Here’s what attendees have said about their experience at Respite Retreat:

“David & Nancy each have a way of speaking to hard issues in loving, graceful ways. Carefully crafted words and phrases that precisely and gently cut to the heart of issues that much be faced to come out of the valley of the shadow of death.” Daniel, Indiana

“I was a bit apprehensive that the retreat would drag up emotions that would take me back under, and I had low expectations for the food. But the drudging up emotions was cleansing, and the food was wonderful!” Faith, Georgia

“It was such a well thought out time. The structure really made us feel like everything was covered. We didn’t expect to connect with and enjoy time with the other couples as much as we did. That was a lovely surprise and we really feel like we made special friendships that we want to continue.” Sara-Jane, South Africa

 “In the weeks and months preceding the retreat, I had been intentionally not thinking about it.  I was afraid of it, and didn’t want to get cold feet. But I can't imagine enjoying or being blessed by that weekend any more than we were.” Jedidiah, Colorado

“It was sweet to share the common sorrow of a lost child. It was a deeper level than we get with many of our friends on a regular basis.” Debbie, Georgia

 “Committing to attend this weekend was very difficult. My greatest fear pre-conference was that I was not emotionally ready to share my brokenheartedness honestly. What I experienced was a safe, warm, understanding group of likeminded believers to be vulnerable with and, for the first time, feel free to let go just a little.  Sharon, Indiana

“I’ve been afraid to believe it is possible that God can heal my heart. I leave with a bit more faith that he can do that.”

“Grief has been lonely, like nobody gets it. Being here with people struggling but clinging to God helped me not feel so alone.”

“I was afraid it would be heavy and exhausting dredging it all up. I’ve cried, but it hasn’t been heavy; it’s been good.”

"I came in wondering if I could still trust God and I feel like I’m leaving with, ‘“Where else could I place my trust? I’ve exhausted my ideas.”

"This has been good for our marriage. It has enabled us to talk about our grief in a constructive way."

"This has re-calibrated our grief and propelled us forward. We have felt adrift, and this gave us direction. "

"It was great to be able to talk about our son and his death and not feel judged."

“I can't believe the closeness and ease I feel after less than 48 hours together in a situation that could have been so awkward. This is the easiest group situation I've been in since my child died."

“I went to a support group that was me-centered. It is so good to be at something that helps me with the grief that is Christ-centered.”

"My husband and I have taken different routes in our grief and this weekend has brought us back together to common ground."

“This is like the worst summer camp ever, and I still don’t want to go home.”