I know that I don't need to convince youth workers of the importance of personal retreat or do I?  One of the things that I enjoy about the B.C. is the opportunity for personal retreat.  We are constantly planning, preparing for and guiding retreats, conferences, missions, service opportunities, Bible studies, meetings, scavenger hunts and lets not forget the games.  So when do we take time for personal retreat?  I have to be honest even asking that question makes me feel selfish and self serving.  But over the years I have been encouraged by men, who I consider mentors, to make sure I take time out for personal retreat.  When I first considered personal retreat I envisioned a place where I could get away from others and have quiet meditation and personal bible study.   A place where I did not have to think about students, trips, meetings, parents, elders or staff.  All that sounds great and at particular times of my life in ministry needed but for the most part I need to be around people of like mindedness just to make sure I am not going off the deep end.  Face it youth ministry is different and not like any other ministry in the church.  We need each other.  We need each other for personal retreat and reflection about our life's calling.    

The Barnabas Connection provides an environment where personal retreat can happen while being connected to others and encouraged by God's Word and His people.  I hope you will join us this year in Atlanta and be part of the new beginnings of the Barnabas Connection.