In late 2020, I found myself with a few hours in my day to devote to giving back. I knew that there was a group exploring the feasibility of a retreat center out on Johns Island catering to those charged with providing spiritual care for what we were all experiencing together. As a fishing expert and boat captain, I thought I could contribute by getting ministry leaders on the water for much-needed moments of peace and respite. 

Those unprecedented times were probably among the toughest years to pastor a church; my family and I knew many called to ministry who were struggling and doubting if they could continue. The need was greater than I realized. 

From coast to coast, we are facing a soul care and mental health crisis across churches. Studies show as many as 42% of pastoral leaders report suffering from burnout. Without relief or solutions, many step away from vocational ministry altogether, and, with each exit, leave an immediate void and rippling repercussions felt across congregations, families and communities.

In response to this crisis and as a part of The Pastors Collective non-profit, Pastor Greg Surratt launched the Retreat at Church Creek in 2021 – a refuge for pastors struggling with isolation, loneliness and burnout. To date, the retreat has served more than 1200 pastors as well as 300 other ministry and marketplace leaders.  

I’m proud to play a small part in helping ministry leaders live well and finish strong - first as a volunteer on through to my role today as the Director of The Retreat at Church Creek.

Providing sanctuary on 66 stunning waterfront acres in Johns Island, South Carolina, this four-day retreat offers ample opportunity to relax, recharge and reconnect with small groups of like-minded ministry leaders. 

Rest and rejuvenation go hand and hand. We offer plenty of ways to unplug and play, as well as intentional time with spiritual mentors and peers. While enjoying peaceful Lowcountry respite, participants can choose from a variety of options for rest and refreshment including:

If you find yourself with time on your hands and a call to service, we are always in need of volunteers to help with the property, host guests, or sponsor a pastor. 

Only because of generous support, the Retreat at Church Creek is free for ministry leaders across all denominations (though many of them go on to pay it forward or partner with us financially to ensure others are afforded the same opportunities).

If you feel called to get involved or sponsor a pastor, I’d love to hear from you!

Or I invite you to learn more about rest through retreats and how you can support our goal of helping 10,000 leaders in the next five years through this and other ministries at pastorscollective.com.