By Sharon Mager, BaptistLIFE Correspondent
FAIRFIELD, Pa.—Emmitsburg Community Church will host “Weight Stripping,” a pastor’s retreat from Sept. 29 to Oct 1 at Middle Creek Christian Retreat Center, Fairfield, Pa.
Gary Buchman, pastor of Emmitsburg Church stressed that the retreat is for pastors and their wives to come to be refreshed.
The theme is based Hebrews 12:1-3, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such hostility against himself from sinners, so that you may not grow weary or lose heart.”
“This is a time of encouragement,” Gary Buchman said.”We know there are guys struggling, some are wounded. This is a time for weary warriors to laugh, worship, and be encouraged.“ Buchman said he and his wife, Debbie, understand the struggles and have a heart to help others.
The Middle Creek Bible Conference Center is close to Ski Liberty Mountain Resort near Gettysburg National Park.
“It’s a really quiet place with the opportunity to enjoy nature or visit some historic sites,” Buchman said.
The retreat speaker will be David Lee, former executive director of the Mid-Atlantic Baptist Network/BCMD.
Lee made a confession of faith when he was 15 years old and accepted the call to preach at age 16. He was a senior pastor by the age of 23 and served more than half of his ministry in the Maryland/Delaware area as a pastor, and on state convention staff until his recent retirement.
He and his wife Sherry, have a God-given desire to minister to pastors and their wives. The couple has coordinated intentional initiatives and events to foster strong family ties within ministers’ own families.
The cost is $50 per person or $100 per couple. The fee is being heavily subsidized by the church and other individuals. Registration is limited. For more information or to receive registration material, email Gary Buchman.