Frequently Asked Questions

So what is "Opening Weekend"?

• Although the weekend is modeled after the Wild at Heart Boot Camp in Colorado (with permission), this is our own, unique offering based on what God is doing in us. Opening Weekend is a four-day journey into the recovery of your masculine heart as outlined in John Eldredge’s book Wild at Heart. Through teaching sessions; film clips; group discussions; guided periods of reflection and journaling; and, question and answer; we have designed something far more than a retreat - it's an expedition of the heart.

Why is it called “Opening Weekend”?

• We believe that the concept of a guided expedition, where men are trained to find and to take their place in life, best describes what this experience is all about. This event is a journey to awaken your heart, to find the path of life and to learn how to fight for your freedom and for the freedom of others. The message is all about advancement: advancing to an understanding of what God meant when he created us in his image as men. Also, the fishing season opens the first Saturday in May.

Will I have to sing, hold hands, or “share”?

• Absolutely not. But, you will have plenty of opportunities for activities that stir the heart like shooting trap, sighting in at the rifle range, riding horses, fishing on the lake, hiking some awesome trails, or telling stories around a campfire.

What's the schedule of the weekend?

• The schedule is purposefully on a need-to-know basis once you arrive. Arrive on Thursday, check in from 5 pm to 6:30 pm; leave on Sunday around noon. If we told you any more, we'd have to kill you.

But I am not really a religious guy?

• PERFECT! This is not about being more religious. Religion is about trying to “get it right,” and doing more stuff in order to please God. We’re not going there.

But I am a religious guy?

• PERFECT! We hope you’ll find real life and freedom in your journey.

Is Opening Weekend based on Wild at Heart?

• The foundation for Opening Weekend is the Bible and specifically, Jesus’ mission to bind up the brokenhearted and proclaim freedom for the captives. The weekend itself is modeled after the Colorado-based Wild at Heart Boot Camps put on by John Eldredge and the Ransomed Heart team (www.ransomedheart.com)

So what about the book Wild at Heart?

• We recommend you read it to prepare yourself for the message of Opening Weekend.

Should I bring a friend or should I come alone?

• We highly encourage you to bring one or two friends along to this camp. In fact, we believe that having another man alongside will only serve to deepen the impact of the weekend as well as help you when you return. You can certainly attend alone. There will be opportunities to meet other men at the camp.

What do I need to bring to the weekend?

• We provide all meals. You will need to bring a sleeping bag, pillow, clothes, personal hygiene items, and any fishing equipment. You will find it very helpful to bring a Bible. You’ll be asked to disconnect so go easy on the electronics. We also advise bringing some money for snacks and optional activities.

Is this a good Father-Son event?

• No, although fathers and adult sons are welcome to attend together, we do advise men not to bring their sons (or fathers) with the notion that this will be a father-son event.

Is there a cancellation policy?

• You bet! Full payment is required at the time your reservation is made for this event. You may cancel your registration and receive a refund of your registration fee up to 30 days prior to the date of the event; however, you will be charged a $50.00 handling fee upon the cancellation of your registration. In the event that you cancel your registration less than 30 days prior to the date of the event, you will forfeit the entire registration fee.