Kevin Burrell loves Ridge Haven, the PCA’s conference center in Brevard, N.C. For him, years of youth ministry meant many trips to Ridge Haven. Last year he contacted Ridge Haven executive director, Wallace Anderson, with an idea to fill a hole he saw in the center’s schedule — it had never offered a conference for young professionals. Ridge Haven shaped the Quarter Life Retreat to fill that opening for years to come.

Burrell’s role as pastor of connections at StoneBridge Church (PCA) in Charlotte, N.C. includes oversight of the young professionals ministry. “In our church, we address ‘moments in life’ rather than marital status. Young professionals are busy people, keeping up with relationships, serving, continuing education, and careers,” he said. “A retreat is a great time to slow the pace and think about navigating relationships in a grace-filled way.”

Anderson says that Ridge Haven is the ideal setting for couples and singles to step out of the whirlwind and breathe in the Gospel during a weekend of worship, Scripture teaching, food, and activities, as well as free time to relax. Justin Clement, Reformed University Fellowship pastor at the University of Georgia, will teach on “Living in Gospel Community: How Grace Changes the Way We See Other.” Along with church groups, Burrell hopes to see carloads of friends from all over the PCA. He said, “Folks from smaller churches that may not have a targeted ministry for young professionals will find a community they don’t have in their church. I think it will be worth their time.”

What:  Quarter Life Retreat

Who:   Young couples and singles in their 20s and 30s

Where:  Ridge Haven Conference and Retreat Center, Brevard, N.C.

When:  April 4-6, 2014

More information: www.ridgehaven.org/quarterlife