Find Renewal and Connection with Thriving Leadership Formation This Fall and Winter
As church leaders enter one of the busiest seasons of the year, Thriving Leadership Formation (TLF) invites you to pause, connect, and grow through a range of offerings designed to sustain your spirit and strengthen your ministry.
Whether you’re seeking a moment of quiet reflection, deeper leadership insight, or renewal in your pastoral identity, these opportunities create space for grace and growth in community.
Executive Skills for Church Leaders
📅 January 5–9, 2026
📍 Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center — Carefree, AZ
Learn more and register here ›
Join pastors, deacons, and church leaders from across the ELCA for a transformative weeklong retreat that blends practical leadership development with spiritual renewal.
Participants gain tools for navigating the complexities of congregational life while rediscovering confidence and joy in their call.
The program includes five days of learning and reflection, comfortable lodging, nutritious meals, and time to rest in the beauty of the desert surroundings.
Space is limited—early registration is encouraged.
“I found a confidence both in the skills gained and in the pastoral identity I was able to re-capture… an opportunity to rediscover a voice that felt diminished and lost.”
— 2025 Executive Skills Participant
Enneagram in Ministry: The Panels
📅 Wednesdays this fall | 1:30–3:30 p.m. PST
Explore the nine Enneagram types and their leadership expressions in ministry. Each two-hour workshop includes expert teaching from Desta Goehner, an International Enneagram Association Accredited Professional, followed by a panel of leaders and real-life case study discussions.
Choose one session or join them all as you deepen your understanding of yourself and others in ministry.
Spiritual Practice in Community
📅 Mondays this fall — October 20, November 17, December 15
🕕 6:00–7:30 p.m. PST | 7:00–8:30 p.m. MST
Each monthly gathering offers space to encounter new voices and spiritual practices. Guest leaders guide participants through reflection, prayer, and creative engagement with Scripture and tradition. Attend one or all.
Lectio Divina
📅 Tuesdays | 9:00–10:00 a.m. PST
Join a community of preachers and church leaders each week to read sacred text slowly and prayerfully. This shared practice strengthens preaching, deepens listening, and reminds us that God’s Word meets us anew every time we gather.
A Word from the TLF Team
“We know ministry can feel full—especially in this season. Our offerings are designed to give you space to breathe, learn, and rediscover joy in your call.”
— Desta, Nicolette & Amanda, Thriving Leadership Formation Team
