Practical Tools for Thriving Church Leadership – January 2026 in Carefree, AZ

  • Executive Skills for Church Leaders: January 5–9, 2026

  • Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center, Carefree, AZ

Pastors, deacons, bishops, synod staff, and church leaders are invited to a week of continuing education and renewal at Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center in Carefree, Arizona, January 5–9, 2026 (with optional check-in on Sunday, January 4).

Hosted by the Thriving Leadership Formation Program of Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary and facilitated by Desta Goehner, this retreat brings together expert faculty and ministry practitioners for a week of transformative learning and spiritual refreshment.

Each day focuses on a key leadership area with a different facilitator:

  • Thriving in a Hybrid Ministry World – Practical tools for supervision, delegation, and relationship-building with Felecia Boone.

  • AI in Ministry – Responsible, hands-on strategies for worship prep, communication, and administration with Justin Barkhuff.

  • The Empowered Shepherd – Tools and tactics for congregational vitality and trauma-informed leadership with Carla Christopher.

  • Strategic Communication & Growth – Building sustainable plans for social media and newsletters with Catherine Slabaugh.

The retreat is designed to equip leaders with real-world tools that can be adapted immediately for ministry contexts. Participants will gain strategies for collaboration, accountability, and effective communication while engaging with peers in meaningful conversation and reflection.

Cost per participant includes five days of programming, five nights lodging, and 13 meals:

  • $1,300 (private room)

  • $1,050 (two in a room)

  • $850 (three in a room)

  • $750 (four in a room)

  • $725 (commuter option, includes program, lunches, dinners, snacks)

Register today: Spirit in the Desert Executive Skills Retreat

Download the poster: Executive Skills Retreat 2026 PDF

This retreat offers not only skills and strategies, but also sacred time in the Arizona desert for renewal, reflection, and the Spirit’s guidance in leadership.

Grand Canyon Synod, Leader Resources, NewsBrian FlatgardSpirit in the Desert Retreat Center, Thriving Leadership Formation ProgramComment