Welcome to the ConnectUp Retreat!
Below you will find all of the pertinent information for this weekend!
Retreat Schedule & Brief (PDF Versions)
RETREAT BRIEF (TEXT VERSION)
Welcome letter
Dear Friends,
We gather together this weekend with a common bond of love for Jesus Christ. This is a spiritual family of ministers who are steadily loving others through healing prayer. Thank you for your service to people through ConnectUp. As ministers, your heart also matters. We pray that you would rest deeply, laugh heartily, sit quietly, and play happily. This is your retreat. Welcome.
This weekend, our theme is “Come Alive.” In the midst of our shared love, there are also a host of individual experiences represented here. We each have a story that hosts gains and losses, tragedies and victories, hopes and disappointments, faith and doubt. Some of us are arriving to this weekend exhausted, others are gripping what feels like a final thread of hope.
Into each of our stories, the Lord is saying “Come alive.” He is inhaling with breath, and then turning His face towards the dry bones in your life. He is then putting His breath into you, and turning your face towards the dry bones of our world. He is commanding you, me, our community - to prophecy. “Son of Man, can these bones live?” This weekend we will sit with Ezekial 37, and prayerfully be the recipients of the breath of God.
My Grandpa used to say, “When you read a book, sit down and give it your full attention as if you were sitting down for a meeting with its author.” This weekend, I want to invite you to sit down for a meeting with the author of life. He began a good work in your life, and He will finish it. Dry bones are not the end of your story, and neither is it your job to figure out how to bring them back to life. Let breath enter you this weekend.
Happy Retreat! We are so glad that you are here.
Honored to be following Jesus with you,
Katie & Mitch Luse
p.s. If you are wondering, there are many people here who do not know other people. This is the best place to make a new friend. Open up your heart, introduce yourself, and make a new friend! :)
Retreat Program Information
Gatherings | Chapel
Friday Evening | Come Alive: Your Heart
Saturday Morning | Worship & Workshops
Saturday Evening | Come Alive: Our Community
Sunday Morning | Come Alive: The World
Team Meetings | Sunday Morning (9am)
Central Team | Chapel
Radiant Life | Conference Room
Love Baltimore | Lobby
Allison Park | 1st Floor Lounge
The Table Church | 2nd Floor Lounge
Iglesia Celebración | Multi-Purpose Room
Kingdom Carriers Advance | Lobby
Christ Community Church | Carver Board Room
Bethel Church | Dining Hall
Pending, Salvation Army Pittsburgh | Dining Hall
Contact Information
General Questions, Lodge Front Desk: 570–488–6129
Time Sensitive Assistance, Mitch Luse Cell: 301-529-3945
Emergency: 911
WORKSHOPS I - TRAINING WORKSHOPS
Choose one workshop to attend during this time frame.
Saturday | 9:45-10:45am
Demo & Q&A (2nd Floor Lounge) Come observe a live ministry session, followed by Q&A with an experienced 1st. This is a unique opportunity to be present for in person ministry, and experience the power and holiness of how Jesus meets people through prayer ministry. (Mariruth Borden)
Demostración en vivo & Preguntas/Respuestas (Conference Room) Observa una sesión en vivo con un ministro con mucha experiencia, junto con un tiempo de preguntas/respuestas. (Borris Arratia)
Tag-Team Workshop (1st Floor Lounge) Do you desire or feel called to lead ConnectUp sessions someday? This workshop is for you! The focus will be encouraging, empowering and imparting what is needed to help you step into the next part of your training journey towards leading sessions. (Jessica Sanders)
IP Demo & Q&A (Chapel) Do you have questions about the brokenness in your own heart? Do you want to grow in ministry to the broken soul? Do you want to volunteer to receive ministry? Come out to the Integration Prayer Workshop to get God's heart for the broken (i.e., all of us) and to learn to minister effectively to the deeper needs of the heart. You can observe, ask questions, or even volunteer to receive. (Mitch Luse)
Target Tools Plus (Carver Board Room) Come learn some additional strategies that will equip you for specific needs that may arise during a ministry session. This workshop is for ministers who are comfortable with the ConnectUp tools, and are eager to learn more ways that the Holy Spirit is meeting guests in sessions. (Barb Olson)
Group Ministry (Multi-Purpose Room) Come learn about leading groups in ConnectUp ministry. We will discuss the role of spiritual leadership, the prophetic, and basic public speaking skills that enhance people's capacity to receive in a group context. This workshop is best suited for 1sts and tag-teamers. (Katie Luse)
WORKSHOPS II - SPIRITUAL FORMATION WORKSHOPS
Choose one workshop to attend during this time frame.
Sunday | 11-11:50am
Invitation to Silence (EHD, Ch3) (2nd Floor Lounge) Be Before You Do. In a world that celebrates constant activity and achievement, there is an invitation to “Be Before We Do” - to cultivate a deep, inner life with God before engaging in outward ministry or service for Him. In this session we will learn practical ways to slow down, how to embrace stillness, and discover the value of developing emotional and spiritual maturity rooted in communion with Jesus. (Brittany Lang)
Invitation to Sabbath (EHD, Ch5) (1st Floor Lounge) In a culture driven by hustle, noise, and endless to-dos, God offers a sacred rhythm of rest through the gift of Sabbath. In this session, we’ll trace the roots of Sabbath in the Old Testament, explore the blessings of honoring it, and consider the consequences of neglecting it. We’ll also reflect on how the New Testament deepens our understanding, while honestly naming the cultural resistance we face today. Through biblical insight, personal story, and practical guidance, you’ll be invited to reconsider the role of Sabbath in your life—and how it might become a wellspring of restoration and connection with God. (Phill Olson)
Invitation to Godly Grief (EHD, Ch6) (Carver Board Room) Godly grief is an essential aspect of our discipleship. The losses that we navigate in our stories can host sacred spaces for encounters with God that are extremely precious and formative in the context of our lives. Permission to grieve. Come learn about navigating through godly grief with Jesus and in community. (Cheryl Reider)
Invitation to Presence (EHD, Ch7) (Chapel) Love is the measure of maturity, but without presence there can be no love. Noise and distraction conspire against our ability to be present to God, to our own hearts, and to others. Let us be people who intentionally cultivate the space and stillness in our lives in which love can flourish. In this workshop, we will consider spiritual practices that train our hearts toward greater awareness of the gifts and opportunities in each present moment. (Nancy Wheatley)
Invitation to Face Your Past (EHD, Ch8) (Multi-Purpose Room) Part of the hard work of moving forward in discipleship is taking a look backward. Our families of origin shape who we are and impact our ministry more than we realize. When we are willing to look at both the weaknesses and blessings of our family history, our discipleship and leadership are raised to new levels. This workshop will give an opportunity to examine our families of origin and explore the freedom found in the new family of Jesus. (Marti Grahl)
Devotional Guide
Our theme this weekend is “Come Alive!” You are invited to spend time alone with God each day, journaling through the prompts provided in your blank notebook, and giving the Holy Spirit time to speak to you from these passages.
Daily Office #1 Reading: Ezekiel 37:1–3
"Son of man, can these bones live?"
Reflection Questions:
What is surfacing in your heart at the start of this retreat?
What is highlighted to you in this passage?
What does God want to speak to you today?
The Valley: What “valley” are you standing in right now? Are there places in your life that feel like dry bones—disconnected, lifeless, or forgotten? Ask the Holy Spirit to walk with you in that place. Listen for the Lord’s question: Can these bones live? What is your honest answer?
Daily Office #2 Reading: Ezekiel 37:4–6
"Prophesy to these bones and say to them, ‘Dry bones, hear the word of the Lord!’"
Reflection Questions:
What is surfacing in your heart today?
What is highlighted to you in this passage?
What does God want to speak to you today?
The Word of the Lord: God invites Ezekiel to speak life into what is dead. What areas in your life is God asking you to speak His Word over? What promises has He given you that need to be re-spoken with faith? Ask the Lord: What truth do You want me to declare today?
Daily Office #3 Reading: Ezekiel 37:7–10
"So I prophesied... and breath entered them; they came to life and stood up on their feet—a vast army."
Reflection Questions:
What is surfacing in your heart this afternoon?
What is highlighted to you in this passage?
What does God want to speak to you today?
The Breath: Notice the difference between structure (bones, tendons, flesh) and breath. Are there parts of your spiritual life or ministry that look right outwardly but lack the breath of God? Ask the Holy Spirit to breathe into you again. What does it look like to truly come alive?
Daily Office #4 Reading: Ezekiel 37:11–14
"I will put my Spirit in you and you will live."
Reflection Questions:
What is surfacing in your heart today at the close of the retreat?
What is highlighted to you in this passage?
What does God want to speak to you today?
The Promise: God promises restoration, renewal, and His Spirit. As you return home, what fresh hope or calling is He planting in you? What does “coming alive” look like in your next season? Ask God for a vision of the resurrected you, standing in hope and filled with His Spirit.
Daily Office #5 Reading Ezekiel 37:14
“I will put my Spirit in you and you will live, and I will settle you in your own land.”
Reflection Questions:
What do you sense the Spirit of God has breathed into you this weekend?
What is the “land” He is sending you back to?
What would it look like to live as someone who has truly come alive?
The Sending: Coming alive isn’t just for the mountaintop—it’s for the everyday. God doesn’t just restore us; He settles us. As you go home, you’re not leaving the encounter behind—you’re carrying it with you. Ask Him: Lord, how do You want me to live differently, now that You’ve breathed Your Spirit into me?
Daily Office #6
Wait in silence before God.
Daily Office Resources
A GUIDE FOR FIXED HOUR OF PRAYER
SILENCE: Wait on the Lord and pay attention to what He brings to mind.
EXPRESSION: Share with the Lord what surfaces in your heart.
SCRIPTURE: Choose one scripture to pray slowly multiple times, noting what invitation the Holy Spirit is giving you in it.
MORNING
We begin our day giving God praise, affirming His presence with us, and devoting our work to His leadership and love.
[Silence->Expression->Scripture]
AFTERNOON
We pause to get re-centered in God’s presence, seeking discernment of His will on matters, and devoting the remainder of our day to His leadership and love. We intercede over needs.
[Silence->Expression->Scripture]
EVENING
We reflect on our experiences of the day, inviting the Holy Spirit to convict and affirm us, confessing our sins, and celebrating our successes. We release our day and burdens into the hands of the Father, trusting Him with our needs as we rest in His Presence.
[Silence->Expression->Scripture]
Activities and Free Time
Free-Time Activities to Enjoy
Pool (10a-10p)
Bocce
Mini Golf
Patio
Volleyball
Games
Walks
Hikes
Lakeside Solitude
Lakeside Chats
Altar Prayer Ministry
Naps
Take a friend if you go exploring! :)
Scheduled Activities to Enjoy
Friday, 9pm Talk Story and Ice Cream
Saturday, 1:15pm Waterfall Hike (Est. 1.5 hours, 2 miles RT)
1:15pm Waterfall Hike (Depart from Lobby, 2mi, Est. 1.5 Hrs)
1:15-2:15pm Hymn Sing Along (Chapel)
2-4pm Boating (Canoes) (Meet @ North Waterfront)
3pm & 4pm Pontoon Boat Ride (Must Sign Up)
Saturday, 6:30pm Silence
Saturday, 9pm Altar Prayer Ministry / Free Time
Upcoming Events & Next Steps
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Retreat Dates for 2026: May 22-24, 2026 (Tentative, Save the Date!)
Partner with ConnectUp through giving. Monthly supporters are the most dependable source of income for this ministry. Contact your Branch Director for a link to give locally (recommended), for Central Team Members visit: iconnectup.net/partner. Offerings and financial gifts can be given at iconnectup.net/give.
Additional Prayer Resources
BREATH PRAYER (Continuous Prayer)
What name of God do you most relate to or need in this season? What is a single statement of prayer that feels authentic and important to you in this season? Write a sentence or two breath prayer.
And/or, choose a scripture to pray steadily.
DAILY OFFICE (Fixed Hour of Prayer)
SILENCE: Wait on the Lord and pay attention to what He brings to mind.
EXPRESSION: Share with the Lord what surfaces in your heart.
SCRIPTURE: Choose one scripture to pray slowly multiple times, noting what invitation the Holy Spirit is giving you in it.
LECTIO DIVINA (Bible Meditation)
Read (Lectio) - Listen for a word or phrase addressed to me.
Reflect (Meditatio) - How is my life touched by this word? What in my life or heart needs to hear this?
Respond (Oratio) = What is my response to God based on all of this?
Rest (Contemplatio) - Now that I’ve given my full response, rest in God’s love. What is He saying?
PRAYER OF EXAMEN (Reflection & Confession)
How was God present with me today? What promptings did I notice? How did I respond or not respond?
Become aware if something wasn’t quite right in yourself, name the failure, name what was going on inside, practice confession, receive forgiveness.
Become aware of something that was good in yourself, name the success, name what was going on inside, practice loving yourself through celebrating who you are with God, receive His affirmation.
PRAYER OF DISCERNMENT (Guidance & Direction)
Prayer of Indifference
Prayer for Wisdom
What does love call for in this situation? What would love do?
Consolation/Desolation
Confirmation (internal and external)
CU Retreat Schedule - May 23-25, 2025
Friday, May 23rd
3-5pm Check-in & Registration
5pm Dinner
6:30pm Prayer Orientation + Daily Office (Evening Prayer)
7pm Gathering #1 (Chapel)
9pm Talk Story + Ice Cream
Saturday, May 24th
7:30am Daily Office (Morning Prayer)
8am Breakfast
9am Gathering #2 (Chapel)
9:30am Break
9:45am Workshops I
10:45am Break
11am Workshops II
12pm Daily Office (Midday Prayer)
12:30pm Lunch
1pm Free Time
1-5pm Pool + Outdoor Patio Games + Naps
1:15pm Waterfall Hike (Depart from Lobby, 2mi, Est. 1.5 Hrs)
1:15-2:15pm Hymn Sing Along (Chapel)
2-4pm Boating (Canoes) (Meet @ North Waterfront)
3pm & 4pm Pontoon Boat Ride (Must Sign Up)
5pm Dinner (Tech Sabbath)
6:30pm Silence / Daily Office (Evening Prayer) (Chapel)
7pm Gathering #3 (Chapel)
9pm Altar Ministry + Free Time, Pool + Game Room (Open until 10pm)
Sunday, May 25th
7:30am Daily Office (Morning Prayer)
8am Breakfast
9am Team Meetings (Various Locations)
10am Break (Check out before 10am!)
10:30am Gathering #4 (Chapel)
11:30am Daily Office (Midday Prayer)
11:45am Group Photo (Wear your shirt!)
12pm Lunch
1pm Departures
Camp Ladore Map & Info
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Contact Information
General Questions, Lodge Front Desk: 570–488–6129
Time Sensitive Assistance, Mitch Luse Cell: 301-529-3945
Emergency: 911