Planning a stay at The Shepherd’s Tavern? Here are answers to some of the questions we hear most often. If you don’t find what you need, please contact us—we’re glad to help.

The Shepherd’s Tavern exists to provide a place of rest and renewal for pastors, missionaries, ministry leaders, and their families. Our desire is to care for those who spend so much of their lives caring for and serving others.

We do not offer scheduled retreat programs, and there is nothing you are required to attend or accomplish during your stay.

Your time here is your own. You may sleep, read, pray, walk the trails, sit quietly, enjoy the property, spend time with your spouse or family, or simply do nothing for a while. There is no schedule to keep. The Shepherd’s Tavern is a place where you have permission simply to come and rest.

Yes, if you would find it helpful. Debbie is an accredited spiritual director and is available to meet with guests who specifically request spiritual direction.

Spiritual direction is completely optional and is never assumed to be part of your retreat.

There is no charge to stay at The Shepherd’s Tavern.

For guests who are able and would like to help support the ministry, we suggest a donation of $60 per night. These gifts help with utilities, cleaning, hospitality, property care, and the everyday expenses involved in welcoming our guests.

A donation is never required for your stay.

The Shepherd’s Tavern currently offers four private lodging units.

Selah is a stand-alone cottage. Jordan, Capernaum, and Upper Room are located together in our Trinity building. Jordan and Capernaum are located on the first level with Upper Room on the second level.

Each unit is designed primarily for one or two guests and provides a quiet, private place to rest. Trinity also allows us to accommodate families by using adjoining rooms together.

All units have queen-sized beds except Upper Room, which has two twin beds that can be combined to make a King-sized bed.

Kitchenettes include a small- to medium-size refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, tea and some coffee pods, an air fryer or hot plate, and basic cups, dishes, and utensils.

Guests are welcome to bring groceries and prepare uncomplicated meals during their stay.

Yes. Families can be accommodated in our Trinity building, where Jordan, Capernaum, and Upper Room can provide up to three adjoining lodging areas.

When requesting your retreat, let us know who will be coming with you so we can determine the best arrangement for your family.

Yes. Capernaum is our ADA-compliant unit and is wheelchair accessible.

If you or someone traveling with you has accessibility needs, please mention that when requesting your stay so we can reserve the most appropriate accommodations.

No. Pets are not permitted at The Shepherd’s Tavern, with no exceptions. We ask guests to make other arrangements for their pets before coming for their retreat. We appreciate your understanding.

As much—or as little—as you would like.

Guests may walk the trails, sit on the porch overlooking the meadow, read, pray, journal, enjoy the outdoors, spend quiet time together, or simply rest.

There is no expectation that you fill your days with activities. In fact, one of the gifts of a retreat at The Shepherd’s Tavern is having the freedom not to have a schedule.

Yes. If you decide to venture out, there are several interesting places in the surrounding area.

High Bridge Trail State Park offers walking and bicycling along the historic rail trail, including the impressive High Bridge over the Appomattox River.

Appomattox Court House National Historical Park is also nearby and offers historic buildings, exhibits, walking areas, and the opportunity to explore one of the most significant sites in American history.

Local Amish farms and produce stands as well as cheese factories

Of course, you are equally welcome to go nowhere at all. For many of our guests, staying on the property and enjoying the quiet is exactly what they need.

Simply contact us and tell us a little about yourself, the ministry you are involved in, who will be coming with you, the dates you are considering, and any special accommodation or accessibility needs.

Email us at: MyRetreat@shepherdstavern.org 

All retreat stays are approved before being placed on our calendar. We will contact you personally to confirm availability and help make sure the accommodations are right for your stay.