The Impact

Testimonials from pastors who have been to a Rural Pastors Retreat. Hear what they have to say about their experience.

The Rural Pastors Retreat was by far the best retreat we’ve been to in all of our years of ministry. The small group setting was intimate, so we got to know other couples in the same place in ministry that we are, we got lots of one-on-one time with Denny and other staff to pick their brains as far as what they’ve tried, what worked, what didn’t, etc. The pampering was amazing, we truly felt refreshed and ready to go home and bring vision and excellence back to our church and leadership. Words can’t express how Denny’s testimony of his early years and his faith walk inspired me and encouraged us as a couple. We left inspired, refreshed and renewed. Thank you all for the amazing experience! We highly recommend this retreat for anyone in ministry!

Pastor Ryan Stockstrom | Frazee, MN

After our time at Rural Pastor’s retreat, my wife and I came home with a new sense of energy and purpose for our church ministry.  I can hardly imagine a more impactful week and a better investment for a church to make.  Through this week, we were able to better clarify and articulate the vision that God has given us for our church, and we received training and tools that will help in the process of implementing that vision. Along with the training and ministry tools, Rural Pastor’s retreat was an amazing opportunity to refresh and recharge in a relaxing setting.  The friendships we gained from the other pastors and the personal investment that Pastor Denny and his team made in our lives is something we will never forget.  This retreat is certainly the most beneficial training/retreat/seminar I have ever participated in, and we are so glad we went.  Don’t miss your opportunity to be a part of it.

Pastor Paul Risdall   |   Delano, MN

We are extremely thankful for the opportunity to participate in the Rural Pastors Retreat hosted by River of Life Assembly!  The Lord used this retreat to help us dream again, to reconnect to His vision and calling for us, and renew our strength for the task ahead.  The staff and volunteers from ROL not only facilitated this, but they made sure every detail was done with excellence and communicated their genuine care for those attending.  The setting, the schedule, the material, the interactions...it was inspiring and exactly what we needed.  We not only had tools put in our hands, but we were able to see what we were learning demonstrated by Pastor Denny and his team firsthand.  In all honesty, it was one of the most important conferences/retreats--if not THE most important--we've attended.

Pastor Chad Spinler   |   Otsego, MN

After attending the Rural Pastor’s Conference, I returned to the rural area God has called us to reach and felt like we were seeing it with new eyes. This conference greatly helped to clarify our vision for the church and the tremendous opportunities before us in our community.

Moreover, we acquired practical tools and ideas for implementing the vision and our church has directly benefited as a result. The Rural Pastor’s Conference has proved to be the most helpful ministry training and equipping conference I have attended. Don’t pass up an opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Pastor Dave Savage   |   Mountain Lake, MN

This conference provided two important things that are vital to a thriving rural ministry. First of all, it provided me a network of friends who I can call, pray, & relate to. This conference created a place where life long friendships are formed. After the Summit I finally have a network of friends that understand the ministry I'm in and the challenges I face.  Secondly, it provided me practical tools and reminders from a mentor with years of experience. The problem with most conferences, retreats, & seminars is that most are geared to larger city churches. Principles are gleaned but at the end a lot of the stuff they cover has no relevance to rural ministry. This summit is a one of kind retreat that provides relevant and applicable material to leaders pastoring in rural communities. 
This conference inspired me through Pastor Denny's life that being faithful to the call we can see growing, thriving, and healthy churches in rural areas that are transforming cities and making disciples.

Pastor Steve Ekholm   |   Mora, MN