Redwood Groups for Pastors

Pastors and ministry leaders are often isolated by the nature of our work. We create safe places for others but find no place to disclose our own feelings, longings, and needs. Unlike most pastors groups, Redwood Groups gather 6-8 pastors every week over the course of 7 months for an intensive, intentional time of telling our stories and being seen where we are. Through asking questions, identifying feelings and desires, and uncovering the real stories we believe, we can encounter the healing grace of Jesus together and return to the pressures of ministry whole.

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Resilience

Redwoods are the tallest trees in the world, rising more than 350 feet. Yet their root systems are remarkably shallow—only 6-10 feet deep. The secret of their stability, longevity, and resilience lies in their interconnected roots, which stretch out over 100 feet, intertwining with the roots of other redwoods. Our hope is to build such connections through intentionally knowing and being known.

Presence, not Suggestions

Pastors are often in the mode of addressing institutional or individual problems. Our groups are facilitated by two pastors whose role is to keep the focus on being known in our struggles, not offering tidy solutions. We ask, “What are you feeling right now?” “What do you want?” “What story are you telling yourself?” both of the individual sharing and groups members as they hear his story. This is how connection strengthens.

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Deep Transformation

When we show up to the weekly groups ready to disclose more of ourselves and engage one another’s disclosures with curiosity and compassion, our very presence, countenance, and assurance that we will show up the next week becomes an avenue for healing. This creates a safe environment in which the grace of Jesus can dispel shame and move each us of toward wholeness.

“Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." - Ecclesiastes 4:12

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For years I have felt alone and held captive to expectations that shaped the words I say and even the emotions I feel. This group has been an answer to my prayers for an honest group of friends that understand me. Moments given to this authentic fellowship have been invaluable, helping me sort out my cluttered heart and bring my whole self to my family and friends.
Lead Pastor in Salisbury, Maryland

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This group is unlike any other I have experienced. What a gift it has been! It has given me relational tools to show up in the world as a better husband, father, pastor, and friend. What has been forged in these months will last a lifetime.
Lead Pastor in Springfield, Virginia

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At one point in writing to the Corinthians, Paul tosses out the phrase, ‘as I am fully known’ (1 Corinthians 13:12). I’ve always thought most humans are probably as conflicted as I am on that one. I do want to be fully known, so at least someone truly knows me. And the prospect of being known that way is often terrifying. Being a part of Chris and Evan’s group has moved me from terrified to the safe place of being known by other men, other pastors, who are for me no matter what state I am in on any particular day. I commend their methodology and practice to you.
Lead Pastor in Salida, Colorado

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This group has shown me the power of showing up for one another. When we show up for each other honestly, intentionally, and prayerfully, God has moved and I have been blessed. This group has become more than just friends, they have become brothers.
Lead Pastor in Annapolis, Maryland

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Honestly, I came into this group with doubts about whether it would be worth the investment. But week after week, the Lord graciously showed me how much my soul needed to be known and loved by guys who “get it,” who understand the pain of life and leadership and the Savior who meets us in it. To me, it was a glimpse of the coming kingdom where our masks will completely fall off and we will be fully seen and embraced by Christ and his church.
Christian Counselor in Iowa

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This group helped me find balance through several major life transitions, both good and bad. Hearing the honesty and openness of others helped me better understand my thoughts and actions. I gained a clearer view of how I arrived at where I am, and the steps I need to take moving forward to keep becoming the person that God wants me to be.
Pastor in Oklahoma

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This group found me when I most needed it, in the midst of transition and distant from my long-time community. I wasn't sure that something online could become crucial to my emotional health, but it has. I am so grateful for this new community of fellow pastors that I have found.
Pastor to Pastors in Arizona

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The group has helped me to not run from challenges in marriage, ministry, and relationships. Being with these men helped me to courageously face my imperfect life smothered in God's grace. I've been blessed in the sessions where I just listened and watched God's grace unfold as much as the ones where I was unpacking my heart and life.
Pastor in Maryland

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Admittedly, I had been putting off being part of a confessional group primarily because I wasn't sure if I could trust a group of guys with some rather personal hurts I have been walking through recently. However, I am forever grateful that I did join this group. The group was encouraging and empathetic and a true brotherhood developed among the men. I would encourage any pastor or leader to join a similar group where they can be known and grow into a better understanding of how we each emotionally process the experiences of our lives.
Pastor to Pastors in Virginia

Come discover a place where you are safely seen, known, and heard.

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FAQ

How much does it cost?
The cost is $2400 for Redwood Groups for Pastors — weekly payments of $80 per session for 30 weekly, 90-minute sessions over 7 months.
These groups are most successful when all participants are present each week, so payment is required regardless of attendance.

When does the group meet?
Our next group will meet on Tuesday afternoons, 2:30 – 4:00 p.m. EST. The group will begin on Tuesday, October 22nd, 2024, and run through May 27th, 2025 with 2 weeks off during the weeks of Christmas and New Year’s.

Do I have to do this in person?
No, Redwood Groups for Pastors meet online.

Are there groups available for women?
We are planning to provide groups for pastors’ wives and ministry leaders. This will follow the same format and pricing structure—facilitated by women, for women. If you are interested in being on the list for one of these groups, please contact us here.

Who are the facilitators?
Chris Davis has been serving as a lead pastor for the past 20 years and has both participated in and led groups for pastors out of a conviction that pastors need a place to be known.

Evan Snyder has been serving in pastoral ministry for over 12 years in various roles. He is currently working on his doctorate degree specializing in Relational Neuroscience and Spiritual Formation. He delights in creating intention within gospel communities with the aim of being known and fighting shame in all its forms.

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