A group of Certified Lay Ministers recently gathered at Wesley Forest for 24 hours of rest, reflection, laughter, creativity, prayer, and connection. Led by Beth Jones, we moved through exercises and creative practices that helped each of us think about what healthy self-care can look like in our own lives and ministries.

One of the gifts of the retreat was simply having permission to slow down. We spent time in nature, shared stories, prayed, created, rested, and enjoyed being together. In the middle of busy lives and ministry responsibilities, that kind of space matters.

We were reminded that caring for our mental and emotional health is not separate from our spiritual life. Healthy self-care helps us notice when we are tired, overwhelmed, disconnected, or carrying too much. Prayerful and creative practices can help us stay grounded, make room for God, and keep our focus centered on Jesus.

We also learned again that we are not meant to do this work alone. We need community. We need people who understand the joys and challenges of ministry and who can walk beside us with encouragement, prayer, and grace.

At Wesley Forest, we found all of that: connection to nature, connection to God, and connection to one another. We left grateful, refreshed, and reminded that caring for ourselves is part of how we remain healthy and present for the people God calls us to serve.