Why ShelteringTree Exists

From the Founder

Many years ago, God began placing a burden on my heart for pastors, missionaries, and ministry families who faithfully pour themselves out in service to others, often with very little opportunity to step away and be renewed. Through church service, mission experiences, and relationships with ministry leaders, I saw how difficult it can be for those who care for others to find the time, space, and resources to rest.

At first, I imagined creating a retreat property of my own—a place where ministry leaders and their families could receive hospitality and renewal without worrying about the cost of lodging. The vision remained, but the timing and the model were not yet clear.

Years later, through prayer, research, and God’s continued prompting, a different possibility began to emerge. Rather than waiting to own one retreat property, what if existing homes with available nights could become places of sanctuary? What if property owners, donors, churches, and other believers could work together to create opportunities for rest on a much greater scale?

That realization became the foundation of ShelteringTree Ministries. Host partners may offer donated or verified at-cost availability, while donors help support the direct expenses connected to confirmed retreat stays. Together, their generosity allows pastors, missionaries, and ministry leaders to receive restorative lodging without charge.

My prayer is that every ShelteringTree retreat will be more than time away. I pray it becomes sacred space—an opportunity to encounter God’s presence, receive renewal, reconnect with loved ones, and return strengthened for the work ahead.