NET NAIROBI REGION RETREAT 2022 || SHALOM HILLS PICNIC SITE
A Look into the Annual Tradition
The NET Nairobi Region Retreat isn’t just an event—it’s a heartbeat of unity for many Christian families and communities. Every year, members of the NET (Network of Evangelical Teachers) from different parts of Nairobi gather to take a well-deserved break from their demanding schedules and reconnect with each other and with God. The 2022 retreat, held at the picturesque Shalom Hills Picnic Site, wasn’t just another calendar event. It was an opportunity to slow down, reflect, bond, and realign with spiritual goals.
From its humble beginnings, the retreat has grown into a highly anticipated event. What makes it so special? It’s not the location alone—it’s the spirit. People come as they are: tired educators, parents, students, professionals. But they leave revived, renewed, and reignited. The sense of belonging and the spiritual atmosphere at these retreats offer more than a weekend getaway—it’s a transformative experience that speaks to the soul.
Why the Shalom Hills Picnic Site Was Chosen
You may wonder, why Shalom Hills Picnic Site? The answer is simple yet profound. Located just on the outskirts of Nairobi, Shalom Hills offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, peaceful surroundings, and spiritual serenity. With rolling green hills, open skies, and whispering winds, it’s a slice of heaven on earth. More than its physical beauty, the site reflects a tranquil spirit that invites prayer, play, and reflection.
This site was carefully chosen for its accessibility and space. Families could easily travel, children had room to play, and the environment was both secure and inspiring. Whether under the shade of a tree or on a mat in the open field, every participant found a corner to call their own. In an age of screens and schedules, Shalom Hills offered something we all crave—stillness.
The Importance of Family Retreats
Reconnecting in a Distracted World
Let’s face it—we’re all a little too connected, yet often emotionally distant. Our phones buzz more than our hearts beat for real connection. Between work, school, deadlines, and endless errands, family time becomes transactional. That’s why retreats like NET Nairobi’s are not a luxury; they’re a necessity.
Family retreats pull the emergency brake on life’s speed train. They give us space to pause and ask the real questions: How are we really doing? Are we growing spiritually together? Do we still know each other beyond routine?
During the 2022 retreat, families were seen talking, laughing, praying—together. Parents had unhurried conversations with their kids. Couples sat side by side in silence, just enjoying the presence of one another without distractions. Those moments are rare in our hyperactive world, and they are gold when they happen.
Strengthening the Bonds of Unity and Love
Love isn’t just spoken; it’s shown. And nothing strengthens family unity like shared experiences. At the retreat, families engaged in various group activities—from scavenger hunts to worship sessions—that brought them closer together. Even conflicts that had brewed quietly in some homes found safe resolution through guided conversations and prayer.
The retreat also reminded everyone of a key truth: Faith is not a solo journey. The community of believers offers support, perspective, and encouragement. As families participated in Bible studies and worship sessions, they were reminded of God’s purpose for them—not just as individuals, but as units of His kingdom.
Time away from routine stressors allowed family members to see each other in a new light—beyond roles and responsibilities. A tired mother became a joyful singer. A withdrawn teenager laughed like never before. These glimpses of authentic connection built bridges that will stand the test of time.
Highlights from the 2022 Retreat
Fun-Filled Activities and Games
A retreat without fun? No way. One of the things that made the Shalom Hills Retreat unforgettable was the diversity of activities. Children enjoyed races, storytelling, talent shows, and group games. Teenagers found community in team competitions, open mic sessions, and bonfire talks. Adults had their fair share of laughter too—with tug-of-war matches, sack races, and drama skits that made even the quietest participants crack a smile.
But these games weren’t just entertainment. They were carefully designed to promote bonding, teamwork, and joy. In a world where laughter is often buried under stress, such joyful moments are medicine for the soul.
Beyond the games, there were nature walks, photography contests, and even short reflective writing sessions. Everyone, regardless of age or personality, found something that made them feel alive and involved.
Worship, Reflection, and Spiritual Nourishment
Of course, the heart of the retreat was spiritual growth. Each morning started with sunrise devotionals—quiet moments where attendees meditated, worshipped, and journaled. Worship sessions were deeply moving. Voices lifted in harmony under the open sky created a kind of heavenly atmosphere that no building could replicate.
The retreat also included sessions of corporate prayer, group reflections, and interactive sermons. Leaders used real-life stories and scripture to challenge, inspire, and encourage. There was a sense that God was tangibly present—touching hearts, restoring brokenness, and calling people to deeper faith.
Participants were given time to sit alone with their Bibles, to pray quietly, or to talk one-on-one with counselors or spiritual leaders. It wasn’t a rigid schedule—it was intentional space to grow.
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