Shepherd's Way

Shepherding the Shepherds Through a Journey of Growth and Healing

As a church leader, you devote your life to caring for others. Yet the reality of church leadership can often feel lonely and isolating. The relentless stress and demands of your role can put a tremendous strain on your family and relationships. You might find yourself thinking, “I can’t do this anymore” or “I didn’t sign up for this.”

You feel exhausted. Weary. Worn out.

We can help.

For over 25 years, we have helped thousands of ministry leaders find healing and renewed hope. Shepherd’s Way is our hybrid retreat designed specifically for church leaders to experience a safe, healing community.

Shepherd’s Way is thoughtfully designed with two integrated sections to accommodate the busy schedules of pastors and church leaders.

The 10-day in-person retreat is led by onsite, licensed counselors who provide compassionate care from a biblical foundation. You’ll also connect with mentors who have faced and overcome significant ministry challenges.
The 2-month virtual component allows you to continue your journey of growth and renewal with your mentor. These mentors are specially trained to work with the Alongside team, ensuring you receive ongoing, personalized support.

When you attend Shepherd’s Way, you'll discover the support and resources you need to continue living out your calling with renewed passion and hope.

Length

Shepherd’s Way is a 10-day in-person retreat followed by 2 months online.

Dates

See upcoming dates and availability.

Location

To be determined.

Who It's For

Shepherd’s Way is for domestic pastors and church ministry leaders. If you are shepherding, discipling, caring, teaching, administering or organizing church ministries, Shepherd’s Way is for you!

Please note – we carefully shape each cohort to avoid overlap that may compromise confidentiality.

Cost

Costs are inclusive of programming, accommodations and most meals.

$4,375 per individual

$4,875 per couple

$1,175 per child or teenager

Kids and Teens

No kids and teen programs are provided.

Schedule for the 10-day In-person Retreat

During each weekday, you will participate in the following components:

Morning: Learning

Growth-oriented seminars designed by people in ministry for people in ministry.

Morning: Sharing

Group sessions where participants share their stories and grow together.

Afternoon: Going Deeper

Individual or couple’s counseling with a licensed therapist from Alongside.

Afternoon & Evening: Resting

Unscheduled time for solitude, rest, recreation and fellowship.

There is minimal scheduled programming on the weekend; we encourage rest, recreation and sabbath. Shepherd’s Way is intentionally designed for rest and renewal. We leave space in the so you can breathe, reflect and spend time with the Lord.

Schedule for the 2-month Online Component:

During the online portion of Shepherd’s Way, you will experience the following virtual components:

Growth seminar videos
(1 hour a week):

Once a week, you will continue to learn about topics that are thoughtful and relevant to church leadership.

Group counseling
(1 hour a week):

Once a week, you will meet with your group and mentor(s) virtually as you continue to process the challenges of faith, life and ministry together.

Mentoring
(1 hour every other week):

Every other week, you will meet with your mentor. Our mentors (individuals and couples) are highly experienced, carefully trained and uniquely equipped to walk with you as you grow.