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When planning an event for a ministry or organization you will need to decide whether it will be a retreat or conference -– but what’s the difference between the two? Retreats and conferences serve different purposes and choosing the right one for your event based on your goals and vision can help make it a success.

What’s a retreat? 

Typically, a retreat is an intimate, focused event where attendees can get away from the rush of daily life to spend time in spiritual reflection, prayer, and fellowship. The primary purpose of a retreat is rest and spiritual growth. It’s often held over a weekend or a few days and encourages deep introspection, renewal, and connection with God and others. Retreats are ideal for small groups (e.g., church groups, women’s ministries, family retreats) or individuals who need rest and renewal.

Key features of retreats:

Focus on Rest- Retreats are often focused on resting and ‘filling up one’s cup’. They gift attendees with the ability to unwind and rest in God’s presence away from the normal distractions of life. 

Relaxed Schedule– The pace is slower, with less focus on structured workshops and more emphasis on relaxation, fellowship, and connecting with the Savior.

Spiritual Renewal– Retreats focus on connecting with God through worship, prayer, and small group discussion time. 

What’s a conference?

A conference is typically a larger event with the purpose of educating and encouraging attendees with the added benefit of networking. Conferences have schedules filled with keynote sessions led by knowledgeable speakers, workshops or breakout sessions, and networking opportunities. This is ideal for larger groups (e.g., church congregations, ministry leaders, youth groups) or those wanting to learn from or network with likeminded people. 

Key features of conferences:

Networking– Conferences tend to draw larger crowds and offer more opportunities for networking and connecting with like-minded individuals.
Educational Content- Sessions are often centered around relevant topics such as theology, leadership, ministry, and spiritual growth.
Engaging Speakers & Workshops: Conferences feature speakers who share their expertise and insight, as well as interactive workshops that foster discussion and skill-building.

No matter what event type you decide on, the most important thing is that your event serves the needs of your attendees. Retreats offer rest and renewal, while conferences provide education and connection. At Ridgecrest, we’re here to help you create an unforgettable event that will leave a lasting impact on your attendees.

We’d love to help you plan your next event! Reach out to us today to learn more about our services and how we can support your event planning journey.