Heart and Soul Connection Newsletter A Lifeline for Ministry Wives

HeartLines Newsletter October 2009 In This Issue Book Corner "Be Still" Retreat Come Away or Fall Apart For Your Funny Bone... Dear Nancy,   I am SO grateful for the wonderful opportunity God gives me and my ministry to come alongside you -- to pray for you, love you, encourage you, and help you. I cannot express how much who you are and what you do for God and His Kingdom's work mean to me. You are VERY inspiring!!   It was an awesome experience to be able to meet so many of you at the last two Timothy + Barnabas Pastors & Wives Retreats. If you have never attended one, please check out their website,   www.timothybarnabas.org. Timothy + Barnabas is a ministry of First Baptist Church Woodstock, GA. Pastors and their wives come from all over the country - and some come from other countries! These pastors' schools  are usually in middle September.   One other IMPORTANT bit of news, the deadline to send your deposit in for the Be Still Retreat has been extended until December 1. We will take reservations for the retreat until February 1.    I love you so much, Nancy nancy@HeartandSoulConnection.com                      Counsel for Pastors' Wives                                          by Diane Langberg     This book could have been entitled, "Fourteen Frequently Asked Questions by Pastors' Wives." The book is based on fourteen letters of concern written by wives of pastors to a Christian counselor, Diane Langberg. Diane provides prayerful and sound counsel that addresses the hurts of pastors' wives.   For many pastoral couples, the challenge of pastoring is one of survival. High expectations about the opportunity to provide pastoral leadership and Christian ministry in a congregational setting too often turns to disillusionment and discouragement. Can the experiences really be changed into a positive ministry with real fulfillment? The author believes that is possible and, in general terms, address the "how" of accomplishing that goal.   Diane believes that the underlying cause for the multitude of pastors leaving pastoral ministry centers on two critical issues - marriage/family difficulties and burnout.   Beginning as early as their days of seminary or Bible college training, the encouragement and reward of putting ministry ahead of family causes "severe neglect of the family" by pastors and a seemingly irresolvable conflict over priorities. Diane believes that "one of the most important assets in an effective ministry is a healthy and strong marriage." She also connects difficulties in marriage with the growing tendency towards burnout. Her call is clear. Neglect of marriage and family results in devastation instead of achievement.   Once she addresses the ability to survive the pastorate, her attention turns to those practical questions that relate to everything from congregational ties to practical ways of dealing with physical, spiritual and emotional issues in the family. She is very willing to address tough issues that every couple faces, such as friendship with congregates, as well as some issues that we pray no couple has to face, like recovering from an affair.   This is a very practical book that is willing to address those questions that others seem to be unwilling to mention. This book can help provide keen insight into those questions that you always wanted to ask. Diane's responses will provide good material for those reflective moments when you face challenges as a pastoral couple. You may just find yourself returning to a chapter that you read earlier just so you can refresh your insight into a particularly pertinent issue. It is good counsel.                 "Be Still" Retreat for Ministry Wives   March 11-13, 2010     Stone Mountain Park Inn Stone Mountain, Georgia      Special Guest:   Esther Burroughs Worship Leader: Kaye Hurta   Cost?   For private room - $ 285  For 2 in a room - $210  For 3 in a room - $190                                 For 4 in a room -  $170                           For Fri-Sat only - $110    Cost includes 2 nights lodging, 2 continental breakfasts, a lunch buffet, a seafood dinner buffet (including all you can eat crab legs!), all break and snack food, conference fee, and entrance fee to Stone Mountain Park.   Deposit of $75 is due by December 1. Balance is due in 2 other payments due January 15 and February 15. We will take reservations until February 1. You can register by emailing Nancy Burgess at nancy@heartandsoulconnection.com or call 1-888-646-9433.     Come Away or Fall Apart by Alan Heller   Why Go?   To gain objectivity. Moving away from the ever-present pressures of ministry will allow you to view your life more rationally, giving yourself some emotional breathing room.   To get God's perspective. With undisturbed periods of time to be alone with the Lord, you will be able to view yourself and your ministry as He does.   To meditate on Scripture, for often the pressures of daily ministry don't allow you the freedom for extended times of personal study of God's Word.   For some healthy introspection on the strengths and weaknesses of your life and ministry, and time for planning future action steps.   To renew your energy physically, emotionally and spiritually.   For fun and recreation.   I met Cal Huge in the living room of the Inn, a retreat center where we were attending Train to Reign, a program for spiritually depleted pastors and their families. He had been responsible for hundreds of people in an international ministry, and the two-year calendar he carried in his Day-Timer had felt like a thousand-pound weight on his head. When I said hello, he didn't look up. He only stared at the floor and rocked in his rocking chair.   A couple of days later, as we sifted soil through a screen in the center's garden, Cal remarked, "It feels so good to do something that takes no mental effort."   Twelve weeks later, I watched him play basketball with his teenage boys, hold hands with his wife, smile and engage in meaningful conversations. He wasn't totally out of the woods, but was nearing the edge. After the program was over, Cal spent a short stint working part time at a local high school, then nine years as headmaster of a large Christian school.   Today he is waiting for God's next assignment, "Too often leaders use the tools of the world to grow their church [not the Lord's]," Cal says. "We talk about how we are out doing great things for God. I did! Yet it's rather arrogant to think that He needs us. What the time at the Inn really showed me was that God did not care what I did for Him. Rather He cared who I was and what I was to become. Was I to become more like Jesus, or just do lots of stuff?"   The Inn Cal refers to is actually Christian Training Center International (CTCI) in Franklin, N. C., founded in the early '70s by Jay and Sally Fesperman as the Inn of the Last Resort. Group interaction, messages, devotional times, physical labor and recreation under the loving direction of Fesperman (now deceased) and Larry Pons changed Cal's life.   Some retreat centers, such as CTCI, offer structured programs designed for pastoral couples or families in crisis, when immediate change must occur for the sake of both the church and the individuals involved. Whether a pastor has failed morally, feels burned out or can no longer function in his ministry position, counseling is built into the program to help in the healing process. Often, trained counselors and psychologists are available to provide additional guidance and treatment.   Where to Go to Get Away   Getaways with no programs:   The Escape House Rob and Debbie Killeffer 192 West St. Braintree, MA 02184 (781) 356-8286   Camp Berachah Ministries Steve Altick 19830 SE 328 th Place Auburn, WA 98092 (253) 939-0488 www.berachahcamp.org   Harvest Prayer Center Carl and Gayla Royer 11991 E. Davis Ave. Brazil, IN 47834 (812) 443-5703 www.harvestprayer.com   Retreat centers with optional light counseling:   Mountain Top Retreat Len Bauer 13705 Cottonwood Canyon Dr. Bozeman, MT 59718 (406) 763-4566 www.mountaintopretreat.org   America's Keswick Bill Welte 601 Route 530 Whiting, NJ 08759 (732) 350-1187 www.americaskeswick.org   SonScape Larry Magnuson, Roy Fitzwater P.O. Box 7777 Woodland Park, CO 80866 (888) 766-7227, (719) 687-7007 www.sonscape.com   Facilities offering intensive counseling:   Fairhaven Ministries Cal Swanson 2198 Roaring Creek Road Roan Mountain, TN 37687 (423) 772-4269 www.fairhaven1.com   Mountain Learning Center Russell and Kandy Veenker P.O. Box 625 June Lake, CA 93529 (800) 293-2508, (760) 648-7060 www.pastor-care.com   The Marriage Retreat Forrest Mobley 4421 Commons Drive E PMB 404 Destin, FL 32541 (850) 650-8000   For a comprehensive list of retreat/renewal centers around the country for ministers, visit parsonage.org/care/ministries.   On the other end of the spectrum, settings like Living Water Worship and Teaching Center in Cottonwood, Ariz., invite ministers to simply get away and unhinge from the pressures of ministry. Whether you want to hike, sit by a fire, fish or swim, or enjoy the scenery, room and board is provided, but you set your own schedule and pace for your stay.   Other retreats offer varying combinations of structure and leisure with counsel. Depending on your situation, you determine the right place for you and your family.   Getting There   Sometimes caring individuals, such as church board members or relatives, may insist we take a respite because our lives are spinning out of control. Bob and Sandy Sewell, founders of SonScape Re-Creation Ministries, a retreat center in Southern Colorado, call this out-of-control feeling the "overwhelmings." A focus of their center, in addition to providing time for reflection and relaxation, is to help pastors and families learn what they call the "holy rhythm of life."   The SonScape staff makes fun activities a priority in the prevention of burnout. They recognize the need for work, play, rest and worship, and they stress the importance for making room in our lives for each one.   Now, About the Cost . . .   While some programs are underwritten by private grants and foundations, church boards or congregations are often willing to help. You may also ask for paid leave or use vacation time. After all, wouldn't it be better to use your time and money in such "sanity maintenance and repair" than wind up unable to minister because of burnout or brokenness? It's a valuable investment - both for you and your church - for the sake of healthy ministering over the long haul.   So, give yourself a break. You'll be refreshed and find vitality for your life and ministry.   Article copyright © 2003, Alan Heller. All rights reserved. International copyright secured. Used by permission. For Your Funny Bone...   A woman is standing nude, looking in the bedroom mirror.  She is not happy with what she sees and says to her husband, 'I feel horrible; I look old, fat and ugly. I really need you to pay me a compliment.' The husband replies, 'Your eyesight's darn near perfect.' And that's how the fight started..... ************************************************************************ My wife was hinting about what she wanted for ourupcoming anniversary. She said, 'I want something shiny that goes from 0 to200 in about 3seconds. I bought her a scale. And that's how the fight started..... ************************************************************************ I asked my wife, 'Where do you want to go for our anniversary?' It warmed my heart to see her face melt in sweet appreciation. 'Somewhere I haven't been in a long time!' she said. So I suggested, 'How about the kitchen?' And that's when the fight started....

Heart and Soul Connection Newsletter A Lifeline for Ministry Wives

HeartLines Newsletter October 2009 In This Issue Book Corner "Be Still" Retreat Come Away or Fall Apart For Your Funny Bone... Dear Nancy,   I am SO grateful for the wonderful opportunity God gives me and my ministry to come alongside you -- to pray for you, love you, encourage you, and help you. I cannot express how much who you are and what you do for God and His Kingdom's work mean to me. You are VERY inspiring!!   It was an awesome experience to be able to meet so many of you at the last two Timothy + Barnabas Pastors & Wives Retreats. If you have never attended one, please check out their website,   www.timothybarnabas.org. Timothy + Barnabas is a ministry of First Baptist Church Woodstock, GA. Pastors and their wives come from all over the country - and some come from other countries! These pastors' schools  are usually in middle September.   One other IMPORTANT bit of news, the deadline to send your deposit in for the Be Still Retreat has been extended until December 1. We will take reservations for the retreat until February 1.    I love you so much, Nancy nancy@HeartandSoulConnection.com                      Counsel for Pastors' Wives                                          by Diane Langberg     This book could have been entitled, "Fourteen Frequently Asked Questions by Pastors' Wives." The book is based on fourteen letters of concern written by wives of pastors to a Christian counselor, Diane Langberg. Diane provides prayerful and sound counsel that addresses the hurts of pastors' wives.   For many pastoral couples, the challenge of pastoring is one of survival. High expectations about the opportunity to provide pastoral leadership and Christian ministry in a congregational setting too often turns to disillusionment and discouragement. Can the experiences really be changed into a positive ministry with real fulfillment? The author believes that is possible and, in general terms, address the "how" of accomplishing that goal.   Diane believes that the underlying cause for the multitude of pastors leaving pastoral ministry centers on two critical issues - marriage/family difficulties and burnout.   Beginning as early as their days of seminary or Bible college training, the encouragement and reward of putting ministry ahead of family causes "severe neglect of the family" by pastors and a seemingly irresolvable conflict over priorities. Diane believes that "one of the most important assets in an effective ministry is a healthy and strong marriage." She also connects difficulties in marriage with the growing tendency towards burnout. Her call is clear. Neglect of marriage and family results in devastation instead of achievement.   Once she addresses the ability to survive the pastorate, her attention turns to those practical questions that relate to everything from congregational ties to practical ways of dealing with physical, spiritual and emotional issues in the family. She is very willing to address tough issues that every couple faces, such as friendship with congregates, as well as some issues that we pray no couple has to face, like recovering from an affair.   This is a very practical book that is willing to address those questions that others seem to be unwilling to mention. This book can help provide keen insight into those questions that you always wanted to ask. Diane's responses will provide good material for those reflective moments when you face challenges as a pastoral couple. You may just find yourself returning to a chapter that you read earlier just so you can refresh your insight into a particularly pertinent issue. It is good counsel.                 "Be Still" Retreat for Ministry Wives   March 11-13, 2010     Stone Mountain Park Inn Stone Mountain, Georgia      Special Guest:   Esther Burroughs Worship Leader: Kaye Hurta   Cost?   For private room - $ 285  For 2 in a room - $210  For 3 in a room - $190                                 For 4 in a room -  $170                           For Fri-Sat only - $110    Cost includes 2 nights lodging, 2 continental breakfasts, a lunch buffet, a seafood dinner buffet (including all you can eat crab legs!), all break and snack food, conference fee, and entrance fee to Stone Mountain Park.   Deposit of $75 is due by December 1. Balance is due in 2 other payments due January 15 and February 15. We will take reservations until February 1. You can register by emailing Nancy Burgess at nancy@heartandsoulconnection.com or call 1-888-646-9433.     Come Away or Fall Apart by Alan Heller   Why Go?   To gain objectivity. Moving away from the ever-present pressures of ministry will allow you to view your life more rationally, giving yourself some emotional breathing room.   To get God's perspective. With undisturbed periods of time to be alone with the Lord, you will be able to view yourself and your ministry as He does.   To meditate on Scripture, for often the pressures of daily ministry don't allow you the freedom for extended times of personal study of God's Word.   For some healthy introspection on the strengths and weaknesses of your life and ministry, and time for planning future action steps.   To renew your energy physically, emotionally and spiritually.   For fun and recreation.   I met Cal Huge in the living room of the Inn, a retreat center where we were attending Train to Reign, a program for spiritually depleted pastors and their families. He had been responsible for hundreds of people in an international ministry, and the two-year calendar he carried in his Day-Timer had felt like a thousand-pound weight on his head. When I said hello, he didn't look up. He only stared at the floor and rocked in his rocking chair.   A couple of days later, as we sifted soil through a screen in the center's garden, Cal remarked, "It feels so good to do something that takes no mental effort."   Twelve weeks later, I watched him play basketball with his teenage boys, hold hands with his wife, smile and engage in meaningful conversations. He wasn't totally out of the woods, but was nearing the edge. After the program was over, Cal spent a short stint working part time at a local high school, then nine years as headmaster of a large Christian school.   Today he is waiting for God's next assignment, "Too often leaders use the tools of the world to grow their church [not the Lord's]," Cal says. "We talk about how we are out doing great things for God. I did! Yet it's rather arrogant to think that He needs us. What the time at the Inn really showed me was that God did not care what I did for Him. Rather He cared who I was and what I was to become. Was I to become more like Jesus, or just do lots of stuff?"   The Inn Cal refers to is actually Christian Training Center International (CTCI) in Franklin, N. C., founded in the early '70s by Jay and Sally Fesperman as the Inn of the Last Resort. Group interaction, messages, devotional times, physical labor and recreation under the loving direction of Fesperman (now deceased) and Larry Pons changed Cal's life.   Some retreat centers, such as CTCI, offer structured programs designed for pastoral couples or families in crisis, when immediate change must occur for the sake of both the church and the individuals involved. Whether a pastor has failed morally, feels burned out or can no longer function in his ministry position, counseling is built into the program to help in the healing process. Often, trained counselors and psychologists are available to provide additional guidance and treatment.   Where to Go to Get Away   Getaways with no programs:   The Escape House Rob and Debbie Killeffer 192 West St. Braintree, MA 02184 (781) 356-8286   Camp Berachah Ministries Steve Altick 19830 SE 328 th Place Auburn, WA 98092 (253) 939-0488 www.berachahcamp.org   Harvest Prayer Center Carl and Gayla Royer 11991 E. Davis Ave. Brazil, IN 47834 (812) 443-5703 www.harvestprayer.com   Retreat centers with optional light counseling:   Mountain Top Retreat Len Bauer 13705 Cottonwood Canyon Dr. Bozeman, MT 59718 (406) 763-4566 www.mountaintopretreat.org   America's Keswick Bill Welte 601 Route 530 Whiting, NJ 08759 (732) 350-1187 www.americaskeswick.org   SonScape Larry Magnuson, Roy Fitzwater P.O. Box 7777 Woodland Park, CO 80866 (888) 766-7227, (719) 687-7007 www.sonscape.com   Facilities offering intensive counseling:   Fairhaven Ministries Cal Swanson 2198 Roaring Creek Road Roan Mountain, TN 37687 (423) 772-4269 www.fairhaven1.com   Mountain Learning Center Russell and Kandy Veenker P.O. Box 625 June Lake, CA 93529 (800) 293-2508, (760) 648-7060 www.pastor-care.com   The Marriage Retreat Forrest Mobley 4421 Commons Drive E PMB 404 Destin, FL 32541 (850) 650-8000   For a comprehensive list of retreat/renewal centers around the country for ministers, visit parsonage.org/care/ministries.   On the other end of the spectrum, settings like Living Water Worship and Teaching Center in Cottonwood, Ariz., invite ministers to simply get away and unhinge from the pressures of ministry. Whether you want to hike, sit by a fire, fish or swim, or enjoy the scenery, room and board is provided, but you set your own schedule and pace for your stay.   Other retreats offer varying combinations of structure and leisure with counsel. Depending on your situation, you determine the right place for you and your family.   Getting There   Sometimes caring individuals, such as church board members or relatives, may insist we take a respite because our lives are spinning out of control. Bob and Sandy Sewell, founders of SonScape Re-Creation Ministries, a retreat center in Southern Colorado, call this out-of-control feeling the "overwhelmings." A focus of their center, in addition to providing time for reflection and relaxation, is to help pastors and families learn what they call the "holy rhythm of life."   The SonScape staff makes fun activities a priority in the prevention of burnout. They recognize the need for work, play, rest and worship, and they stress the importance for making room in our lives for each one.   Now, About the Cost . . .   While some programs are underwritten by private grants and foundations, church boards or congregations are often willing to help. You may also ask for paid leave or use vacation time. After all, wouldn't it be better to use your time and money in such "sanity maintenance and repair" than wind up unable to minister because of burnout or brokenness? It's a valuable investment - both for you and your church - for the sake of healthy ministering over the long haul.   So, give yourself a break. You'll be refreshed and find vitality for your life and ministry.   Article copyright © 2003, Alan Heller. All rights reserved. International copyright secured. Used by permission. For Your Funny Bone...   A woman is standing nude, looking in the bedroom mirror.  She is not happy with what she sees and says to her husband, 'I feel horrible; I look old, fat and ugly. I really need you to pay me a compliment.' The husband replies, 'Your eyesight's darn near perfect.' And that's how the fight started..... ************************************************************************ My wife was hinting about what she wanted for ourupcoming anniversary. She said, 'I want something shiny that goes from 0 to200 in about 3seconds. I bought her a scale. And that's how the fight started..... ************************************************************************ I asked my wife, 'Where do you want to go for our anniversary?' It warmed my heart to see her face melt in sweet appreciation. 'Somewhere I haven't been in a long time!' she said. So I suggested, 'How about the kitchen?' And that's when the fight started....

Heart and Soul Connection Newsletter A Lifeline for Ministry Wives

HeartLines Newsletter October 2009 In This Issue Book Corner "Be Still" Retreat Come Away or Fall Apart For Your Funny Bone... Dear Nancy,   I am SO grateful for the wonderful opportunity God gives me and my ministry to come alongside you -- to pray for you, love you, encourage you, and help you. I cannot express how much who you are and what you do for God and His Kingdom's work mean to me. You are VERY inspiring!!   It was an awesome experience to be able to meet so many of you at the last two Timothy + Barnabas Pastors & Wives Retreats. If you have never attended one, please check out their website,   www.timothybarnabas.org. Timothy + Barnabas is a ministry of First Baptist Church Woodstock, GA. Pastors and their wives come from all over the country - and some come from other countries! These pastors' schools  are usually in middle September.   One other IMPORTANT bit of news, the deadline to send your deposit in for the Be Still Retreat has been extended until December 1. We will take reservations for the retreat until February 1.    I love you so much, Nancy nancy@HeartandSoulConnection.com                      Counsel for Pastors' Wives                                          by Diane Langberg     This book could have been entitled, "Fourteen Frequently Asked Questions by Pastors' Wives." The book is based on fourteen letters of concern written by wives of pastors to a Christian counselor, Diane Langberg. Diane provides prayerful and sound counsel that addresses the hurts of pastors' wives.   For many pastoral couples, the challenge of pastoring is one of survival. High expectations about the opportunity to provide pastoral leadership and Christian ministry in a congregational setting too often turns to disillusionment and discouragement. Can the experiences really be changed into a positive ministry with real fulfillment? The author believes that is possible and, in general terms, address the "how" of accomplishing that goal.   Diane believes that the underlying cause for the multitude of pastors leaving pastoral ministry centers on two critical issues - marriage/family difficulties and burnout.   Beginning as early as their days of seminary or Bible college training, the encouragement and reward of putting ministry ahead of family causes "severe neglect of the family" by pastors and a seemingly irresolvable conflict over priorities. Diane believes that "one of the most important assets in an effective ministry is a healthy and strong marriage." She also connects difficulties in marriage with the growing tendency towards burnout. Her call is clear. Neglect of marriage and family results in devastation instead of achievement.   Once she addresses the ability to survive the pastorate, her attention turns to those practical questions that relate to everything from congregational ties to practical ways of dealing with physical, spiritual and emotional issues in the family. She is very willing to address tough issues that every couple faces, such as friendship with congregates, as well as some issues that we pray no couple has to face, like recovering from an affair.   This is a very practical book that is willing to address those questions that others seem to be unwilling to mention. This book can help provide keen insight into those questions that you always wanted to ask. Diane's responses will provide good material for those reflective moments when you face challenges as a pastoral couple. You may just find yourself returning to a chapter that you read earlier just so you can refresh your insight into a particularly pertinent issue. It is good counsel.                 "Be Still" Retreat for Ministry Wives   March 11-13, 2010     Stone Mountain Park Inn Stone Mountain, Georgia      Special Guest:   Esther Burroughs Worship Leader: Kaye Hurta   Cost?   For private room - $ 285  For 2 in a room - $210  For 3 in a room - $190                                 For 4 in a room -  $170                           For Fri-Sat only - $110    Cost includes 2 nights lodging, 2 continental breakfasts, a lunch buffet, a seafood dinner buffet (including all you can eat crab legs!), all break and snack food, conference fee, and entrance fee to Stone Mountain Park.   Deposit of $75 is due by December 1. Balance is due in 2 other payments due January 15 and February 15. We will take reservations until February 1. You can register by emailing Nancy Burgess at nancy@heartandsoulconnection.com or call 1-888-646-9433.     Come Away or Fall Apart by Alan Heller   Why Go?   To gain objectivity. Moving away from the ever-present pressures of ministry will allow you to view your life more rationally, giving yourself some emotional breathing room.   To get God's perspective. With undisturbed periods of time to be alone with the Lord, you will be able to view yourself and your ministry as He does.   To meditate on Scripture, for often the pressures of daily ministry don't allow you the freedom for extended times of personal study of God's Word.   For some healthy introspection on the strengths and weaknesses of your life and ministry, and time for planning future action steps.   To renew your energy physically, emotionally and spiritually.   For fun and recreation.   I met Cal Huge in the living room of the Inn, a retreat center where we were attending Train to Reign, a program for spiritually depleted pastors and their families. He had been responsible for hundreds of people in an international ministry, and the two-year calendar he carried in his Day-Timer had felt like a thousand-pound weight on his head. When I said hello, he didn't look up. He only stared at the floor and rocked in his rocking chair.   A couple of days later, as we sifted soil through a screen in the center's garden, Cal remarked, "It feels so good to do something that takes no mental effort."   Twelve weeks later, I watched him play basketball with his teenage boys, hold hands with his wife, smile and engage in meaningful conversations. He wasn't totally out of the woods, but was nearing the edge. After the program was over, Cal spent a short stint working part time at a local high school, then nine years as headmaster of a large Christian school.   Today he is waiting for God's next assignment, "Too often leaders use the tools of the world to grow their church [not the Lord's]," Cal says. "We talk about how we are out doing great things for God. I did! Yet it's rather arrogant to think that He needs us. What the time at the Inn really showed me was that God did not care what I did for Him. Rather He cared who I was and what I was to become. Was I to become more like Jesus, or just do lots of stuff?"   The Inn Cal refers to is actually Christian Training Center International (CTCI) in Franklin, N. C., founded in the early '70s by Jay and Sally Fesperman as the Inn of the Last Resort. Group interaction, messages, devotional times, physical labor and recreation under the loving direction of Fesperman (now deceased) and Larry Pons changed Cal's life.   Some retreat centers, such as CTCI, offer structured programs designed for pastoral couples or families in crisis, when immediate change must occur for the sake of both the church and the individuals involved. Whether a pastor has failed morally, feels burned out or can no longer function in his ministry position, counseling is built into the program to help in the healing process. Often, trained counselors and psychologists are available to provide additional guidance and treatment.   Where to Go to Get Away   Getaways with no programs:   The Escape House Rob and Debbie Killeffer 192 West St. Braintree, MA 02184 (781) 356-8286   Camp Berachah Ministries Steve Altick 19830 SE 328 th Place Auburn, WA 98092 (253) 939-0488 www.berachahcamp.org   Harvest Prayer Center Carl and Gayla Royer 11991 E. Davis Ave. Brazil, IN 47834 (812) 443-5703 www.harvestprayer.com   Retreat centers with optional light counseling:   Mountain Top Retreat Len Bauer 13705 Cottonwood Canyon Dr. Bozeman, MT 59718 (406) 763-4566 www.mountaintopretreat.org   America's Keswick Bill Welte 601 Route 530 Whiting, NJ 08759 (732) 350-1187 www.americaskeswick.org   SonScape Larry Magnuson, Roy Fitzwater P.O. Box 7777 Woodland Park, CO 80866 (888) 766-7227, (719) 687-7007 www.sonscape.com   Facilities offering intensive counseling:   Fairhaven Ministries Cal Swanson 2198 Roaring Creek Road Roan Mountain, TN 37687 (423) 772-4269 www.fairhaven1.com   Mountain Learning Center Russell and Kandy Veenker P.O. Box 625 June Lake, CA 93529 (800) 293-2508, (760) 648-7060 www.pastor-care.com   The Marriage Retreat Forrest Mobley 4421 Commons Drive E PMB 404 Destin, FL 32541 (850) 650-8000   For a comprehensive list of retreat/renewal centers around the country for ministers, visit parsonage.org/care/ministries.   On the other end of the spectrum, settings like Living Water Worship and Teaching Center in Cottonwood, Ariz., invite ministers to simply get away and unhinge from the pressures of ministry. Whether you want to hike, sit by a fire, fish or swim, or enjoy the scenery, room and board is provided, but you set your own schedule and pace for your stay.   Other retreats offer varying combinations of structure and leisure with counsel. Depending on your situation, you determine the right place for you and your family.   Getting There   Sometimes caring individuals, such as church board members or relatives, may insist we take a respite because our lives are spinning out of control. Bob and Sandy Sewell, founders of SonScape Re-Creation Ministries, a retreat center in Southern Colorado, call this out-of-control feeling the "overwhelmings." A focus of their center, in addition to providing time for reflection and relaxation, is to help pastors and families learn what they call the "holy rhythm of life."   The SonScape staff makes fun activities a priority in the prevention of burnout. They recognize the need for work, play, rest and worship, and they stress the importance for making room in our lives for each one.   Now, About the Cost . . .   While some programs are underwritten by private grants and foundations, church boards or congregations are often willing to help. You may also ask for paid leave or use vacation time. After all, wouldn't it be better to use your time and money in such "sanity maintenance and repair" than wind up unable to minister because of burnout or brokenness? It's a valuable investment - both for you and your church - for the sake of healthy ministering over the long haul.   So, give yourself a break. You'll be refreshed and find vitality for your life and ministry.   Article copyright © 2003, Alan Heller. All rights reserved. International copyright secured. Used by permission. For Your Funny Bone...   A woman is standing nude, looking in the bedroom mirror.  She is not happy with what she sees and says to her husband, 'I feel horrible; I look old, fat and ugly. I really need you to pay me a compliment.' The husband replies, 'Your eyesight's darn near perfect.' And that's how the fight started..... ************************************************************************ My wife was hinting about what she wanted for ourupcoming anniversary. She said, 'I want something shiny that goes from 0 to200 in about 3seconds. I bought her a scale. And that's how the fight started..... ************************************************************************ I asked my wife, 'Where do you want to go for our anniversary?' It warmed my heart to see her face melt in sweet appreciation. 'Somewhere I haven't been in a long time!' she said. So I suggested, 'How about the kitchen?' And that's when the fight started....

HeartLines Newsletter A Lifeline for Ministry Wives August 2007

In This Issue Be Encouraged! New HASC Lending Library Upcoming Events Reminder... Something to Make You Smile... Sign Up		Dear Nancy, These monthly "HeartLines" are from my heart to your heart as we share a very unique and wonderful life, being a ministry wife. My prayer is that these letters will inspire, inform, or encourage you in some way. PLEASE take this to your wife if you, the minister, are receiving this newsletter! Be Encouraged! As I was preparing my Sunday School lesson for next week entitled, When You're Discouraged, I thought - WOW! I can't wait to read this one!!! I KNOW, that like me, you have gone through at least one or two times of discouragement in your life as a minister's wife!! It seems comes with our territory - no, it comes with LIFE. I want to share with you part of an article that was in the EXTRA! Weekly Supplemental Teaching Plans from LifeWay Christian Resources. It is an excellent article concerning something that we, in ministry, face all the time - compassion fatigue. Please click on the link below to read more... Do You Have Compasssion Fatigue?

New HASC Lending Library

We are excited to provide a new resource for you! We have started a ministry wives lending library for you. We will put the list on our website soon so keep checking back to see what resources we have. Some of the items we have to check out are: Grace Walk tapes and workbooks, the Beth Moore DVD study, Believing God, books on burnout and discouragement in the ministry, and what to do after termination. There are several books about being a pastor's wife, as well as general books on Christian living and growth. We also have items in our office that can be purchased very inexpensively for your ladies events. If you are interested, please contact us by phone or email.

Upcoming Events

GOSPEL SING BENEFIT CONCERT for HASC -- Saturday, August 11, at 6:30 p.m. "Old Friends" concert will begin at 6:30pm at Sandy Valley Baptist Church- 1124 S. Houston Lake Rd.- Warner Robins, GA. A love offering will be taken with all proceeds benefitting Heart and Soul Connection. CAPTAINS DINNER FOR CHAMPIONS GOLF TOURNAMENT -- Monday, August 27, at 6:30 p.m. Free catered dinner for those who agree to be golf captains for our 2nd Annual Champions Golf Tournament Fundraiser on Oct. 22. It will be held at Lucerne Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, 4805 Highway 78, Lilburn, GA 30047. "INTIMACY WITH GOD" BIBLE SEMINAR -- September 28-29, 2007 Friday, Sept. 28: 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 29: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Led by Biblical counselors, Renee Berry and Sandy Witherspoon, from Grace Life International in Charlotte, NC. This seminar will be held at Lucerne Baptist Church, 4805 Highway 78, Lilburn, GA 30047. COST: $25 for both days; $15 for one day. 2nd ANNUAL CHAMPIONS GOLF TOURNAMENT -- Monday, October 22 If you know anyone in your church, or even your husband, who would like to golf in our tournament, please let us know! The tournament will be held at The Country Club of Gwinnett in Snellville, GA. 4th ANNUAL SOUTHEASTERN REGIONAL MINISTRY WIVES RETREAT -- February 28 - March 1, 2008 This retreat will be held at Simpsonwood Conference Center in Norcross, GA. Due to your requests, it will be a two-night retreat, beginning on Thursday, Feb. 28, and finishing on Saturday, March 1. BABBIE MASON will be our special guest.

Reminder...

If you would like to help Heart and Soul Connection (HASC) earn some cash, simply go to www.GoodSearch .com every time you need to do an internet search. Please type in "Heart and Soul Connection" in the second blank where it asks Who Do You GoodSearch For?" before you do your search. This ministry will receive charitable contributions from GoodSearch. This will greatly help us build our funds without anyone ever having to write a check! You don't have to pay anything - you don't have to buy anything! Make www.GoodSearch .com your homepage so you will remember to use it every day!

Something to Make You Smile...

WHERE WOULD YOU BE: IF - YOU HAD ALL THE MONEY YOUR HEART DESIRES? IF - YOU HAD NO WORRIES? IF - YOU CAME HOME AND THE FINEST MEAL IS AWAITING YOU IF - YOUR BATH WATER HAD BEEN RUN? IF - YOU HAD THE PERFECT KIDS? IF - YOUR HUSBAND WAS AWAITING YOU, WITH OPEN ARMS AND KISSES? SO, WHERE WOULD YOU BE? Well...... HELLOOOOOO!!!!!!!!! YOU'D BE IN THE WRONG HOUSE!!

You are PRECIOUS to me and you're always in my heart. Blessings on you as you wind down your summer, Nancy Burgess Heart and Soul Connection email: nancy@heartandsoulconnection.com phone: 1-888-MIN-WIFE (888-646-9433) web: http://www.heartandsoulconnection.com

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HeartLines Newsletter A Lifeline for Ministry Wives July 2007

In This Issue Independence Day Celebration The Heart of Worship Will You Help Us? Upcoming Events A Funny for You! Sign Up		Dear Dear Sister in Ministry, These monthly "HeartLines" are from my heart to your heart as we share a very unique and wonderful life, being a ministry wife. My prayer is that these letters will inspire, inform, or encourage you in some way. Independence Day Celebration As we approach July 4th, our thoughts naturally go to our country's celebration of its 231st year of independence. We remember the courage, commitment, perseverance, and sacrifice of our forefathers for freedom, and we are grateful. We gained liberty because of their forbearance and fortitude. We owe a debt we cannot pay. But we can choose to be grateful and live responsibly. I am reminded of the independence that we have because of the sacrifice, love, and commitment of our Lord Jesus. He paid the highest price so that we might have true freedom in our lives. Galatians 5:1 says, It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. What a great verse! Paul is encouraging us to celebrate our indepedence everyday, and live responsibly by not slipping back into bondage and slavery to our flesh. Thank you, Jesus, for the individual independence that you bought for us with your life. Let us commemorate our freedom each and everyday!

The Heart of Worship

"I'm coming back to the heart of worship, for it's all about you,.....all about you, Jesus. I'm sorry Lord for the thing I've made it." The words rang loudly and clearly in my ears that morning in church. Even though I'd heard the song many times before, it was as though I was hearing them for the first time. I awoke that morning thinking, 'Is it Sunday again,.....already?' I felt the dread come over me. I really don't feel like going this morning, but what will they think if I miss church again?' I went to my closet looking for the right thing to wear, hoping to find something that looked contemporary, but definitely conservative enough for a pastor's wife. I thought to myself, 'Should I volunteer for Vacation Bible School today, even though I'm not really good with children and teaching adult women is my passion?' After all, they did say that they didn't have enough VBS teachers. What will they think if I don't do it? What if they disapprove? I'd better hurry and get ready. What will people think if I'm late again?' Click here to read the rest of the article

Will You Help Us?

1. GOOD SEARCH... If you would like to help Heart and Soul Connection (HASC) earn some cash, simply go to www.GoodSearch. com every time you need to do an internet search. Please type in "Heart and Soul Connection" in the second blank where it asks Who Do You GoodSearch For?" before you do your search. This ministry will receive charitable contributions from GoodSearch. This will greatly help us build our funds without anyone ever having to write a check! You don't have to pay anything - you don't have to buy anything! Make www.GoodSearch. com your homepage so you will remember to use it every day! 2. HEART AND SOUL TRAVEL A brand new service for you when you need to book your travel, hotel, vacation, and entertainment needs. We receive a percentage of the bookings. Please help us by using this service when making your travel plans, buying flowers, purchasing tickets to sports and entertainement venues, and more. Also please tell your friends about this service. Please click here to check out this service. http://ytbtravel.com/heartandsoultravel

Upcoming Events

September 28-29, 2007 "Intimacy With God" Bible Conference hosted by Lucerne Baptist Church, 4805 Stone Mountain Hwy., Lilburn, GA 30047. October 22, 2007 2nd Annual Champions Golf Tournament Fundraiser, Country Club of Gwinnett, Snellville, GA. February 28 - March 1, 2008 Southeastern Regional Ministry Wives Retreat at Simpsonwood Conference Center, Norcross, GA, featuring Babbie Mason and Beloved.

A Funny for You!

HOW TO CLEAN THE HOUSE... 1. Open a new file in your PC . 2. Name it "Housework." 3. Send it to the RECYCLE BIN. 4. Empty the RECYCLE BIN. 5. Your PC will ask you, "Are you sure you want to delete Housework permanently?" 6. Calmly answer, "Yes," and press mouse button firmly..... 7. Feel better? Works for me!

I have been so out of touch!! Please forgive me! I have made several family-related trips and then I came down with acute bronchitis. When you don't hear from me, always know there is a really good reason (or reasons) for my lack of communication with you. You are PRECIOUS to me and you're always in my heart. Blessings on you this busy summer, Nancy Burgess Heart and Soul Connection email: nancy@heartandsoulconnection.com phone: 1-888-MIN-WIFE (888-646-9433) web: http://www.heartandsoulconnection.com

HeartLines Newsletter A Lifeline for Ministry Wives May 2007

In This Issue Heart and Soul Connection Rejoices! The Magnifying Glass Upcoming Events Something To Make You Smile! Sign Up		Dear Nancy, These monthly "HeartLines" are from my heart to your heart as we share a very unique and wonderful life, being a ministry wife. My prayer is that these letters will inspire, inform, or encourage you in some way. Heart and Soul Connection Rejoices! Our "Hold Fast" conference the end of March was anointed and awesome. Mary Southerland and Donna Ritchie were our worship leaders, and we were drawn into the presence of our King under their leadership. Probably one of my favorite parts of a ministry wives conference is to watch the Holy Spirit free up, lift up, heal, show direction, and encourage the women who come. He outdid Himself this time! Some of the comments from the attendees were: "It was great. The liberty to arrange my own schedule to meet my needs for this weekend was great. I slept 'til 8:00 a.m. - wow!" "I feel that all the women here benefit from the time together, the wisdom of experienced ladies, and the chance for healing." "God bless you for standing in the gap and touching the tremendous hurts for these women. Thank you for helping them to continue to help others!" "...to come to this conference has ministered to me and encouraged me greatly. I am not alone. Here I don't have to be perfect, I don't have to make sure everything is done. I just get to stop and be with God and other women in the ministry. This will probably get me through another year in ministry. I love it. Thank you!"

The Magnifying Glass

One of my new friends, Ruth Kennedy, is a writer and speaker who also happens to be married to a pastor. She has written a very thought-provoking, inspirational article for us this month entitled The Magnifying Glass. This article describes some of the stresses and pressures that we feel as our lives and our families' lives are put under the scrutiny of an invisible magnifying glass. To read the entire article, please click on the link to our website. The higher we go in ministry, the more carefully we are examined. People around us, even those close to us, can search for flaws and imperfections. It's as if our lives are put under a magnifying glass. The scrutiny and critique is far beyond what an average church member would ever endure. Many of us feel like fish living in a fish bowl, our lives lived under a microscope. Sometimes church members can examine us closely for any weaknesses, exploit them, judge them, and put them on display for all to see. Click here to read the rest of the article...

Upcoming Events

September 28-29, 2007 "Intimacy With God" Bible Conference hosted by Lucerne Baptist Church, 4805 Stone Mountain Hwy., Lilburn, GA 30047. October 22, 2007 2nd Annual Champions Golf Tournament Fundraiser, Country Club of Gwinnett, Snellville, GA. February 28 - March 1, 2008 Southeastern Regional Ministry Wives Retreat at Simpsonwood Conference Center, Norcross, GA, featuring Babbie Mason and Beloved.

Something To Make You Smile!

My Resignation I hereby tender my resignation as an adult. I have decided to accept the responsibilities of an 8- year-old again. I want to go to McDonald's and think that it's a 4-star restaurant. I want to sail sticks across a fresh mud puddle and make ripples with rocks. I want to think M&Ms are better than money because you can eat them. I want to lie under a big oak tree and run a lemonade stand with my friends on a hot summer day. I want to return to a time when life was simple. When all you knew were colors, multiplication tables, and nursery rhymes, but that didn't bother you, because you didn't know what you didn't know and you didn't care. All you knew was to be happy because you were blissfully unaware of all the things that should make you worried or upset. I want to think the world is fair. That everyone is honest and good. I want to believe that anything is possible. I want to be oblivious to the complexities of life and be overly excited by the little things again. I want to live simply again. I don't want my day to consist of computer crashes, mountains of paperwork, depressing news, how to survive more days in the month than there is money in the bank, doctor bills, gossip, illness, and loss of loved ones. I want to believe in the power of smiles, hugs, a kind word, truth, justice, peace, dreams, the imagination, mankind, and making angels in the snow. So....here's my checkbook and my car keys, my credit card bills and my 401K statements. I am officially resigning from adulthood. And if you want discuss this further, you'll have to catch me first, cause, "Tag! You're it!"

I pray you keep your sanity during a very BUSY month! You are loved and prayed for, Nancy Burgess Heart and Soul Connection email: nancy@heartandsoulconnection.com phone: 1-888-MIN-WIFE (888-646-9433) web: http://www.heartandsoulconnection.com

HeartLines Newsletter A Lifeline for Ministry Wives March 2007

In This Issue Our Special Weekend is Here! ANITA RENFROE in Concert for Heart and Soul Connection! "HOLD FAST" Regional Ministry Wives Seminar MARY SOUTHERLAND -- Our Conference Speaker DONNA RITCHIE - Our Conference Worship Leader A Funny For You! Sign Up		Dear Nancy, These monthly "HeartLines" are from my heart to your heart as we share a very unique and wonderful life, being a ministry wife. My prayer is that these letters will inspire, inform, or encourage you in some way. Our Special Weekend is Here! Our "Hold Fast" weekend is just a few weeks away!! We already have way over half of our rooms at the Marriott filled, and we are registering more ministry wives everyday! As ministry wives, we need the support and fellowship of women who experience similar circumstances, struggles, and situations that we do. So our "Hold Fast" weekend is planned to accomplish that purpose! So please call us (770-455-4872 or 888-646- 9433) or go to our website HeartandSoulConnection.com for more information or to register. We still have plenty of room for YOU!

ANITA RENFROE in Concert for Heart and Soul Connection!

You and your friends are in for an amazing treat on Friday, March 23! Anita Renfroe, well- known Christian comedian, musician, author, and speaker, will be live in concert as a benefit for Heart and Soul Connection at the Lilburn Alliance Church, 5915 Highway 29, Lilburn, GA 30047, at 7:00 p.m.. This is the first part of the fun and restoration of this special weekend. Anita's insuppressible joy that lightens the hearts and feeds the souls of her audience has blessed many, and as a result she will be appearing at every Women of Faith event this year! Her book entitled, If It's Not One Thing, It's Your Mother! has been very well-received. Her most recent book, If You Can't Lose It, Decorate It! will be making its debut at this concert, as will her newest DVD, Total Momsense. This concert is for ladies and gents! All proceeds from the concert will go to the ministry of Heart and Soul Connection. If you are registered for the "Hold Fast" conference on Saturday, you will get a free V.I.P. ticket for this concert. If you have other friends that want to come to just this concert, and they want the best seats in the house (V.I.P. seating), those tickets are selling for $25 each. These tickets are going fast, so please order these limited seats early. For every 10 V.I.P. tickets bought, 1 free V.I.P. ticket will be given. Please consider having a group from your church come. There will be group rates available in general seating, too - for every 5 tickets you buy, you get 1 ticket FREE! The group-rate tickets are $20 each. So mark your calendars, gather up a group and come laugh the night away on March 23!

"HOLD FAST" Regional Ministry Wives Seminar

PLACE: The Atlanta Marriott Gwinnett Place Hotel, 1775 Pleasant Hill Road, Duluth, Georgia 30096 DATE: Saturday, March 24, 2007 TIME: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 a.m. THEME: "Hold Fast" Titus 1:9 says holding fast the faithful word as [she] hath been taught, that [she] may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to refute those who contradict it. COST: $50 for the day, includes conference fee and buffet lunch. If you come for the Anita Renfroe Concert the night before and come for the massages, destress water relaxation, Thriftique/Swap Shop, and other fun festivities, the costs vary according to how many are in each room. For a private room, conference fee and buffet lunch --- $125; For two in a room, conference fee, and buffet lunch --- $ 90; For three in a room, conference fee, and buffet lunch --- $ 75; For four in a room, conference fee, and buffet lunch --- $ 60. Registration fee (non-refundable) is due at time of registration -- $ 25, which is subtracted from total cost of retreat. Partial scholarships are available. Please send completed registration fee (with roommate preferences) and form to Heart and Soul Connection, P.O. Box 31, Tucker, GA 30085. Contact us by calling 1-888-MIN-WIFE (888-646-9433) and register by phone, if you do not have a seminar brochure and registration form.

MARY SOUTHERLAND -- Our Conference Speaker

Kay Warren, wife of Rick Warren, says this about Mary: Mary Southerland is proof that good things come in small packages! Petite in frame, the power of God is mighty within her, and she communicates His truths with passion, humor, wisdom and conviction. She has walked with God through some very dark, bleak valleys, and in those difficult times she has learned to find her joy and strength in Him. Women will be encouraged and equipped to walk closer to Him as they listen to Mary. Mary is the author of several books, Coming Out of the Dark, the story of her personal struggle with clinical depression; Sandpaper People, which helps you find answers for the question: Is someone in your life driving you crazy?; Experiencing God's Power in Your Ministry, which shares that success and survival is possible for every woman who serves God; and her latest book, Escaping the Stress Trap, in which she shares how you can take charge of anxiety-filled circumstances, approaching stress in a way that freedom and peace can rule your daily life. Mary is also a freelance writer and writes a weekly column for women in ministry as part of "Rick Warren's Tool Box" on the Purpose Driven web site. We are in for a treat as Mary shares Christ as Truth, Life, and Power for holding fast as we live the life of a minister's wife.

DONNA RITCHIE - Our Conference Worship Leader

One of Christian contemporary music's compelling singers, Donna compassionately interacts with her audience and takes them to the ultimate level of High Praise. A native of Detroit, Michigan Donna began as a pianist at the age of eight years old under the tutelage of her pastor dad. She now co-hosts the internationally popular TV show, "Friends and Neighbors." Her show airs in over 55 countries with over 77 million viewers and growing! As a wife and mother, Donna is very clear about the direction of her music. Donna crystallizes her purpose in music and in life with a personal relationship with her Creator.

A Funny For You!

This coming week is National Mental Health Care week. You can do your part by remembering to contact at least one unstable person to show you care. Well, my job is done .....Your turn!

I pray you have a very blessed month! You are loved and prayed for, Nancy Burgess Heart and Soul Connection email: nancy@heartandsoulconnection.com phone: 1-888-MIN-WIFE (888-646-9433) web: http://www.heartandsoulconnection.com

HeartLines Newsletter A Lifeline for Ministry Wives February 2007

In This Issue Special Weekend for You in March! ANITA RENFROE in Concert for Heart and Soul Connection! REGIONAL MINISTRY WIVES SEMINAR Our Guest Seminar Speaker -- MARY SOUTHERLAND Our Guest Seminar Worship Leader -- DONNA RITCHIE Some Funnies For You! Sign Up		Dear Sister in Ministry, These monthly "HeartLines" are from my heart to your heart as we share a very unique and wonderful life, being a ministry wife. My prayer is that these letters will inspire, inform, or encourage you in some way. Special Weekend for You in March! Two Big Events for you are coming March 23-24, 2007! Circle the dates on your calendar and plan to join us. Here's the scoop ˜ As ministry wives, we need the support and fellowship of women who experience similar circumstances, struggles, and situations that we do. So we have formulated a great weekend for you to accomplish that purpose! So please try to come for this fun, encouraging weekend designed just for you. Details in the next two articles.

ANITA RENFROE in Concert for Heart and Soul Connection!

You and your friends are in for an amazing treat on Friday, March 23! Anita Renfroe, well- known Christian comedian, musician, author, and speaker, will be live in concert as a benefit for Heart and Soul Connection at the Lilburn Alliance Church, 5915 Highway 29, Lilburn, GA 30047, at 7:00 p.m.. Anita's insuppressible joy that lightens the hearts and feeds the souls of her audience has blessed many, and as a result she will be appearing at every Women of Faith event this year! Her book entitled, If It's Not One Thing, It's Your Mother! has been very well-received. Her most recent book, If You Can't Lose It, Decorate It! will be making its debut at this concert, as will her newest DVD. This concert is for anyone who wants to experience the fun and laughter that Anita brings - women and men. My husband is one of Anita's biggest fans! All proceeds from the concert will go to the ministry of Heart and Soul Connection. If you want the best seats in the house (V.I.P. seating), those tickets will sell for $25 each. Those tickets will go fast, so please order these limited seats early. For every 10 V.I.P. tickets you buy, you will receive 1 free V.I.P. ticket. Please consider having a group from your church come. There will be group rates available in general seating, too - for every 5 tickets you buy, you get 1 ticket FREE! If you order before Feb. 23, the group-rate tickets are $15 each. After Feb. 23, the group-rate tickets will be $20 each. So mark your calendars, gather up a group and come laugh the night away on March 23! For more information you can click here

REGIONAL MINISTRY WIVES SEMINAR

PLACE: The Atlanta Marriott Gwinnett Place Hotel, 1775 Pleasant Hill Road, Duluth, Georgia 30096 DATE: Saturday, March 24, 2007 TIME: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. THEME: "Hold Fast" Titus 1:9 says "holding fast the faithful word as [she] hath been taught, that [she] may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to refute those who contradict it." COST: $50 for the day, includes conference fee and buffet lunch. If you come for the Anita Renfroe Concert the night before and come for the massages, water aerobics, Swap Shop, and other fun festivities, the costs vary according to how many are in each room. For a private room, conference fee and buffet lunch --- $125; For two in a room, conference fee, and buffet lunch --- $ 90; For three in a room, conference fee, and buffet lunch --- $ 75; For four in a room, conference fee, and buffet lunch --- $ 60. Registration fee (non-refundable) is due at time of registration -- $ 25, which is subtracted from total cost of retreat. Partial scholarships are available. Please send completed registration fee (with roommate preferences) and form to Heart and Soul Connection, P.O. Box 31, Tucker, GA 30085. Contact us by calling 1-888-MIN-WIFE (888-646-9433) and register by phone, if you do not have a seminar brochure and registration form.

Our Guest Seminar Speaker -- MARY SOUTHERLAND

Mary is a pastor's wife and has been married to Dan Southerland, pastor and author of "Transitioning: Leading Your Church Through Change" for 30 years. Dan and Mary have two children, Jered, a college senior, and Danna, a college freshman. Mary is the author of the book, Coming Out of the Dark, the story of her personal struggle with clinical depression. Mary's second book, Sandpaper People, helps you find answers for the question: Is someone in your life driving you crazy? This book finds practical, Biblical truths for your difficult relationships. Her third book, Experiencing God's Power in Your Ministry, shares that success and survival is possible for every woman who serves God...from one who has been in the trenches of full time ministry...and lived to tell about it! In her latest book, Escaping the Stress Trap, she understands that stress happens. You cannot eliminate it from your life, but you don't have to be tangled up in it, allowing it to complicate your days and frazzle your nights. You can take charge of anxiety-filled circumstances, approaching stress in a way that freedom and peace can rule your daily life. Escaping the Stress Trap offers 9 principles for dealing with the stress in your life. Mary is also a freelance writer and writes a weekly column for women in ministry as part of "Rick Warren's Tool Box" on the Purpose Driven web site. Mary has contributed to various magazines such as ParentLife, Just Between Us, Looking Up, Fresh Outlook and P31 Woman. Kay Warren, wife of Rick Warren, says this about Mary: Mary Southerland is proof that good things come in small packages! Petite in frame, the power of God is mighty within her, and she communicates His truths with passion, humor, wisdom and conviction. She has walked with God through some very dark, bleak valleys, and in those difficult times she has learned to find her joy and strength in Him. Women will be encouraged and equipped to walk closer to Him as they listen to Mary.

Our Guest Seminar Worship Leader -- DONNA RITCHIE

One of Christian contemporary music's compelling singers, has gained the accolades and respect of her peers. Her style of singing has always been intensely her own and has inspired millions. An Ordained Minister of Music, she compassionately interacts with her audience and takes them to the ultimate level of High Praise. She confidently charges and sets the atmosphere. A native of Detroit, Michigan she began as a pianist at the age of eight years old under the tutelage of her dad, Pastor / Bishop Donald Ritchie of Freedom Life Ministries, Montgomery, AL. A member of The Recording Academy (i.e. The Grammy Awards, Atlanta, GA Chapter) Donna is being propelled to the forefront of the music industry. Her performances include sharing the stage with such names as ORU's Richard Roberts, Donnie McClurkin, Yolanda Adams, Min. Mike Murdock, Laverne and Edith Tripp, Vicki Winans, Hezekiah Walker and TLCC, Dr. Bobby Jones, Comedian Jonathan Slocumb and the list goes on. Her video performances includes, The Dr. Bobby Jones Gospel Show, Vicki Winans ("Long As I Got King Jesus"), Lisa Page Brooks ("Jesus Will See You Through") and Candi Staton ("Hold On Jesus is Coming"). Having Hosted several televised shows, she now co- hosts the internationally popular TV show "Friends and Neighbors" With worldwide recognition, the show is seen on Sky Angel Network throughout the United States and The Inspirational Network overseas. Her show airs in over 55 countries with over 77 million viewers and growing! As a wife and mother, Donna is very clear about the direction of her music. Donna crystallizes her purpose in music and in life with a personal relationship with the Creator and allowing others to know He is Real and not a genie in a bottle.

Some Funnies For You!

TEACHER: Donald, what is the chemical formula for water? DONALD: H I J K L M N O. TEACHER: What are you talking about? DONALD: Yesterday you said it's H to O. TEACHER: Millie, give me a sentence starting with "I." MILLIE: I is... TEACHER: No, Millie..... Always say, "I am." MILLIE: All right... "I am the ninth letter of the alphabet." TEACHER: George Washington not only chopped down his father's cherry tree, but also admitted it. Now, Louie, do you know why his father didn't punish him? LOUIS: Because George still had the ax in his hand. TEACHER: Harold, what do you call a person who keeps on talking when people are no longer interested? HAROLD: A teacher

I pray you have a very special "Love" month! You are loved and prayed for, Nancy Burgess Heart and Soul Connection email: nancy@heartandsoulconnection.com phone: 1-888-MIN-WIFE (888-646-9433) web: http://www.heartandsoulconnection.com