06/04/2026
To My Ministry Friends (John Roberts)
I am so thankful for my time at Sabbath rest. When I REFLECT on my time there, I think of THREE WORDS. Pace. Prayer and providence.
PACE - First, let me speak of the pace. Life in this world, life in ministry, is pretty fast-paced. I love how being away from my commitments and nestled in the quiet woods of Missouri really helped me slow down and make more time to REST and RECONNECT with God.
PRAYER - I am so thankful for ALL THE PEOPLE who PRAYED FOR ME while I was on retreat. For me personally, it led to a lot of meaningful prayer time because I was away from home and the hustle and bustle of ministry. I felt that my family and I were being covered in prayer. Thank you. Thank you.
PROVIDENCE - I believe God works out everything for his will, and I'm thankful for TWO THINGS regarding God's providence and this retreat. Being at Sabbath Rest allowed me to read Mark Batterson's book, Whisper. It was on the shelf in my room, and it really spoke to my heart. The reason I went on this trip was to FIND A WYA TO SEEK and HEAR God's voice. This book answers the question, " HOW do I be the kind of person who listens to God?" It really was an answer to my own prayers.
Also, providentially, I'm glad I got to meet Ed Shirrell . His story and his walk with the Lord were a great encouragement to me. I found a new brother in Christ whom I really appreciate. And I so give thanks to God for all that Ed and his supporters are doing with Sabbath rest. Every pastor who can should make time to be there.
John Roberts
Senior Pastor
Eden Church
Edwardsville, Illinois
MISSION STATEMENT – to provide a place for ministers and their spouses to experience a Sabbath Rest (Rest, Refocus and Renew) to accomplish their God-given calling.
QUESTIONS – who can come? Credentialed ministers (pastors, staff pastors, evangelists) who are currently in ministry and spouse ONLY, no children, family or pets. Cost is $ 50 per night.
HOW to make a reservation? Contact me at [email protected] 573-238-7769
1800 ministers leave the ministry “MONTHLY” in America = 21,000 “YEARLY”. There are over 2500 pastors within a two-hour drive of Sabbath Rest.
We have a LODGE with two identical suites “upstairs.” Each has 2 queen beds, kitchenette with microwave and fridge, full bathroom with shower. Downstairs has full-kitchen, large dining room, large fireplace room, library, desk and resources; and 2 bath rooms. For those who physically challenged, we just completed a COTTAGE with NO STEPS or STAIRS; king bed, full-kitchen and large bathroom with shower, library and resources.
Photos on FB - Sabbath Rest Retreat and our website….Sabbathrest.net
LOCATION - 3 hours South of the St. Louis Arch and 45 minutes West of Cape Girardeau. 45 minutes NE of Poplar Bluff, 90 minutes SE of Farmington And 90 minutes NE of Corning, AR.
Prior to founding Sabbath Rest Ministry, Ed & Karen have served as lead pastors for 36 years.
You can also follow us on Facebook @ Sabbath Rest Retreat
Sabbath Rest Ministry is a 501 (C) (3) non-profit corporation (non-denominational) and gifts are tax deductible. There are no salaries at Sabbath Rest and construction labor is provided by volunteers.
Lam 3:22-23 The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. GREAT is HIS FAITHFULNESS; his mercies begin afresh each morning.
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