By Garry Sanossian
Fifty-five elders from more than 20 churches across our network gathered in August at Stanwell Tops for the third annual Elders Retreat, with some travelling from as far as Albury for a weekend of connection, refreshment, and learning.
The retreat was hosted and organised by Lloyd Irwin from Northgate church (Belrose), Meredith Harmer from Coast Community church, and Nathan Marshall (Network Resource Team) who have been facilitating the Empowering Elders initiative over the past three years. Its focus on spiritual formation has provided an opportunity for church elders to step back from the demands of daily ministry and reconnect with their personhood and role as spiritual leaders.
“It’s easy for elders to feel alone in their churches, seeking to lead as God’s people in changing times and facing new problems on a regular basis,” said Lloyd.
“Our strategy is helping elders as teams and individuals feel part of a larger network of shared wisdom and experience that supports and equips them for their role.”
This year’s retreat centred on the theme “Welcome to the Good Life,” facilitated by guest facilitator Bruce Hulme from Talking The Walk. Bruce shared insights from his PhD research on slowing down to experience the life of God and the Spirit’s forming presence and wisdom.
Bruce Hulme speaking at the Elders Retreat.
A labyrinth was offered for spiritual reflection in pairs.Bruce also invited participants to explore fundamental questions around how they are shaped, and what they are shaped for, encouraging elders to walk a labyrinth as a way of reflection and conversation.
Elders engaging in a workshop activity.
The weekend also featured Tanya Tindale as artist in residence, working clay at the pottery wheel as a visual reminder of the biblical truth that “we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand” from Isaiah 64:8.
“There is a real, felt sense that eldership is a big and challenging commitment,” Nathan Marshall, Head of Network Relationships (Interim) with the Network Resource Team, explained.
“Trying to integrate discernment and deep listening to the Spirit’s voice is work that can often get pushed aside for the more pragmatic and urgent challenges.”
Nathan highlighted that the retreat created space for deeper reflection. “Over the weekend, elders were able to reflect their desire to lean into ‘spaciousness’, learning to go at a pilgrim’s speed, allowing God to do His work – rather than doing it before Him or for Him!
“The big encouragement was to see elders feeling seen, appreciated and loved for the work they do tirelessly in prayer and action in their churches,” Lloyd said.
Elders had opportunities to connect and share.
“We hope to encourage elders to keep going and stay serving to support the health and strength of our churches.”
The retreat represents part of a broader strategy to support church elders in their collaboration with pastors to shepherd their congregations towards green pastures and still waters; enabling churches to flourish as witnesses in their communities. Elders were invited to express interest for a learning cohort to continue the journey with Bruce Hulme in 2026. More information about this program will be available soon.
If you would like to enquire about this offering in 2026, please email us at hello@ccnswact.org.au.
