WAKE Outdoor
Men’s Retreat
watch an introductory video
a deepening adventure for men working in missions
July 20-27, 2025
Wake 2025 is a 7-day/6-night spiritual journey experience in the context of outdoor adventure in the boundary waters canoe area (BWCA) of Minnesota, specifically designed by Barnabas International staff for men working in cross-cultural contexts. Traveling side-by-side with this group of men you will complete a physically challenging journey while being guided through a process of paying attention to your inner journey with God. Each day will provide space to process both in silence and solitude and together in a community of men with similar experiences, all in the context of spectacular outdoor scenery.
Early-bird Pricing: $650* + airfare**
After April 30 the cost will go up by $50. Last day of registration is July 1.
* cost includes all equipment, lodging, meals and transport to/from MSP airport.
**participants will be responsible for travel to MSP airport in Minneapolis. Plan to arrive on Sunday, July 20st before 5pm and leave anytime on Sunday, July 27th (airport drop-off available for earliest flight).
2025 Application
Registration is now open for Wake 2025. However each applicant must first go through an application process Please read our application details below.
This is a Barnabas-subsidized trip. While this trip is open to all full-time missions workers including those working in the USA and ALL are encouraged to apply, we will be giving priority to those applicants who:
- Are currently working or recently (within one year) returned from working in cross-cultural contexts
- Are working within low resource areas, or with displaced people groups
- Raise their own support
- All else being equal, we will honor the order in which applications arrive.
What Can You Expect?
At Barnabas we believe that an intentional pause in ministry, for the purpose of restoration of the body, mind, and soul, has a significant fruitful long-term Kingdom impact. We have intentionally created an adventure retreat that combines rhythms of good old-fashioned exertion, moments of serene beauty and silence, and guided scripture-based experiences.
Introverts will enjoy the quiet mornings and space and silence to process. Extroverts will enjoy the group interaction and sharing of experiences. Expect moments of laughter, of teamwork, and of reflection.
The Boundary Water Canoe Area (BWCA) of northern Minnesota is one of the greatest areas of nearly untouched wilderness in the US. Human-powered canoes are the only permitted forms of transportation. Expect spectacular scenery and escape from modern technology.
Each day will include several hours of paddling, with multiple stops to carry your canoe (portage) and supplies between lakes. You will need to be in decent shape and able to carry a reasonably heavy load over uneven terrain for distances up to a mile (although many are much shorter).
The fishing is great! We supply fishing tackle and lures and instruction if you need it. You will need to buy a MN 7-day fishing license if you want to fish.
All group camping equipment (including tents), canoeing equipment, and food will be provided. Personal camping equipment such as sleeping bags and sleeping pads can also be provided upon request, although you are welcome to bring your own.
