Spurgeon Sabbatical
Purpose
The purpose of the Spurgeon Sabbatical for Pastors is to offer renewal for those who are called to carry the 'weight of souls.' The conviction that drives the Spurgeon Sabbatical is that the best way to gain new perspectives and power for the pastoral ministry is through serious study of the Scriptures within a community context of worship, prayer, discussion and fellowship. If you are interested in such a 'counter-cultural' pastor's retreat, we invite you to come away this summer with a small group of pastors for an intense time of study, worship, reflection, prayer and conversation about what it means in our day and age to "exhaust our lives for Jesus."
Community
The community begins and ends each day with worship. In between you will join with the other pastors to strengthen community - gathering for times around the table, times at play and times of hearty conversation. This is an excellent opportunity to be renewed and to gain new perspective on your ministry.
Leader
Dr. Scott Hafemann teaches at the University of St. Andrews in the School of Divinity as a Reader in New Testament. He served on the Gordon-Conwell faculty as the Mary French Rockefeller Professor of New Testament from 2005-2011. From 1995-2004, he was the Gerald F. Hawthorne Professor of New Testament Greek and Exegesis at Wheaton College. He is loved by students for his passion for the Word of God and his ability to communicate it with clarity.
Cost
The cost is $750.00 and includes: program, meals on campus for ten days (Monday supper through Thursday breakfast) and two textbooks (these will be mailed to you prior to the retreat). The cost does not include housing, travel to and from Gordon-Conwell, or any non-programed events (i.e. day trips or dining off-campus). A $200 minimum deposit is required.
"It was the best continuing education event that I have attended in 28 years of ministry. Scott Hafemann was well prepared both as a professor and as a pastor's pastor. His words affirmed me (and the group) as pastors."
"What I did not expect was how tight and close the community would become. I think this is the added bonus. Not only do I have resources that will preach, I have twelve new brothers in the faith!"
"Dr. Hafemann is a 'pastor to pastors.' He taught, listened, interacted and shepherded us in ways that affirmed our ministries and strengthened us for our ministry situations."
Registration
Registration for the 2012 Spurgeon Sabbatical is full. If you would like to be put on the waiting list, please call 1-800-294-2774 or email ockenga@gcts.edu.
