What is Returned & Renewed?
Everyone knows that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints does a wonderful job of providing an immersive experience for those preparing to serve full-time missions. Unfortunately, that immersive experience is not available for them upon transitioning back from full-time service into their post-mission lives.
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This was one of the hardest times in my life. I came home, I did not feel supported. I felt alone. I felt like I was drowning, but at the same time, I didn't even know if I should be trying to swim or just let the waves beat against me. As I have worked with individuals and families, it is clear that return missionaries need some additional resources, a sense of community, and an understanding of where to go next.
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For this purpose, my wife and I created the Returned & Renewed, a retreat-based company. In these four-day, three-night retreats, we focus on providing return missionaries the foundation for a successful post-mission transition. We teach how to identify purpose, create and maintain meaningful connections, maintain spiritual momentum, and work on personal development.
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The price of the retreat covers a bed to sleep in and a beautiful home environment where peace, prayer, and reflection can occur. Included also are dinner on night one, three meals on days two and three, a party on night three, and breakfast on the day of ending the retreat. Retreat members will receive a copy of The Daily Becoming Planner, an R&R gift bag, and a certificate of completion.
Where is R&R currently hosting retreats?
- R&R is currently occurring in the metropolis of Phoenix, Arizona. We will be expanding as our reach and demand increase.
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Is R&R appropriate for missionaries who didn't serve a full two years or eighteen months, or who served service missions?
- At R&R, we do not talk about time served. We focus on experiences, both the good and the bad. If a retreat member decides to disclose their background, that is a personal decision, but not a topic that facilitators will ask. In our call to determine if this is a good fit, we can talk about how to work around this sometimes difficult topic.
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How much do R&R retreats cost?
- The cost fluctuates based on the venue that will be used for the retreat, which varies due to location and number of participants. The price will be presented during the intake call and presented for the individual and family to make an informed decision. There are no secrets. Transparency is a huge value for Retruned & Renewed and we want you to make the right decision for your family, so visit the link below to learn more about our services.
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Is this only for men? or is there an option for women?
-Returned & Renewed is for both men and women. During each retreat, there will be a private location for the men and for the women. All retreat members during the stay will be in a home with other return missionaries of the same sex. The party on the third night is when both locations come together to spend the evening, and then will go back to their respective locations.
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Who are the leaders at the retreat?
- Cortland Watson and Simone Watson are the ones staying in the homes with the return missionaries. As demand increases, the retreats will be hosted by other individuals, which will be announced in this section.
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Is R&R affiliated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints?
- We are not currently affiliated with the church. Although we are not affiliated, we strive to align ourselves with the doctrines and policies of the church. As we talk about repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, we talk about guilt and shame and being able to rely on him to move forward and become.
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