November 2022 Retreat
If you are reading this, you have been sent an early access link
I’m sure you have had to make some brave decisions along your journey. Standing at the crossroads, stepping over a new threshold, or planting a flag on your highest peak - these things all require equal parts courage and wisdom. It does not take too long for most of us to realise that good principles and smart thinking is not enough. God is our only hope, and I believe that He has an appointment with you, in the veld.
It is with this heart that we started the Higher Ground Christian men’s retreat experience seven years ago. For the pragmatic, rest assured that you will have ample opportunity to consider whether the strategies and ways that got you to this point, will get you to the place you deeply long to go. But this is first and foremost a time of complete unplugging - nearly four days of connection with Jesus that is not broken by the usual busy-ness. Connection with the wild landscape of the farm, with other guys, with yourself. A time of communion, healing, and restoration - good for everything that ails us. Especially now.
We believe that God has prepared this place for each of us beforehand. It may sound childlike and maybe even a little naive, but in this, He delights. Maybe life is not something to figure out, as much as it is something to open up to?
But you will need to come and answer these questions for yourself. We would love you to come and join us around the fire.
If you would like to discover what other men have experienced at Higher Ground, be sure to read the journal. Or just click join us to sign up.
Love,
Team Higher Ground
How it works
The retreat takes place on a game farm situated in the mountainous terrain to the north of Wellington, South Africa. We have access to the entire reserve as a wild playground for us to enjoy. The rugged beauty of the farm provides an ideal place to reflect. If you run or cycle, bring your kit. Or just your walking shoes. Whilst the location is remote, we are fully equipped with lapa accommodation, electricity, hot water and refrigeration. Your digs will be in two-sleeper bungalows – all bedding and towels provided.
From the outset, we have wanted meal times to be very special occasions at Higher Ground. In addition to breakfasts and lunches, we braai every evening. This is a highlight, as the farm butchery is able to supply us with fresh produce. If you prefer not to eat meat, there are a number of other retreats we can recommend. Just kidding, of course! We are happy to accommodate your preferences as far as possible - please let us know when you reserve your spot.
Please trust us when we say that time away from your digital devices is paramount. We will provide a number where you can be reached in an emergency so that you can switch your phone off, or, better yet, leave it at home.
We run the retreats at cost + 10%, which is ploughed back into a kitty to keep our gear in good working order. Everybody you encounter will be volunteering their time.
Please note that you will be receiving an invitation to complete the Heartstyles Indicator survey in the month leading up to the retreat. This process will also require that you ask three people who know you well to provide you some feedback.
Lastly, but probably the most important thing you may not yet be aware of: We have a team of intercessors who will be praying for you leading up to, during and after the retreat. They request your first names only, and we provide them with no other information. We may receive specific messages from them during our time away, which we will share with you.
ACCOMMODATION
Bontebok Ridge Reserve near Wellington, South Africa
DATE
16 - 20 November 2022
COST
R 4400 (includes retreat accommodation, all meals + snacks, the Heartstyles Indicator, workbooks and materials)
To secure your space, please send us confirmation of deposit (50% of your retreat fee - R 2200)
Bank details
Imagine Investments (Pty) Ltd, Standard Bank, Blue Route Branch 025 609, Account Number 070941238
We followed steep paths up the crags and planted flags of courage, of commitment and rekindled trust. Carefully woven fig leaves were relinquished to the fire — garments fashioned over many decades to keep us safe (and make us look good). We cannot summon the lightning, or conjure the presence we so long for. But we can surrender, betting the whole farm on His love for us.