
A soul care retreat for couples
We invite you and your spouse to join us on a two-night guided soul care retreat at Saint Francis Springs Prayer Center.
Jesus asked a powerful question in Mark 8:36: “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?” It is an unavoidable reality that Jesus spoke directly to in John 16:33: “In this life, you will have trouble.” Being married is a unique and often challenging calling. In the busy and complex process of fulfilling that calling, it is common to neglect your soul and the soul of your marriage. As this happens your marriage and life may become uninspired and stagnant. Your marriage and family life may also become dry, conflicted, and unfulfilling.
We need time and space to get away, to be cared for, to rest, to reflect, to listen, and to receive the invitation from Jesus:
“Here’s what I want you to do: Find a quiet, secluded place so you won’t be tempted to role-play before God. Just be there as simply and honestly as you can manage. The focus will shift from you to God, and you will begin to sense his grace. Matthew 6:6, MSG
2 nights
20 couples
Lodging + Meals
Rest and Retreat
St. Francis Springs Retreat Center
- March 6-8, 2026
- $600 a couple (Previously $800, but we received a donation to offer this retreat at a lower rate.)
- $400 for lodging and food
- $200 for program materials and teaching
- A retreat to rest and reset

Who this retreat is for:
Married couples who…
- love each other and love Jesus
- want time and space to simply be with God and each other
- are trying to figure out the best way to deal with the challenges of life together
Who this retreat is not for:
Married couples who…
- would describe their relationship as being “in critical condition”
- are looking for a way to save their marriage
- are just looking for a fun few days away together

A Little Bit About Jason and Mary
Mary and Jason are enjoying their empty nest and a bit more time sharing early morning quiet and coffee time together. They are making frequent trips to Boone, NC and Dallas, TX to visit their sons, taking long walks, and traveling when time allows. They just welcomed a new puppy, Boots, to the family as well!
Jason Young PsyD. Clinical Psychology, Fuller Theological Seminary, MA, Theology, Fuller Theological Seminary, MA, Marriage and Family Therapy, Reformed Theological Seminary
Jason has worked as a psychotherapist since 1997, and has been in private practice as a Licensed Psychologist in Raleigh, NC since 2005. His therapeutic approach is rooted in a relational understanding of psychodynamic theory. Jason has extensive experience, academically and clinically, in the integration of Psychology and Theology. His areas of therapeutic expertise are sexual trauma, depression, anxiety, men’s issues, pastoral identity, couples therapy, and crises of faith.
Mary Vandel Young, M.Div, Fuller Theological Seminary
Mary has been a participant, student, teacher, and leader in the area of Christian spiritual formation and soul care for more than 25 years. Mary has served in JourneyMates™ since 2005 and now ministers as executive director. In addition to her work with JourneyMates, Mary provides soul care and Christian spiritual direction to individuals, serves as faculty for the Raleigh Fellows, and facilitates soul care retreats for groups. Prior to her role in JourneyMates, Mary taught in international schools and served on Young Life staff in Kuala Lumpur, Lima, Peru, Colorado Springs, and Raleigh.