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Broom Tree Refuge

What We Offer

Mike and Sandi Ray gained a vision for The Broom Tree Refuge in 1989. They were “in transition” and needed some perspective on their lives and ministries. It was during a stay in a cabin in Idaho that they saw the great need for such a ministry to others.

They continued in their work as missionaries with Wycliffe Bible Translators. The Lord repeatedly brought to the Ray’s minds and hearts the need for a place of retreat and refuge for people in ministry.

The need seemed especially important for those working as missionaries and in pastoral ministry. Many involved in such work experience severe stress, feel burned out, or become uncertain of their present calling. At times, they just need a time for refreshment, renewal and perspective. The Broom Tree Refuge opened in November, 2000 to provide this opportunity for rest and renewal to those who serve in the Kingdom.

3 Bedroom Cabin

We have two cabins for guests. Both are located in secluded wooded areas and are completely furnished, have central air and heat, and a wood burning stove. The cupboards and refrigerator are stocked for guests, and before you arrive, we get input regarding dietary preferences. Guests need only bring their personal belongings.

The original cabin is a modern 3-bedroom (2 with queen-size beds, 1 with 2 twin beds) and 2-bathroom building. There is a full deck in the front and rear. There is also a swing set for young children.

1 Bedroom Cabin

This cabin is a 1-bedroom (queen-size bed) and 1-bathroom building. It has a loft with two twin beds and a futon. There is a full deck on the front and a small deck on the rear. This was a project begun by a team from Riverlakes Community Church in Bakersfield, California, and finished by Mike with help from friends and family.

Our Library

We have a great library nestled in the woods. There is a broad range of books/topics—something for everyone. Many guests choose to settle down on the comfortable couch and get absorbed by their favorite books, others choose to take the books to their cabins or read by the ponds.

It is not unusual to see a doe with her young fawns, and squirrels and birds are constant companions to anyone in the cabin. On occasion you will see wild turkey foraging for food, not to mention raccoons and even an occasional armadillo, possum or fox! No hunting, although you are welcome to fish in our two ponds, which are stocked with bass, bluegill and catfish.

How is TBTR operated?

The services of the refuge are available to all Christian workers involved in Christian ministry – regardless of mission or church affiliation. Recognizing that those in ministry are often not well-supported financial, The Broom Tree Refuge has no set charges. It is operated on a donation basis according to whatever guests can afford to contribute toward the cost of their stay. No one is refused a stay based upon inability to pay. Gifts from churches, organizations and individuals toward operating expenses are gratefully received.

Who comes to TBTR?

Guests include pastors, missionaries and staff workers in churches and Christian organizations.

Each family, couple, individual, or team coming to the Refuge will be served on the basis of personal need rather than going through a set program. Staff talk with guests to determine particular needs and interests. Together they determine how to best meet those needs. The emphasis is on how to help individuals get to the place God has for them. At times, all a person or family may need or want is a time of rest. A typical length of stay at The Broom Tree Refuge might be one or two weeks, depending on the needs of guests and the time available in the cabin. Often it takes a week simply to unwind so a guest can begin to face issues they are dealing with in their life and ministry.