Deep Water Retreat

Where Deep Meets Deep

Psalm 42

42% of pastors have considered leaving full-time ministry (post-pandemic); nearly 4 in 10 in recent surveys.

65% report active burnout; feelings of loneliness have risen since 2015 (from 42% feeling frequent isolation)

Backbone

Small churches, often defined as those with fewer than 100 attendees on a typical weekend, form the backbone of American Christianity. They represent the majority of congregations but face unique hurdles in sustainability, growth, and leadership. Based on recent data (primarily from 2023-2025 sources), the U.S. has approximately 375,000 churches, with small ones dominating the landscape. These churches serve millions but often operate on tight budgets, with limited resources for full-time staff or programs. Your ministry, Deep Water Retreat, aligns well with their needs by offering retreats for pastors and families (addressing burnout and isolation), pulpit supply (filling preaching gaps), and worship support (enhancing services without straining limited volunteers).