At Rooted: Reconnect, faith formation leaders in the Michigan Conference discovered a day of worship, learning, connecting with others, and soul care.
Faith formation leaders gathered on October 16, 2025, at University United Methodist Church in East Lansing for a day of renewal with peers, titled Rooted: Reconnect.
A design team, with the support of the Michigan Conference’s Connectional Ministries Team, planned this event for faith formation leaders serving any age group. It was especially structured for lay church staff and volunteers, and those who lead from the “second chair,” individuals who have leadership responsibilities but are not the primary person in charge.
Rooted: Reconnect was an accessible, in-person renewal opportunity for ministry leaders in the Michigan Conference. The tiered fee structure, which made it affordable, was made possible thanks to Ministry Shares from generous Michigan United Methodist churches and the Christian Education Sunday offering, received by local churches each August.
Rev. Kathy Pittenger, Associate Director for Connectional Ministries, who was the conference staff person assisting the design team in planning Rooted: Reconnect, was grateful for all who took time out of their busy schedules to attend this time of renewal. She and the design team leaders hope to have other Rooted events in the near future.
She noted, “This retreat was a wonderful day of worship, learning, connecting, and time to slow down! Those who gathered were able to worship through song, a message, and the remembering of our baptisms. The workshops offered time to reflect on our purpose, self-care / soul care, and working on a staff team. Attendees had the option of a chair massage, time at the prayer stations, and time to connect with other leaders.”
Attendees expressed their appreciation to the event leaders and the Michigan Conference for this opportunity:
“We all need time to slow down and be in community with those who do the same things we do — this was so very well done.”
“I need to make sure to make time for me to worship and reconnect with God. Even when I get busy with work stuff.”
“Rooted provided space to step away from the day-to-day rhythm and remember that I am also a child of God, and that I do this ministry to encourage others to grow in relationship with God.”
“It helped me to be with others who serve and to be fed, both spiritually and literally. I also felt very loved and supported by the event, as you could feel the thoughtfulness that went into the planning.”
“Allow for silent time to be still, quiet the ‘noise,’ and let the Holy Spirit in.”
“Being able to worship and actually be in worship without all the interruptions, and being able to meet new people in workshops who are growing and learning too.”
Last Updated on November 5, 2025