Marriage Encounter is a 3-day, 2-night weekend comprised of 5 sessions that will challenge you not to retreat from the battle, but to learn to work and fight together as the powerful kingdom couple you were designed to be.

Each session will be filled with live worship, authentic testimonies, and teaching from Dr. David and Terri Sumlin. Couples will participate in creative, experiential-learning exercises designed to strengthen communication skills and identify threats to intimacy and oneness in marriage. You will learn practical and proven biblical truths that have defined 15 years of inspired teaching and testimony birthed by personal encounter with God's redemptive grace and restoration in the Sumlins' own marriage. In addition to the Sumlins' testimony, you will hear testimony from fellow Encounter couples who have found healing and reconciliation in their own broken marriages.

Men's and Women’s Encounters provide a space for individuals to hear from God about their identity, to heal from past hurts, and to grow in their intimacy with Jesus. Marriage Encounters are similarly designed to bring that intimacy into the marriage and to create an environment where restoration is possible and hope is renewed.

Q.) What do I need to bring?

A.) You will have your own private room with two full-size beds. Bring your own personal items such as toiletries, extra blankets and pillows if you wish (bedding is provided). Bring clothing suitable for rugged outdoor use and also bring one semi formal outfit. 

Q.) Where do I go on Friday and what time to I need to get there?

A.) The Springs Camp 1950 N. M-30 Gladwin, MI 48624 Check-in begins at 3:00pm and events start at 4:00 pm. 

Q.) When will the Encounter be over?

A.) The Encounter will be over at 4 pm on Sunday.

Q.) Can I drive myself directly to the camp?

A.) Yes. Transportation to the camp is not provided. You must drive yourself.

Q.) Are meals included?

A.) There will be six meals provided during your event. This includes a meal Friday evening and lunch before you leave on Sunday. Snacks, coffee & water will also be available between meals. A coffee bar is available throughout the weekend with a large array of coffee and smoothie choices available for sale.

Q.) Who is doing the teaching?

A.) Teaching lessons are taught by Dr. Dave & Terri Sumlin. The Sumlins are co-founders of Marriage Life Ministries and authors of the Intimacy of Marriage® , Oneness of Marriage® , and Holiness of Marriage® series designed to help couples enrich their marriages through the application of biblical principles and adventure-based learning. They both have served over the last 20 years as international marriage educators, retreat leaders, pastoral counselors, and conference speakers. More information about the and their ministry can be found at https://www.marriagelifeministries.com/

Q.) How difficult are the physical challenges and what if I cant do them?

A.) Each of the 5 sessions have a corresponding physical activity to demonstrate the lesson taught. While several of the activities are physically challenging and require modest physical ability, a less strenuous but equally impactful option will available for those who cannot participate. 

Please list two emergency contacts that are available to speak with us if need be.