stories, and connection… and roasted hot dogs and marshmallows!
Community Built: The Heart of Every Moment 🫂
Every aspect of the retreat, from the matching t-shirts that created a visual representation of togetherness, to shared meals around tables, to singing and praying as one, was designed to build community. We believe God makes us one when we gather in fellowship.
And that’s why Hope Centre Ministries works to accommodate the many unique needs for those who signed up – with visual schedules, quiet spaces, dietary needs, accessible transport, and simple yet powerful worship times filled with engaging object lessons and group participation. It’s not about creating a “perfect” weekend; it’s about making space for belonging for everyone.
Missed Out? Don’t Miss the Next One! 🗓️
Did reading these stories make you wish you were there? We understand! The excitement for our next retreat is already building. You definitely don’t want to miss out on the laughter, adventure, and profound connections that await.
Join our email list to get exclusive updates and ensure you don’t miss out on the next unforgettable Hope Centre Ministries Retreat!
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Thank you for being part of the Hope Centre Ministries story. We can’t wait to welcome you to our next retreat – where everyone truly belongs!
