HOME > Retreats

Retreats

Some churches request Tom to speak for a retreat for their worship ministry, men’s group or their entire church. Typically, although not always, it is a larger church simply because of the expenses involved. Tom accepts a very limited number of these requests.

Each retreat in which Tom is involved is tailored for the group and situation. Discussions with the person in charge are essential to find out the scope and goals of the retreat, as well as the background and history of the people involved.

There are two prerequisites for Tom considering speaking for a retreat. First, the retreat must be held at a location away from the church that facilitates overnight lodging. There is a dynamic that occurs in an overnight setting that usually cannot be achieved while staying at home.

Second, there must be time for fun interaction. In other words, the retreat cannot be all just “spiritual stuff.” This is because a dynamic occurs in relationships when we focus on the truth of God’s Word while also interacting with one another in a fun-filled way. Relationships take on new meaning and depth.

For a typical day-and-a-half retreat, we request an honorarium of at least $2000* plus expenses (travel, meals, and lodging).

For more information or to discuss your specific situation, please feel free to contact our office.


*Some have asked why we request a minimum honorarium. First, it should be understood that the money does not go directly to Tom. We have a dedicated board of directors for the ministry and they set his salary. However, the ministry has other ongoing expenses. Obvious things include telephone, computers, postage, office supplies, etc. Along with these there are other expenses such as the salaries of our part-time bookkeeper and part-time office manager (maintains our mailing list and coordinates the details for all of Tom’s teaching events). The vast majority of the income from this ministry comes from Tom’s teaching. Whether he does a retreat, a seminar, a conference or just a single service, the ongoing expenses are still there. Therefore the requested honorarium (plus travel and meal/lodging expenses) make it possible for us to maintain the ministry over the long term.