RENEW

United Methodist Clergy have been attending Renew sessions since 2003. RENEW will give you two rare and precious gifts: Time and Space. You will have "Time" to rest, to talk together and to reflect. You will have "Space" to be away from the pace of the daily routine. This experience is offered to both married clergy and their spouses and single clergy.

For both married and single clergy, much of the time is spent discussing leadership practices and principles, and how it directly relates to growing your ministry. Part of the RENEW experience involves spending one morning with an experienced marriage counselor who focuses on growing your marriage (married clergy and spouses) or enhancing your relationships (single clergy).

"By stepping away, being totally pampered - getting away from give, give, give and getting into receive, receive...it gave us insight and strategy for strengthening our marriage and ministry."

Russell Smith

Who is RENEW for?

Active United Methodist clergy and their spouses or active UMC singles may attend. Some Bishops require RENEW for ordination, so the session is also open to those who are completing their ordination process.

What is the Cost?

Each Renew experience is a donated gift for UMC clergy. The donor’s gift includes all meals, lodging, books, materials and session facilitation. The only cost to the participants is travel to and from the location. If you register for a session, it is important to attend in order to respect the donors and their gift to you.

Who is the donor?

The donor couple prefers to remain anonymous. They are lay members of the United Methodist Church who wish to offer a renewal experience that focuses on the areas of leadership and congretional relationships to clergy couples and singles in the South Central Jurisdiction.

What is the content and who leads it?

Most sessions are hosted by Gary Swyers, Senior Program Manager at the Soderquist Center. Gary facilitates the Myers-Briggs discussions and leadership content. The relationship discussions are led by one of our highly qualified professionals.

Where is it held and how often?

Held sessions are offered annually at exquisite selected venues as well as at our very own Greystone Estate in Rogers, Arkansas.

How do we make a reservation?

Participants must be recommended by their Bishop, District Superintendent, or a past participant, and each conference has its own process. For more information contact the Soderquist Center at SAxmark@jbu.edu.

"This program was very enlightening and spirit-filled. I will remember this experience and put what I have learned into action."

Saundra R. Clark