District Staff Retreat 2026

After God’s Own Heart: The Praying Life‍

District Staff Retreat is a time of renewal, rest, and refreshment for CPD licensed workers and their spouses. Each year, we gather in Whistler, BC, for a meaningful time of worship, learning, laughter, encouragement, and connection as a district family. This November, we invite you to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with Jesus and with fellow ministry leaders.

In Acts 13:22, King David is described as a “man after God’s own heart.” Throughout his life we see that no matter the season, whether it's in praise, repentance, sorrow, or anger, King David brought it all before God. Through the Psalms of David, we are given the permission and the words to process and express our deepest thoughts and honest emotions in every season. Join us as we explore how the praying life is part of becoming men and women after God’s own heart.‍

‍Event Details

Date: November 2-5, 2026
‍Location: Westin Resort & Spa in Whistler, BC ‍
Registration Fee: $379/person

‍Meet the Speakers:

Milissa and Jay Ewing serve together as Pastors at Redwood Park Church in Thunder Bay, Ontario: Milissa as the Lead Pastor and Jay as the Pastor of Spiritual Formation. Having been originally called into ministry and pastoring within the CPD, they consider themselves as sent on mission with the call to lead healthy churches and see Holy Spirit-led, whole-city transformation in Jesus’ name. 

In addition to their local church ministry, Jay is a practicing Spiritual Director and Milissa is the National Coordinator of Indigenous Partnerships for The Alliance Canada. They also participate in the strengthening of emerging leaders and Lead Pastors through“The Pastorate,” with the hope of renewal in the broader Church of Canada. 

On the homefront, Jay and Milissa are the parents of two daughters: Aida, a student at Ambrose University, and Claire, who is finishing up high school. As a family, they enjoy good meals,skiing in the winter, and either cycling, running, or swimming in a beautiful lake in the summer.

‍Retreat Schedule