About Us
Thank you for expressing interest in the ministry and services of Agape Wilderness Retreat. Agape Wilderness Retreat is a Christ-centered, non-denominational ministry organization. Our purpose is to provide opportunities for people to experience the abundant life in Jesus Christ!
Agape Wilderness Retreat is set amidst the Kentucky hills just a one-hour drive from Louisville, Lexington, and Cincinnati. The facility is located on an 80-acre pristine mountain top. The Retreat is an oasis from today’s world.
Our Beliefs
We believe the Scriptures, to be the inspired Word of God, without error, and the divine and final authority for all Christian faith and life.
(2 Tim 3:16)
Our Inspiration
We find our inspiration for retreat ministries in the story of Elijah found in I Kings 19. Elijah has just defeated the prophets of Baal when he’s threatened by Jezebel. The story shows many of the important benefits of a time away.
Our Mission
Agape Christian Ministries, Inc. is a Christ-centered, non-denominational organization. Our purpose is to provide opportunities for people to experience the abundant life in Jesus Christ (John 10:10).
Our Beliefs
We believe the Scriptures, to be the inspired Word of God, without error, and the divine and final authority for all Christian faith and life.
(2 Tim 3:16)
Our Inspiration
We find our inspiration for retreat ministries in the story of Elijah found in I Kings 19. Elijah has just defeated the prophets of Baal when he’s threatened by Jezebel. The story shows many of the important benefits of a time away.
Our Mission
Agape Christian Ministries, Inc. is a Christ-centered, non-denominational organization. Our purpose is to provide opportunities for people to experience the abundant life in Jesus Christ (John 10:10).
Our Facilities
The large lodge has 6 bedrooms, 5 baths, and can accommodate up to 30 overnight guests for retreats. There’s an inviting fireplace for winter evenings and a large patio and screened in deck overlooking the lake. You’ll find the dining room a great place to enjoy gourmet home-cooked meals and fellowship!
Two sleeping cabins accommodate an additional 32 guests. Each cabin has 2 sleeping areas with adjoining bath facilities. Next to the sleeping cabins is a large meeting cabin that can accommodate 80 at tables or 150 auditorium style. White boards throughout the room make it a great place for information sharing.
Outdoor activities include campfires, hiking on a multitude of trails, a series of team building initiatives, fishing in the lake, or just enjoying the breathtaking views of God’s creation. A prayer labyrinth and a number of prayer coves are scattered throughout the property where you will find peace and solitude.
Our Ministry Team
Mark Smithson
Retreat Leader
30+ years of leadership experience at Fortune 100 companies. 25+ years of experience in Bible Study Leadership.
Susan Smithson
Retreat Leader
25+ years of experience in Bible Study Leadership. 18 years as Director of Leisure Ministries at Middletown United Methodist Church. Gourmet Cook.
Brad Rumer
Youth Pastor
13+ years ministry experience as a Youth Pastor, Children’s Minister, Worship Leader. Graduate of Boyce Bible College – SBTS.
Peggy Rumer
Worship Leader
Worship leader, Women’s Ministry Leader, Bible Study Leader, Teacher, & Gourmet Cook
Mark Smithson
Retreat Leader
30+ years of leadership experience at Fortune 100 companies. 25+ years of experience in Bible Study Leadership.
Susan Smithson
Retreat Leader
25+ years of experience in Bible Study Leadership. 18 years as Director of Leisure Ministries at Middletown United Methodist Church. Gourmet Cook.