What is a Vision Defining Retreat?

The Vision Defining Retreat (VDR) is a dedicated time away from the church where church leaders meet under the guidance of a trained Facilitator to refine, hone, and develop the vision of the church. It will focus on Scriptural principles of redemption, mission, mandate, involvement, and leadership, and will be tailored to each church's situation, circumstances, and distinctives.

It was developed as a visioning event in 1981 during Dr. Hallett's last pastorate, and proved to be very successful with ministry implications that exceeded everyone's expectations. It has been updated frequently since then to ensure that it stays current for today's trends in churches. The VDR has helped many churches to define their mission, develop their vision, steer them down the path to effective ministry, and revitalize them for further Kingdom work as they fulfill the Great Commission in their local communities.

Some churches use this VDR when considering any improvements to its facilities (whether renovation, addition, relocation, or debt retirement). It can also be used as an optional part of the VisionBudget™ process, as described on the www.Vision-Budget.com website.

In addition, it may be used as a stand alone event. It is important in the normal operations of the church to help keep the church focused on its primary ministry objectives in an ever-changing world. It can also be used when a church is not unified nor in full agreement about its vision and primary purpose for serving in its own community, especially when there are multiple ways to accomplish the same goals. It is not intended to resolve major church problems.

The VDR is designed to assist the church to go beyond general statements of mission that have no practical impact upon the congregation. Instead, it will help the church to discover and develop the Mission Mandate that God has assigned to it. It is also designed to focus the energies of the congregation on its Focused Vision once it is developed soon after the VDR, and to encourage willing support of its vision.

Contact the TLC office to learn more about this dynamic, spirit-filled, engaging, and one-of-a kind experience of deep worship and fellowship. See for yourself how it will create a sense of ownership among the church leaders like little else can. Hear the heartbeat of these church leaders who have experienced a VDR for their own churches:

"It [the VDR] was not only very productive, but also a very Spirit-led time. As Rev. Hallett led us through the vision defining process, we also shared in prayer, singing, devotions, testimonies, and extraordinary fellowship. It might as well be described as a weekend of worship." – Rev. Bob Pavey, Wesleyan Church

"This retreat was one of the most significant leadership 'moments' in my three years as pastor here... Together, Bob led us in a process whereby we listened to the Holy Spirit as we considered His call on our lives. Our time together was highlighted with fellowship, laughter, prayer, testimonies, tears, worship, Bible studies, sharing, and seeking God about the future of our church. Ultimately, the results went far beyond Bob's excellent leadership... What makes Bob Hallett such an effective servant-leader is His love for Jesus, his Biblical approach, and his humble spirit. He directs without dictating, inspires without imposing, challenges without chastising." – Rev. Mark Ellcessor, United Methodist Church

"I think we grew as a church family and I feel we finally have some direction... The worship music, devotionals, and testimonies add so much and you do a wonderful job of pulling in those who sometimes sit on the sidelines... God's presence was so sweet and so strong during the whole weekend. From the first song we sang to the last Amen, it was an enriching experience. Even though I was kept pretty busy [as VDR Secretary], God still spoke to my heart. His Spirit revealed things to me in such a quiet and yet vital way that I came away with a new sense of purpose and a new passion to see things happen and to be a part of it." – Judy Riley, board member, Wesleyan Church

Judy Riley

Greenfield, Indiana

What is a Vision Defining Retreat?