시더 크레스트 캠프의 환대 코디네이터 매디슨 코시가 제출한 요약 자료
On November 21-23, the first annual Firelight Weekend, a sabbath retreat for TWK clergy and their families took place at Cedar Crest. 11 families spanning from Memphis to Cookeville attended and they spent time together playing, making s’mores, ziplining, canoeing, crafting, and resting. This event was sponsored by the TWK Mental Health Cohort, with imagination and collaboration from TWK Camp and Retreat Ministry staff.
Adults, youth, and children split into breakout sessions that gave each group the opportunity to grow and explore with their peers from other churches. They were able to connect and get to know one another better. Rev. Heather Harriss from Belmont UMC led the adult breakout session, Rev. Darren Mayberry Wright from Connection UMC led the youth session, and Camping Executive Director Russell Casteel led the children’s session.
Also during the weekend, families got to make a quilt square, adding items that represent them, such as photos, drawings, and appliqués. They also got to participate in messy games, competing against each other in face cake decorating and throwing cheeseballs onto a head covered in shaving cream. The weekend was an intentional first step at offering clergy families not only time together but time with other clergy families. Intergenerational play and sabbath was essential to the experience.
Rev. John Hill of Crievewood UMC, went to Firelight with his wife and four children. John offered “Our family had a great time connecting with each other, enjoying the outdoors, and making new relationships at the Firelight Retreat. From riding the zip line to creating a family quilt to messy games, we had a blast! We’re already looking forward to next year.”
Watch this space for Firelight 2026 dates as well as new opportunities for clergy families. Interested in learning more, planning, or connecting with a resource? Contact Russell Casteel
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