ministry in motion...
The history of RENEWING GRACE TOGETHER is a testament to the transformative power of vision, dedication, and adaptability. From its humble beginnings rooted in the heartfelt aspirations of ministry leaders in 1992 to its formal establishment as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 2016, the organization has journeyed through years marked by resilience, service, and profound impact. Guided by the belief in nurturing the well-being of pastors and their families, RENEWING GRACE TOGETHER has evolved in response to the changing needs of its community, forging deep connections and leaving a permanent mark on the lives it touches. This history section chronicles the remarkable story of RENEWING GRACE TOGETHER, illuminating the milestones, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped its path to becoming a beacon of renewal and restoration for pastors nationwide.
1992
Pastors express to Chris & Wyndy Penner, founders of Renewing Grace Together, a vision of the Penner’s hosting retreats for pastors and their spouses.
2000/2001
Chris volunteers to oversee food preparation for a large camp. As a result, Chris inadvertently receives full leadership responsibilities.
2002
Wyndy was prompted to work directing camps, leading many pastors and families to attend and express gratitude.
2015
Chris & Wyndy consider the future of the camps they have been leading and the impact of their work with pastors. Decision to create a nonprofit is made, and steps are taken to do so.
2016
Renewing Grace Together is born, officially becoming a 501(c) (3) nonprofit with a purpose statement centered around ministering to families through camps, retreats, and conferences.
2017
The first Pastoral Family Camp is held at Twin Oaks Ranch, Buda, Texas, while continuing family camp at H.E. Butt Foundation Camp, Leakey, Texas. Hurricane Harvey relief efforts begin by outfitting homes for those displaced.
2018
The organization continues to serve those affected by Hurricane Harvey, hosting and guiding groups nationwide. Individual Pastoral Retreats also begin.
2019
Continued service to those overcoming Hurricane Harvey, including those battling suicide and displacement. Pastoral Family Camp is hosted at Sky Ranch. Began ministering at the Center for Nonprofits in Rogers, AR.
2020
Amidst global changes, Renewing Grace Together adapts by hosting pastoral mini-retreats via private cabin rentals and a recreational vehicle, providing meals and emotional support.
Individual Pastoral Retreats continue.
Individual Pastoral Retreats continue.
2021
Cabin Mini-Retreats and hosting retreats in Eureka Springs, AR, begin with other vacation rentals and homes opening up for hosting.
2022
New avenues open up, including providing specialty dinners to Kenyan pastors, first pastoral retreat in Cambodia and offering respite for spouses of those in ministry.
2023
Individual Day Retreats for Pastors are well-received, and tailored, individualized Pastoral/Couple Retreats continue.
A Marble Falls, TX, church open their doors for Renewing Grace Together to use their offices.
Began small sharing gatherings, providing guests insights from behind-the-scenes insights from different pastors.
A Marble Falls, TX, church open their doors for Renewing Grace Together to use their offices.
Began small sharing gatherings, providing guests insights from behind-the-scenes insights from different pastors.
2024
Five donors open their time-share options to provide retreats for pastoral families.
Hosted first two Pastoral Sharing large events, opening eyes and hearts to the realities of pastoral families' joys and little known challenges.
Hosted first two Pastoral Sharing large events, opening eyes and hearts to the realities of pastoral families' joys and little known challenges.
"The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed."
proverbs 11:25
