Planning guides
Practical, Christ-centered guides for church leaders and event coordinators — and for anyone looking for a church home.
How to Plan a Church Retreat: A Step-by-Step Guide
A practical timeline, budget and checklist for planning a church retreat — from choosing dates and a retreat center to meals, transportation and follow-up.
Read the guide →How to Choose a Christian Retreat Center: 15 Questions to Ask
Before you book a camp or retreat center for your church, ask these 15 questions about capacity, lodging, meals, worship space, policies and cost.
Read the guide →Planning a Youth Retreat or Mission Trip: A Practical Guide
How to plan a safe, meaningful youth retreat or mission trip — chaperone ratios, background checks, forms, transportation and a schedule students will remember.
Read the guide →Marriage Retreat and Seminar Ideas for Your Church
Ideas for planning a marriage retreat, date-night seminar or marriage conference at your church — formats, topics, childcare and follow-up.
Read the guide →How to Start a Church Food Pantry or Soup Kitchen
Steps for starting a food pantry or community meal at your church — assessing need, partners, food safety, volunteers and serving with dignity.
Read the guide →How to Find a Church When You Move to a New Town
Moving somewhere new? Practical steps for finding a Bible-teaching church family — what to look for, how to visit, and how to get connected.
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