Merle and Karen Mees led a soul care retreat for our small group, and its impact - years later - continues to be a spiritual marker in my journey with God and others. Merle and Karen shared from their own journey in such a way that made my husband and I feel known and understood. We felt immediately that we were in a safe space to explore where we were with God and with one another. Every detail had been thought of, from the food to the cozy rooms, and of course the soul care content. But what I really carry with me is both of their ability to truly see each attendee and give them permission to be honest about their own spiritual journey. That retreat gave me space to tend to my soul and really notice God in my story. I still use the tools they shared with me and it continues to be a pivotal moment in my life.

Attending the Soul Care Matters retreat was a truly transformative experience. I arrived unsure of what to expect, but was immediately struck by the beauty of the setting and the peaceful atmosphere it created. Sharing the weekend with five other couples fostered a sense of community and connection that was both comforting and enriching. The experiential activities—like selecting a rock that represented my soul and shaping play dough to reflect the current state of my soul—were a lot out of my comfort zone but offered a creative and introspective way to explore my inner life. One of the key elements was the intentional focus on silence, solitude, and sabbath. These themes were not only discussed but gently woven into the rhythm of the retreat, especially during the generous free time that allowed us to truly experience stillness. I left with a renewed appreciation for the importance of caring for my soul—not as a luxury, but as a necessity. A well-cared-for soul, I discovered, is not only more resilient but also more joyful. This retreat was a gift, and its impact continues to unfold in my daily life.