Branch Church Men’s Retreat
April 10-11, 2026
Join us for a weekend to recharge at Mount Carmel Ministries in Alexandria, MN. Together we'll explore what it means to walk the Well-Worn Path in the way of Jesus. This is a great time to connect with other men, go deep in God's word, and get away for some fun and fresh perspective.
Mount Carmel is approximately 2 1/2 hr drive north west of the Twin Cities.
The cost is $165 per person (partial scholarships are available) and includes meals, lodging and activities.
The retreat is designed for all ages 18+.
Register now, or check out more details below!
Housing
We are excited to offer hotel-like accommodations - not your typical summer camp. Each guy will have his own bed, and semi-private bathroom. Towels and linens are provided.
Lodge Rooms
Rooms are set-up like a hotel with queen or full beds, some with bunk beds. Lodge rooms are connected to the dining hall. Rooms include clean, private bathrooms and sleeping for 2-5. Towels and bedding are provided.
Cabins
Cabins are freshly remodeled, with a full private bathroom and 1-2 bedrooms. They can sleep up to 7. Each unit comes with a small fridge, microwave, coffee pot and air conditioning. Towels and bedding are provided.
Arrival & Check-In
Retreat starts on Friday, April 10. We will meet at Branch Church between 3:30 and 4pm to carpool up to camp. We will be ready for you to check-in between 5:30 and 7:00PM. Please eat dinner before you arrive. If you know you need to arrive late, please let us know so we can make sure that someone is there to greet you and show you to your cabin. Check out will begin at 4:30pm on Saturday.
Mount Carmel Ministries: 800 Mount Carmel Dr NE. Alexandria, MN. Camp is approximately 2 1/2 hours northwest from the Twin Cities up I-94, and just a few miles from downtown Alexandria, MN.
Programs
This year’s retreat is focused on Spiritual Disciplines. We’ll have awesome musical worship by our talented team, and solid biblical teaching by Branch Church leaders. You’ll get to dive deeper in small groups, and what retreat would be complete without some friendly competition?! We hope you’ll leave refreshed and recharged, ready to complete the mission God has purposed you for.
Food
We know men love to eat. Food is a big part of camp and we promise you won’t go hungry! Breakfast and lunch is included on Saturday. Friday night will include a snack fest - bring your favorite treat / late night snack to share. The good news is no one has to cook or clean up! We will also happily try to accommodate any dietary needs or restrictions.
Free Time
An important part of any retreat is getting space to be with Jesus, and have some fun. Free time activities include hiking, frisbee golf, sand volleyball, corn-hole, soccer field, tennis and pickleball, basketball, foosball, shuffle board, ping-pong, board games, lake-side sauna, take a nap, scenic overlooks, relax on adirondack chairs, and more!
Volunteers
You can help make the Men’s Retreat even better by volunteering to assist us this weekend. Many hands make for a lighter load and will give you the chance to get to know everyone better. We’ll send volunteer sign-up opportunities over email as the date gets closer.
Waterfront
The beach and waterfront area at Mount Carmel will likely be closed during this time of year. (Although we know a little ice never stopped a cold-plunger!)
Allergies and Special Diets
If you have a severe allergy or any special dietary needs, we will do our best to provide options that work for you. Please make sure to fill out the special accommodations request when you register.
Policies and Guidelines
To best serve and protect our church community we ask that you refrain from bringing or consuming alcohol at the Men’s Retreat. Mount Carmel is a smoke free facility. We prohibit the use of fireworks or any illegal substances.
Payment
You are welcome to pay in full upon registration. An initial deposit of at least $55 is due to secure your registration. Final payment will be due the week of the retreat. If cost is an issue, please reach out to JD Grainger [jd.grainger@branchchurchmn.org] There is also a scholarship form available upon registration.
Please Pray
As you prepare for a great weekend, please pray for our leadership and volunteers from Branch Church, the staff at Mount Carmel, and the people coming to the retreat that we will all grow in our faith and knowledge of Jesus while also become more connected to each other!
Questions? Please contact:
JD Grainger, Worship Pastor – Branch Church, jd.grainger@branchchurchmn.org
Location:
800 Mt Carmel Dr NE. Alexandria, MN
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