Cedar Springs Presbyterian Church

Retreat Center

"Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest"
(Matthew 11:28)

What is the mission of the Retreat Center?

The property of over three hundred acres of woods, fields and streams, with a lovely scenic lake, several cabins and cottages, and a rustic lodge, is located on the Cumberland Plateau just off of I-40, less than an hour from the church campus. (Download a PDF of Retreat Center brochure with photos.)

It is our desire that the retreat center be a place of great natural beauty where we learn to order our lives as did the first Christians, who "devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers" (Acts 2:42); where the weary find refreshment and rest from the noise and busyness of life; where those who live in city or suburb experience the majesty of God's creation and the healing power of silence and solitude; and where those seeking Christ encounter him in spirit and truth.

How will a contemplative environment be maintained?

In order to maintain an ethos of peace and quiet, we ask that complete silence be maintained between the hours of 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM, that cell phones, radios, ipods and computers be turned off (we would encourage you to leave all such distractions in your car), and that even during the hours of the day nothing be done that would distract others who are on retreat. There are miles of trails to walk, woods, meadows and a lovely lake to enjoy. However, we ask you to refrain completely from the following activities: hunting, fishing, boating, swimming, fireworks, ATV's, and anything else that would present danger or distraction to those who are seeking contemplative silence.

How do I learn to make a spiritual retreat?

We have men willing to help men and women willing to help women learn to make spiritual retreat. Josh Renfroe (291-5226) can tell you who they are and how to reach them.

How do I make a reservation?

Call Josh Renfroe at the church (291-5226) or email at joshrenfroe@cspc.net.

What is provided at the retreat center?

Cabins with beds and bathrooms, a lodge with a kitchen, a meeting house set up as a conference room, acres and acres of wooded hillside, streamside and lakeside for walking, hiking, or sitting in contemplative silence.

What should I take with me?

Bedding, towels and personal items, food, a Bible, writing materials and journal.

How do I get there?

Get directions from Josh Renfroe at the church or click here.

Please do not visit the retreat center without an appointment. The gate will be locked and you will not be able to enter.