Learning Events
Learning events for pastor couples (pastor and spouse) are held once a year. For 48 hours, couples get away to be refreshed and encouraged in their lives, marriage, and ministry. Events are by invitation only. Invitations are limited to the classes in the area where the learning events are to be held.
Mackinac Island, MI - October 2011
On October 12-14, 2011, a group of 16 pastor couples enjoyed two days of learning, refreshment, and fellowship on Mackinac Island, MI. The event was held at the Lilac Tree Hotel, and focused on the topic “Recognizing and Navigating the Small and Big Transitions of Life and Ministry.” Pastors Norm Thomasma and Cecil Van Niejenhuis facilitated the event, which combined lots of small and large group discussion times, as well as free time for enjoying the island’s activities. For many participants this was great time of encouragement and renewal in both their marriage and ministry.
Comments from participants:
• I enjoyed pondering the “transitions” of life and hearing others’ stories. The best part was the plentiful time
to share.
• We all are so busy with Bible studies and programs at church and so this was a nice, relaxing time to rest in
God and listen.
• We thought the event was excellent and helpful for both of us. It was thought provoking and I plan to make
some “small changes” in my life due to the conference.
• Loved the event – thank you so much for all your work! It was wonderful to talk with others and know them
and understand what pastors and spouses are going through.
• This was such a blessing for us – both for learning and for respite.
• The gift of time and retreat makes me as a minister feel appreciated and supported.
Moncton, NB - September 2010
16 pastor couples gathered in Moncton, NB on September 29 – October 1, 2010 for 48 hours of learning, fellowship, and relaxation. Pastors Norm Thomasma and Cecil Van Niejenhuis, along with their spouses, facilitated the event which was held at the Ramada Plaza Crystal Palace. The topic of the event was “Recognizing and Navigating the Small and Big Transitions of Life and Ministry.” Those who participated expressed appreciation and encouragement for their time together—both as a larger group and as couples.
Comments from participants:
• “It was a great source of encouragement in the fact that we’re all experiencing transitions in our life and that
we could draw something of great value from each other.”
• “I liked the relaxed approach – the fun videos, the personal sharing of the speakers, the honesty and
experience of being in ministry.”
• “It was a great time away from work and the busyness of everyday life. The best part was being able to
spend quality time with our spouse.”
• “Many, many thanks for all the thoughts, prayers, organization, etc. We had a wonderful time here in
Moncton, NB. We’ve been blessed.”
Glorieta, NM - November 2009
15 pastor couples gathered on November 9-11, 2009 in Glorieta, NM for fellowship, learning, and refreshment. Pastors Norm Thomasma and Cecil Van Niejenhuis, along with their spouses, facilitated the event which was held at the Glorieta Conference Center. The topic of the event was “Recognizing and Navigating the Small and Big Transitions of Life and Ministry.” Many who attended found great encouragement and support in managing their own transitions through discussion and interaction with one another.
Comments from participants:
• “This has been a great time for my wife and I to connect and reload – thanks!”
• “I have a better understanding of recognizing and managing transitions in life (and that God often shows up
during times of transition).”
• “It was laid back and involved in a way that everyone had opportunities to participate.”
• “Transitions are what we make of them. They are part of our story. We should take those opportunities to
breathe and listen for God’s leading.”
• “Keep doing these events – they are beneficial for pastors and spouses to have a time for group reflection.”
Orlando, FL – January 2009
On January 5-7, 2009, 16 pastor couples gathered in Cocoa Beach, FL for a time of encouragement, learning, and relaxation. Pastors Duane Visser and Norm Thomasma, along with their spouses, facilitated the event which was held at the Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront Hotel. The topic of the event was “Pastor Couples in Parish Ministry: Engaging and Reframing – the art of living large in a fishbowl environment.” For some, this was the first opportunity to meet with other pastor couples in the classis.
Comments from participants:
• “I loved meeting with other couples in ministry – there is such an automatic bond there. We truly enjoyed
each other’s company – made new friends and caught up with some old friends. Also loved the theme –
learn how to relax.”
• “I didn’t really know what to expect going into this conference. I did appreciate the experience and am
glad I went!”
• “Thank you! I came home feeling refreshed and renewed and a vital part of the ministry God has called
me to.”
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