By Gail Marsh
Yes, you! You have been chosen to organize this year’s women’s retreat. Before you turn on full panic mode, stop! Take some deep, cleansing breaths. There you go . . . breathe in . . . and out. Again. Feel better? No? Well keep reading! Soon you’ll be saying, “Retreat planning? Easy-peasy!”
It’s true! Planning a retreat is a snap when you use CTA’s planning guides. Begin by checking out the newest retreat themes. You are sure to find the theme that appeals to your group. Order the retreat planning guide for your chosen theme and then schedule a meeting with your planning team.
CTA’s retreat outlines contain everything you’ll need for a successful event. Ideas for the following committees are thoughtfully detailed: Hospitality and Food; Publicity and Promotion; Mission Project; and Entertainment. Finding a volunteer to lead each committee is a cinch, especially when women see that everything is clearly detailed for them. This includes the committee’s responsibilities, along with helpful hints to make their job even easier.
You’ll see suggestions for potential schedules in CTA’s retreat planning guides, too. These can be easily modified to best fit your situation. Directions for ice breakers and games are easy to understand and use. (The activities are really fun, too!) Bible study guides, along with thought-provoking discussion questions, will promote in-depth sharing and inspire participants. There are even devotionals and worship suggestions in the planning guide. CTA includes resources for retreat budgeting, a master supply list, and a guide to help you critique your event when it ends.
If that wasn’t enough, participants have their own coordinated workbook that they can use for journaling throughout the retreat. CTA also has wonderful themed gifts for you to give to retreat participants, committee leaders, and guest speakers. These gift items are affordable and impactful. Each one features your theme, along with a Bible verse, which will serve as reminders for the new faith insights your participants gleaned from the retreat.
What are you waiting for? You’ve been chosen to organize this year’s women’s retreat. Don’t panic! CTA is here for you—every step of the way!
You are welcome to copy this article for one-time use when you include this credit line and receive no monetary benefit from it: © 2020 CTA, Inc. Used with permission.
