Some years ago I heard a unique story of an adventurer who while traveling in Africa hired some natives to carry supplies and travel with him on a journey through the continent. Each morning they would wake up early and put in a long day. He was pushing hard to cover ground and was surprised one morning when he awoke to find out that they were all resting and not getting ready to carry supplies and travel. When he asked the leader what they were doing, he simply replied, "They are resting, taking time for their souls to catch up."

  A Sabbath rest at Genesee Home is an opportunity for the soul to catch up. In the busy days of ministry with all of its complexities today I am convinced pastors and their mates benefit greatly as do their congregations or ministries when they intentionally take time for Sabbath rest. Genesee Home provides the perfect setting and opportunity for ministers and their mates to experience Sabbath rest. The love, support, and encouragement expressed through the host Charles and Bev Blom will uplift the soul and encourage the heart of any minister.

  Among the many benefits I experienced through the week at Genesee Home, one stand out was the blessing and benefit it was to my wife Sharon. The setting and time together in such a safe and quiet atmosphere touched her heart deeply and provided blessing hard to put into words. We so enjoyed our time together away from the daily opportunities, pressures, and privileges of full time ministry.

  With my whole heart I recommend a week of Sabbath rest at Genesee Home. I can think of no more meaningful way to show love and appreciation to a pastor and family.

~ Pastor David Grinder 2008

Dear Charley and Bev,

Thank you for another wonderful week at Genesee! I want to personally express my gratitude for the amazing method you employ in nurturing every visiting Pastor and spouse. The strategy you utilize really is the genius of the Genesee model. The program is unparalleled; the setting is spectacular, but these are simply supporting actors in the true drama that unfolds throughout the week...

Many Pastors regularly perceive the message that they could/should do better. Internalizing the problems and challenges of their church, they rarely feel fully accepted and truly appreciated by their congregation. Often they project these feelings onto Father God, affecting their intimacy and relationship with God.

The genius of Genesee is that from the moment each one arrives, they are greeted with the sense of being lavishly loved and greatly valued. The gourmet meals suggest: "You are special"; the beautiful room decorations and pressed sheets whisper: "You are significant."; Charley and Bev, your gentle guidance and availability convey: "You are valuable." Sadly, for many Pastors, this may be the only time, all year (or in a lifetime) where they clearly receive this grace filled message genuinely and authentically.

That is the genius of Genesee...

Thank you for "being Jesus" to the caregivers of our Father's family!

Blessings,

~ Steve & Becky Witmer January 30, 2008
Supervisor, Foursquare Canada

"Jim and I just got back from another wonderful Sabbath week at Genesee Home. This ministry is AMAZING!!!...The host couple is wonderful and has 25 years of pastoral experience and great wisdom. The group discussions are at a minimum...The majority of the time is free time to rest, meditate and have wonderful silence and solitude with the Lord and romantic restful times with your spouse.

The neat thing is, our church considers it a "conference" so Jim is able to pay for it out of his professional/conference expense...even the gas money! It doesn't cost us anything personally. The tricky part is just finding someone to watch the children for 6 days! But all the planning and coordinating is SO worth it. Truly, since our first visit in 2007, Jim and I have never been the same. God met us there in such a powerful way. Ever year we are reset and recharged for another year in ministry. We learned the first year to guard and value our Sabbaths more than ever, if we want to have the energy to continue to thrive in ministry for the long haul."

~ Jim & Mecca Rutherford 2008

Having these 5 days following the Hume Lake pastors retreat has been one of the best vacation/respites we've ever had. I felt integrated with my marriage and ministry rather than at odds with them. The typical conflicts of what to do and what we can afford were not part of our time together as a couple. I'm not one to hang around the bedroom but this room was an exceptional suite that especially pampered my wife. And I have slept more hours and awakened more refreshed than I can recall. How wonderful to go down for great meals with great people every day with a whole day ahead free from pressures. Charlie and Bev made it easy to be ourselves and made it all come together with their nurturing touch. And what a diverse group we were. I look forward to exchanging phone numbers and addresses so we can meet again. Rested and refreshed in body, mind and spirit.

You are in for the biggest treat in your life! I can only echo Kevin's comments! This has been pure joy - a tremendous blessing. Drink up every moment it goes by fast. I can't believe we have to leave tomorrow. We will be back - God willing! I feel so nurtured too by Bev and Charlie and Lorraine - Bravo what a menu...Doc was a wonderful inspiration as well - you'll see. I will carry this time away with me and will have it to reflect on - It will be my soul food. Till we meet again - God Bless Genesee House and all the hands that put it together. For ever grateful.

~ Rob & Karyn Dirkse Sept 2007

• Are you an Evangelical Church member interested in supporting your Pastor?
• Would you like to give a gift of appreciation to an Inner City Pastor?
• Would you like to give a gift of appreciation to a church planting pastor?
• Would you like to give a gift of appreciation to a Missionary?
• Are you a Mission's Pastor or Chairperson of a Mission's Committee of your local church and looking for your way to bless your Missionary couples?

If you can answer YES to any of these, then visit our "Gift of a Visit" section to learn more about this part of Genesee Home's ministry.