By Tom Ellsworth
Throughout my college years, I served in part-time youth and preaching ministries, but as a new graduate I was eager to plunge headfirst into full-time ministry. So, with a freshly inked diploma in my hip pocket, I set out to change the world. It didn’t take me long to realize I was going to need help—and lots of it!
While I was familiar with the concept of a mentor, the actual word had been used sparingly in my college years. In reflection, I think we preaching majors were expected to “get out there and get the job done,” and we were happy to give it our best shot. I received a terrific education, but classroom knowledge does not always translate easily into practical application. It’s one thing to grasp ministry in a lecture hall; it’s quite another to be on the frontlines face to face with elders, deacons, staff, Sunday school teachers, volunteers, and building custodians, all of whom have differing and often conflicting views on “how to do church.”
A Mentor to Ministers
When I became senior minister of Sherwood Oaks Christian Church in Bloomington, Indiana, I knew I needed the wisdom of experience I didn’t yet have. I called several well-respected ministers and offered to buy their lunch if I could pick their brains for an hour. Each one graciously responded, and for me their collective wisdom was like gold. These preachers became mentors to me. One of those men was Bob Russell, who was leading Southeast Christian Church at the time. Despite his busy schedule, Bob took time to invest in my life and ministry. A few years later, Bob organized a small group of us preachers in churches of similar size and we continued to meet annually to swap ideas and encourage one another. That fellowship of preachers was a true gift to me. And as I was preparing to retire after 40 years with Sherwood Oaks, Bob invited me to work with him in his mentoring retreats: A Time of Refreshing.
Bob’s heart has long been geared toward encouraging and mentoring men in ministry. When he retired from his stellar 40-year ministry with Southeast Christian Church, Bob created this unique retreat to encourage those who serve as lead ministers in their congregations. I use the word “retire” loosely; most of us in ministry don’t really “retire,” we “retool.” And Bob set the bar high in his next chapter of ministry.
For the last four years I’ve had the privilege of working with him and learning from him. I’ve watched as Bob graciously invests his time and expertise. His compassion for preachers inspires all who attend; I have yet to meet anyone who returns home indifferent to the experience.
You are undoubtedly aware of the increasing need for preachers to serve in our churches. Many are stepping away from ministry to find work in the secular arena. Recently, while working with a disheartened minister, he told me, “I not only have no wind in my sails, I don’t have any sails!” Another opined, “I loved the church for what it was supposed to be; I hated the church for what it was.” Yet another minister confessed that his wife is so discouraged by the people in the church that she’s questioning whether she really wants to be a Christian any longer! That’s heartbreaking.
With fewer young folks entering the preaching ministry and with many of those already in ministry leaving for a variety of reasons, it’s imperative that our twenty-first century churches find ways to stem the tide of resignations. A Time of Refreshing is one effort to help encourage ministers to stay the course. If you’re thinking about throwing in the proverbial towel, please reconsider. Maybe a fresh look at ministry and some new-found camaraderie will encourage you to give it another try. A Time of Refreshing would be a good place to start.
What to Expect
Let me tell you what you can expect during this 65-hour getaway. To promote meaningful interaction, each retreat is limited to eight lead ministers. The dynamic created with the few doesn’t easily happen in a larger conference or convention setting.
We gather at the Country Lake Christian Retreat lodge, a relaxing facility nestled in the wooded hills of Southern Indiana. When arriving on Monday afternoon, each minister is greeted by wonderful volunteers who roll out the red carpet. From the moment the attendee steps across the lodge threshold, the volunteers take over. Introductions are made, luggage is carried, and cars are parked. For those who have served in ministry for years, it feels awkward to be served, but we want each man to feel valued. And, unlike staying in dorms or cabins at a Christian service camp, each minister has his own nicely appointed lodge room.
In some ways, the word “retreat” is a misnomer. Down time comes later in the evening, but the days are scheduled full. The mornings begin with devotions led by Joe Donaldson, whose unique look at Scripture sets the tone for the day. After breakfast, Bob and I share what we hope are meaningful, interactive sessions on leadership and preaching.
Additionally, each participant develops a DISC personality profile led by Elizabeth Jeffries, an executive coach from the health care industry. Elizabeth has faithfully provided this challenging two-hour seminar for 19 years. Jack Coffee and Matt Chalfant, former elders at Southeast Christian Church, conduct a session on elder-preacher relationships. As you might imagine, the questions come fast and furious in this hour. Bob’s son, Phil Russell, a retired Louisville Metro Police Lieutenant, shares important insights on “Crises Management.” And Bob’s former Administrative Assistant, Debbie Carper, sits down with the men and provides ideas about “utilizing your administrative assistant’s skills effectively.”
You may be thinking that sounds academically heavy. But wait, there’s more! One afternoon the preachers are treated to a tour of the Louisville Slugger Museum, Louisville’s number one tourist attraction. And the best part of that tour is the private session with Jack Hillerich, the retired owner, and his son-in-law, Bill Clark, a former vice president. These two leaders discuss practical business principles that easily transfer to leading an effective church. Each preacher benefits from the concept of “swimming with the fish” – staying in touch with individuals in the congregation. I wish I had had their insights when I was first starting into ministry.
On the other afternoon, we go “bowling for dollars.” (What’s that you ask? You’ll just have to attend to find out.) This engaging activity builds a teamwork spirit and provides an abundance of laughter. Even if you’re not quite ready to join the Professional Bowlers Association, you’ll have a great time. There is no limit to the lessons that can be learned with a bowling ball, an alley full of pins, and eight less-than-skilled preachers.
On Tuesday evening, the team is treated to a delicious meal at Ruth’s Chris Steak House. I have yet to see anyone leave hungry. On Wednesday evening, we enjoy a meal and relaxed time of sharing at Bob and Judy’s home. The time around their table is a treasured moment.
The retreat concludes mid-Thursday morning, and everyone is on the road or headed to the airport with plenty of time to get home. And hopefully, plenty of encouragement to treasure their call to ministry once again.
The Men Who Attend
I have truly enjoyed meeting men I would not know otherwise. Men who have inspired me with their potential and touched my heart with their pain. Men who have generously shared ministry ideas that are insightful and helpful. Men who have shed tears and shared laughter with us all. I’m grateful for each one I’ve met. The church’s future is brighter because of them!
Here are a few reflections from men who have attended.
Thank you for an incredible retreat. I left feeling refreshed and renewed. This week has breathed new life into my ministry.
I want to say a huge thank you for investing in me at the retreat. It changed my life.
It was refreshing, it was inspiring, and I gained so much wisdom. The practical insights shared will help me better serve the church through preaching the Word and shepherding the flock.
Perhaps It’s Your Turn
How much does A Time of Refreshing cost? For the attending minister, nothing. Each minister is asked to submit a check for $500 to reserve his spot, but the check is returned when he arrives. Through the years, godly people who desire to encourage preachers have supported Bob’s ministry and made this retreat possible. Their generous gifts have enabled us to create something special for these men who have been faithfully serving their congregations. To those whose generosity has made this retreat possible, I say, “Thank you!” Your gifts have impacted the lives and ministries of those who have attended. To date, more than 1,000 preachers have stepped through the lodge doors and heard, “Welcome to A Time of Refreshing; we’re glad you’re here. Let me take your bags.”
For those preachers who haven’t had the opportunity to attend, go to Bob’s website (bobrussell.org), click on the “mentoring” tab, and complete the application at the bottom of the page. If you are an alumnus of the retreat, I sincerely hope you are encouraging others as a result. The next time you reflect on the smiles of those volunteers who parked your vehicle and carried your luggage, take a moment to pay it forward by helping someone else.
I am now in my 50th year of preaching. This wonderful journey has been greatly enhanced by those who encouraged and mentored me along the way. I’m not sure where I would be without such wise and gracious inspiration. Take time to encourage your preacher and his family. Ministry is not always easy, but it can be rewarding when leaders are surrounded by people who truly love the Lord and love his church.
Recently retired from full-time ministry, Tom Ellsworth continues to co-lead “A Time of Refreshing” retreats with Bob Russell.
Author: Christian Standard
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Very well done Tom! I attended one of the early retreats. It was a great experience and yes, I have encouraged others to take advantage of the opportunity! I appreciated every aspect of the retreat.