ORLANDO, Florida — More than 300 gathered for a Pastors and Wives Retreat hosted by the Florida Baptist Convention.

Stephen Rummage, executive director-treasurer for the convention, and his wife, Michele, facilitated the retreat designed as a restful and encouraging three-day stay.

“I always say that our mission together flows out of our fellowship. We want you to take time to enjoy one another, to enjoy your spouse, and to enjoy your friends who are here,” said Rummage before the attendees. “We’re going to be talking about strength for today and hope for tomorrow. That’s our theme along the way, how God gives us strength for today and hope for tomorrow.”

Sharing from Lamentations 3, Rummage shared from the third chapter about the mercy of God that keeps us, the faithfulness of God that meets us and the hope that sustains us. 

As pastors and wives, Rummage reminded them that it’s easy to place hope in the wrong things, whether at church or at home. Day by day “the Lord wants to teach us that he alone is our portion.” 

Along with discussions and devotions led by the Rummages, Herb Reavis, pastor of North Jax Baptist Church, and his wife, Lisa, also encouraged attendees, reflecting on their need for God’s power in their lives. 

“If I was going to bear fruit in ministry and if I was going to last over the years, it would not be by my human power, my human finesse or my human charisma. It would be with the power of God,” said Reavis. “The desire of my heart was and is that I might experience the power of God in my life. That’s where I get strength for today: the power of God.”

Christian Ramos, lead worship pastor at Family Church in South Florida, led in singing throughout the retreat.

“This weekend was just another example of refreshment and rest and recovery,” said Joe Mira, lead pastor at First Baptist of Cutler Ridge. “Being able to see brothers and sisters in Christ who are in similar situations, praying for each other, getting to know other people, and meeting some of the people that we do ministry with in Miami, but never get to see, is why we enjoy attending.” 

Though there were large plenary sessions, the schedule allowed ample room for relaxation over the three days. 

“The Pastors and Wives Retreat is very meaningful to me,” expressed Vilnet Vilse, pastor at Bethlehem Haitian Church. “I thank God for Dr. Rummage and his wife for bringing us together at this time. This is the moment that we really need it.”

As the convention continues to equip and encourage pastors, it is making plans for similar retreats in the years ahead.”