The success of any church is largely dependent on the spiritual and emotional health of its staff, yet many ministers are isolated, overworked, under-resourced, and lack access to effective support systems. While pastoral work has always been difficult, a notable decrease in the number of individuals entering ministry as a first career, a lack of adequate training for many second-career pastors, and the growing pressures of reaching an increasingly post-Christian culture create special challenges for those serving today. These challenges place added demands on the spouses and families of church staff, a reality that can threaten a minister’s home life. No one should be expected to sacrifice their marriage and children to serve a church.

Participating couples will be paired with David and Donna Vaughan or a seasoned ministry couple on a structured pathway of learning, coaching, conversation, and planning that includes a weekend getaway at the coach’s home. The retreat will emphasize rest, reflection on learnings and assessments, and focused discussion around topics relating to maintaining a healthy marriage and family while serving a church. Participants will also make specific plans to regularly engage in practices that protect against burnout, including 12 months of follow-up coaching. To ensure confidentiality and encourage transparency, only two couples may participate in each retreat, with emphasis on 1:1 interactions (no “group sessions”).

Donna Vaughan (pictured), serves as the Director of Home Fires. Donna met David when they were 15 & 16 years of age and married in 1981. As a pastor’s wife for more than 40 years, Donna has a heart for women in ministry.

Donna is an identical twin, loves horseback riding, and is partial to her home state of Virginia. She always looks forward to using her gift of hospitality by hosting Home Fires retreats.