A Place to Breathe: JIR Foundation’s First Pastors’ Retreat in the Philippines

JIR Foundation’s first-ever pastors’ retreat at Hacienda Isabella brought together 19 pastors and their spouses for four days of rest, training, and renewed purpose.

For many pastors, rest is a rare luxury. Ministry demands are constant, and moments to pause—truly pause—are few. That’s why, from January 13–16, 2025, the JIR Foundation hosted its first-ever Pastors’ Retreat and Leadership Conference, offering a space to recharge, reconnect, and be reminded that their work matters.

Set at Hacienda Isabella, a peaceful retreat estate in the Philippines owned and graciously hosted by Kuh Ledesma—renowned singer, entrepreneur, and JIR board member—the four-day event welcomed 19 pastors and their wives for a carefully designed time of rest and leadership development.

Practical Learning, Meaningful Encouragement

The retreat featured leadership sessions led by Pastor Jeriel Lubaton, a certified John Maxwell trainer and JIR board treasurer. Sessions such as “How To Be A Real Success” and “Laws of Growth” offered real-world tools and timeless principles for those leading in challenging ministry contexts. After leading several sessions, Pastor Jeriel reflected on the experience personally, saying, “I came out more blessed than I ever imagined.”

Pastor Bennie Lagos, board member and speaker, shared on the topic of divine appointments, reminding attendees of the significance of their calling and the value of staying faithful even in seasons of fatigue.

The schedule also included couple-building activities, optional skills workshops like time management and lesson planning, and intentional space for conversations, reflection, and rest.

Time Well Spent

Pastors often carry burdens in silence—expected to lead, teach, and serve without pause. The retreat offered something different: the chance to be ministered to. Over shared meals, breakout activities, and quiet conversations, bonds were formed. Pastors met others who understood their path, their pressures, and their purpose.

Pastors, their spouses, and JIR Foundation board members gather for a group photo during the 2025 Pastors’ Retreat—a time of learning, rest, and shared encouragement.

Many attendees spoke about how refreshing it was simply to be listened to without expectation. For couples, the opportunity to reflect together—away from church responsibilities—brought renewal and clarity. The intentional slowing down allowed space for laughter, encouragement, and healing.

The presence of Kuh Ledesma and singer Dingdong Avanzado added layers of inspiration. Their personal reflections on faith, career, and calling resonated deeply. They didn’t speak from a platform—they shared from the heart.

Why Retreats Like This Matter

While comprehensive statistics on pastoral well-being in developing countries are limited, growing research and ministry experience reveal a clear reality: pastors serving in low- and middle-income nations often endure overwhelming pressure with limited support.

A global study published in the Universal Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities notes that 1,700 pastors leave the ministry each month, largely due to burnout, depression, and overwork. Over 90% of pastors reportedly work between 55 to 70 hours per week, and half struggle to meet the demands of their calling¹.

One multiple-case study focusing on Filipino Protestant clergy families also highlights significant stress caused by financial instability, intense ministry expectations, and the absence of external support systems. Many rely solely on spiritual practices and family encouragement to cope².

For the pastors supported by JIR Foundation—many of whom serve in remote or under-resourced communities—opportunities for rest, renewal, or leadership development are rare. This retreat created space not only to learn but to breathe. It validated their work, strengthened their marriages, and reminded them that they are not alone in ministry.

As Pastor Bennie reflected, “This retreat affirmed why JIR does what it does. The need is great—and our support matters.”

Looking Forward

This retreat was made possible through the generosity of the LB Charitable Foundation, which supports a wide range of causes including nonprofit services, human and health services, homelessness, veterans, religious outreach, anti-trafficking efforts, and animal welfare.

With the leadership of board members Henry and Monica Chen, Delilah and Jeriel Lubaton, Bennie Lagos, and the hospitality of Kuh Ledesma, the retreat became a space where leaders could breathe again.

Above all, it was possible because pastors took the courageous step to show up—for themselves, their families, and their calling.

Join Us in This Mission

JIR Foundation remains committed to supporting pastors, missionaries, and their families—not just through resources, but through relationships and renewal. This first retreat marks a meaningful beginning, with more to come.

If you believe in uplifting those who uplift others, partner with us. Your support helps provide rest, training, and encouragement for the frontline servants of faith.

Sources:

¹ Universal Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities – “Burnout among Pastors: A Global Perspective.” https://www.scipublications.com/journal/index.php/ujssh/article/view/388

² ResearchGate – “Understanding the Stresses and Coping Resources of Filipino Clergy Families: A Multiple-Case Study.” https://www.researchgate.net/publication/301644158_Understanding_the_Stresses_and_Coping_Resources_of_Filipino_Clergy_Families_A_Multiple-Case_Study