The “Hopeful, Cheerful, and Undaunted” Retreat is an opportunity for our shepherds and their wives to be nourished and nurtured in their lives together. There will be daily offices (Matin/Vespers) and a communion service, as well as the availability for private confession and absolution. There will be time devoted to providing a relaxed setting for the “mutual conversation and consolation of the brethren” and some free time for the couple to go out on a date. Presentation topics include: the blessings of the parsonage, the prayer life of the parsonage, common stressors on a pastor’s family, grief, and the Lord’s Supper and more. Pastors and their wives will be refreshed by the Gospel of Jesus Christ and made aware of resources for ongoing spiritual care.
Special features:
- Mr. Brad Hall will again serve as our cantor for the various services.
- Breakout session for the wives.
- Free time on Wednesday afternoon/evening.
- Evening gatherings on Tuesday and Wednesday will be available to let your hair down a little. Wine and beer will be available along with hors d’oeuvre. (Sorry, this venue does not allow for liquor.)
Retreat Dates: February 3-5, 2026
Accommodations: Redemptorist Retreat Center, Oconomowoc, WI
1800 N Timber Trail Lane, Oconomowoc, WI
(Yes, we know that a retreat in Wisconsin in February doesn’t sound all that exciting. But it is the only way we could help keep costs down for the majority of congregations hopefully not add too much travel time/cost to your trip. Plus, the excitement isn’t in the location, but the one you’re with– and that was your choice.)
(No shuttles will be organized for this retreat. Everyone is encouraged to acquire their own necessary transportation.)
Room Accommodations:
- Each room has a private bathroom with shower.
- Bed sizes: Full
- Linens, towels and soap are supplied.
- All meals (warm) are provided from Tuesday supper to Thursday lunch.
- Except: Wednesday supper is on your own (free time)
Registration
Early registration (Oct. 1 – Nov. 30): Pastor Appreciation or Thanksgiving
- Couple: $330
- Single: $185
Registration (Dec. 1 – Jan. 11): Christmas present
- Single: $210
- Couple: $375
Hardship support Consider giving a gift to support a pastor (and wife) from another congregation who would otherwise not be able to afford attending the retreat due to financial constraints. Click on the link to the ELS “Donate” page and give a gift with “Pastoral Retreat” in the required “Note” line.
Hardship application: If your pastor (and wife) desire to attend the retreat, but your congregation is unable to financially support the registration fee, feel free to apply for aid. There is no guarantee you will receive aid, but if it is available, we will distribute it.
Itinerary
February 3
- Registration: 1:30 – 2:45 PM
- Greetings & Presentations
- Evening meal provided (6:00 PM)
- Vespers
- Evening Gathering (starts at 7:15 PM)
February 4
- Breakfast (8:00 AM)
- Prayer Office
- Presentations (including a breakout session for wives)
- Lunch (12:00 PM)
- Presentation
- Prayer Office
- Free time (3:15 – ???PM)
- Evening Gathering (available – starting at 7:30 PM)
February 5
- Breakfast (8:00 AM)
- Presentation
- Private Absolution (available)
- Communion Service
- Lunch (12:00 PM)
- Departure (1:15 PM)
- Presentations and Presenters (Coming soon)