Retreats for Men, Women, and Churches

Retreats are an opportunity to draw away from the distractions of every day life. In a manner that echoes the biblical practice of fasting, a retreat allows us to set our hearts more fully before the Father. The directive of 2 Timothy 2:15 is our guide, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” Lifework Forum retreats include Bible-based presentations, directed devotional materials, and ample time for discussion.

The following list of topics is only a sample of what the Lovelaces have presented. Curt and Sandra are open to consider any areas for future retreats. Contact them to discuss any ideas and/or invitations.

Retreats for Men

Leadership in the Home and Church

A study in the Epistle to Titus. We look at qualifications and preparation for the leadership role God has assigned to Christian men. We also discuss practical application.

What Does it Mean to Be a Man in 21st century America

A look at the history of “manhood” in American history and culture. Biblical examples and guidelines will be discussed.

What Am I Doing Here?

Trying to get a handle on why God has placed us where He has – and what we’re supposed to do here – can be a daunting task. What gets in the way of our understanding are the culture in which we live, our own sinfulness, and simply not going to the right source to find out what God says about these topics.

Common Church Culture – and How to Combat It

This is not a retreat about church and culture. We are not looking primarily at how we deal with the culture outside the church doors, although that will come into the discussion. Our overall goal for the retreat will be to figure out what our own church cultures are; what they are supposed to be; and what we, as the men of the church, need to be and do to affect positively the culture of our congregations.

Revival

A study of revival in the Bible and in history. We will ask such questions as: “What is Revival?” “Is it a good thing?” “How Do They Get Started?” “Can We Schedule One?” We will discuss both personal and corporate revival.

Headship, Submission and Other Hard Stuff From the Bible

A series of talks for Christian men regarding their roles in the church and the family. We explore what the Bible tells us about not only our roles, but the balance between those roles. Titles include “Be a Man (of God),” “Be THE Man,” and “Be Her Man.”

What in The World Am I Doing Here?

We all remember the phrase “finding ourselves.” Especially in the 1960s and ’70s (but still today, as well), people would check out of life in general and tell people they were trying to “find themselves.” Some ran off to communes; some just got stoned and pretty much stayed that way; some turned to religion. For those who weren’t just using this concept as an excuse to drop out, there were some serious issues involved. In a sense, they were or are asking the same questions we all ought to consider: Who am I? What am I doing here? What am I supposed to be doing?

Retreats for Women

Why Should I?

There is a clashing conflict over the definition of submission between the world and the Word. Sandra will address the comparisons as she presents the biblical perspective on obedience, a vital role for the Christian woman. This topic is not for the faint of heart. It can be instrumental in building a solid foundation for a life filled with peace and confidence. (available in 3 sessions with 1 hour of personal reflection)

What’s it all About?

Pursuing the Christian life in the midst of a fallen world is filled with challenges. In this three part retreat format Sandra addresses the basic issues outlined in Scripture for running the race with victory. She presents information and insights on a personal, congregational and community level. (available in 3 sessions with 1 hour of personal reflection)

For Such a Time as This . . .

Sandra offers a meaningful look at the life of Esther. A review of her world, her behavior, and what transpired as it compares to our world, our behavior and what we can expect to transpire will be offered. Be prepared to consider and challenge old habits in light of the the time in which God has placed us. (available in 3 sessions with 1 hour of personal reflection)

The Rescuer

To whom do you appeal when you’re facing a risky situation? Do you react out of your feelings or respond in a measured way? Sandra will consider these and related questions as she offers ladies encouragement to put God’s precepts into practice. (available in 3 sessions with 1 hour of personal reflection)

Miss Fix-it

Sandra has tracked the whereabouts of Miss Fix-it across continents. During this retreat time ladies will learn about the internal dynamic that drives us to act in unhealthy and disruptive directions. They will also be introduced to Miss God-ward who seeks first the things of the Lord. Ample time will be given to share personal struggles and biblical wisdom. (available in 3 sessions with 1 hour of personal reflection)

The Scepter

The Bible uses the scepter as a symbol of authority. Xerxes was a daunting king to approach in his throne room yet Esther made her way in the face of great peril. Sandra will examine the details of this unfolding scenario to consider the ways we approach the heavenly Throne of Grace. (available in 3 sessions with 1 hour of personal reflection)

Servant or Slave?

Scripture has a lot to say about these related terms. Sandra will take the gathered ladies on a walk through a collection of Old and New Testament references. The result will be a better understanding of who we are before God and what He expects of us in the days ahead. (available in 3 sessions with 1 hour of personal reflection)

God’s Design for Women

Sandra outlines the results of some deep study under her husband’s headship on a woman’s value and role. Genesis, Titus and Ephesians lend their God-breathed truth in responding to the current cultural quandary on these topics. The conclusions will be well worth the challenge. (available in 3 sessions with 1 hour of personal reflection)

Retreats for Churches

Angels in the Pews

The Lovelaces have diligently searched the Scriptures on the topic of families in corporate worship. Two generations of family experience as well as more than 30 years in ministry have allowed them to hone their perspective and develop a plethora of insights and strategies. Curt and Sandra will provide generous amounts of information and encouragement as well as opportunities for parents to share their questions and concerns.

The Seven ‘Cs” of Christian Leadership

You were called. You’re a Christian, a saint. What’s your job? Service to God through service to man. What’s that called? Leadership! These sessions will be discussions of seven characteristics of true Christian leadership for both men and women in their proper positions within the church.