This "Valentines weekend" for married couples has been a favorite for many years at Barakel. The beautiful winter-wonderland of northern Michigan gives you and your spouse a lot to choose from — Tubing (with a tow rope for pulling you back up), Skating, Hockey, Broomball, Cross-Country Skiing, Snowshoeing, Ice Fishing... or you can keep your toes warm by one of our fireplaces! The retreat will begin Friday evening and continue unhurried through the Sunday noon meal.

Our speaker for 2012 is Pastor Jamey Nichols, from First Congregational Church in Stanton, MI. He has been a pastor since 1992, and has been serving at his present church since 2002. Jamey and his wife Michelle were married on Valentine’s Day in 1992, which means that the day after our retreat they will celebrate their twentieth wedding anniversary. They have three children: ages 12, 13, and 15. The 15-year old is taking Driver’s Education! Jamey has a real heart for the Lord and for encouraging people in their journey with the Lord. He’s been coming to Barakel since he was a summer staff person in 1988, and is well-appreciated by the people he has ministered to.

The fee this year — $175 per couple. A registration fee of $100 should accompany the registration form, the balance is due upon arrival. If you are unable to attend the retreat, the registration fee is refundable upon request by January 29.

Housing will be in our East Side Camp cabins - men and women in buildings next door to each other - with an indoor bath. All of the rooms have our recently built bunkbeds with inner spring mattresses. East Side Camp is a short walk from Snow Valley, the center of our outdoor activities.