Features

Church workers are invited to enjoy a peaceful one- or two-night retreat at LOMC’s Freedom Tree Village, where private rooms with bathrooms provide a comfortable space to work, pray, and rest. Guests have access to the main gathering space of Marander/Dody Lodge, a cozy great room with seating by the fireplace. With over 600 acres of forest and prairie, there are endless opportunities to hike, fish, and reconnect with nature. WiFi is available for those who need to stay connected, and while meals are not provided, a mini fridge, small microwave, and coffee maker are available for use. Oregon, IL offers a variety of restaurants, and meal delivery is available to our Hospitality Center through Chowdown OTown.

Who Is This For?

Ministry is deeply rewarding, but it also requires time, space, and renewal. Whether you’re planning a sermon series, designing a Bible study, mapping out a mission trip, or reimagining your congregation’s ministries, LOMC provides a peaceful setting to focus without distractions. This retreat is also an opportunity to step away, rest, and recharge—no agenda required.

The Church Workers Retreat is open to all ELCA church workers, both paid and volunteer. We welcome pastors, deacons, youth leaders, music directors, faith formation leaders, and anyone engaged in the life of the church. All guests must complete a a current WAIVER before their stay.

Registration and Cost

Church workers are welcome to book a retreat at LOMC year-round, with weekday stays preferred. Limited weekend availability may be possible, though larger groups will take scheduling priority up to a week in advance. We encourage guests to register within 30 days of their intended stay.

Thanks to generous donations from churches and individuals, LOMC has a Scholarship Fund dedicated to supporting church workers in need of rest and renewal. These funds can cover the full cost of a retreat, though we invite guests to make a free-will donation to help sustain this resource for others. The current per-night cost is $95, and all contributions go directly back into the Scholarship Fund to assist future church workers seeking time away in creation.