After a number of active exercises, you could then move to a more reflective aspect of the retreat. There is often value in having people write for ten minutes without interruption on a specific topic.
For ten minutes write on the topic, how has been being a member of a pastor’s family affected my friendships?
For ten minutes, write about what you would like to tell God about how it feels to be a member of a pastor’s family.
For ten minutes, write about what you admire about the pastor and his or her work in the church.
For ten minutes, write about how growing up in a pastor’s family has affected what you want to do in your life.
For ten minutes, write on this subject. If you could send an anonymous message to the congregation about how they treat the pastor, what would you want to say?
Pick out two or three of these, and after each ten minute writing session, have the people share what they have written. If there is a large group, you might have to do that in small groups with a facilitator.
You might also do an anonymous advice session. Have people write out a question about how to handle a certain situation and then let the whole group develop a group answer.
The mixture of active exercises and more reflective activities can provide a balance for the retreat. Recognize that this may be one of the first times that some of these youth have had a chance to share their feelings about being part of a minister’s family. You need to have some leaders present who are prepared to assist in a supportive way those who might become emotional in sharing. Be careful not to have any of the leaders become defensive about what is being said. It needs to be clear from the beginning that nothing that individuals say at the meeting will be shared with others. If the group agrees, there might be some value in sharing general statements that cannot be traced back to an individual.
Play with the design. I would be glad to hear of new ideas that you have.
