God called me to ministry when I was 26. My first pastorate was a small church in a rural, river community in White County, Arkansas. Before I retired from the pastorate at 66, I pastored seven churches in three states. In addition, there were also a few interim pastor experiences.

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A few years ago, while I was still in my late 40’s, a dear friend and a fellow pastor called and asked if he could come spend some time in Montana with me. He wanted to get away and go into the mountains. We spent about three days camping and fishing in the mountains. We talked a lot and shared our burdens with each other and allowed God’s presence to speak to our hearts. As I was taking him to the airport, he asked me if I had ever considered giving other pastors an opportunity to get away and spend time in a peaceful setting where they can hear God speak without all the noise from the demands of life and ministry. In that moment, a vision was born.

The main purpose of Above Paradise Retreat is to provide a place for couples in ministry, who are experiencing burn-out, confusion, or deep hurt, to get away and hear from God. I know from our own experience as pastor and wife that ministry does not always go the way we desire. Ministering to people in this fallen world is not easy, and pastors are not immune to spiritual battles. 

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Our desire is to provide a space for each couple to experience renewal by spending intimate time with God. The reason most of us experience burnout and subsequent fleshly coping mechanisms is because we are trying to do ministry in our strength. Getting away from the everyday responsibilities of life can bring an opportunity to hear from God. His heart is to remind us that He is our strength and power. Through listening to His Word and experiencing the provision of His beautiful creation, we find clarity and direction.

We hope Above Paradise is a blessing to everyone who comes to find rest, reflection, and renewal.

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Blessings!