The apostles then rendezvoused with Jesus and reported on all that they had done and taught. Jesus said, "Come off by yourselves; let's take a break and get a little rest." For there was constant coming and going. They didn't even have time to eat. So they got in the boat and went off to a remote place by themselves. -- Mark 6:30-32 "The Message"

In February, Crossroads and Northridge went together to Rock Springs 4-H Center in North-Central Kansas for a Jr. High retreat. The junior high students along with their youth workers retreated together for two nights of cold, wet fun! We played games, laughed hard, sang songs, and had times of solitude and prayer. We require students to leave cell phones and IPods and blackberries and blueberries at home. The blessing and spiritual fruit for our youth group and church for taking such a spiritual retreat is tremendous.    

As adults it is easy to forget the need for retreat. We have the same need (if not significantly greater) as the youth we minister to for intentional spiritual rest. No one denies that our culture is one of noise, chaos, and frenzy. What better way to disengage from the culture and to reengage in intimacy with God than a spiritual retreat! So get your small group or friends together and organize a weekend retreat or head on out alone to a remote place to “take a break and get a little rest.”

- Adam Monaghan