Personal Debriefing Retreats
Personal Debriefing Retreats using our model, “Exchange at the Cross,” are run by Le Rucher certified debriefers in various locations around the world each year. This retreat is unique in that it is a combination of a group and a personal debrief. A special synergy happens when people interact with others who have gone through similar experiences in different countries.
Combining the group interactions with your personal time with a debriefer gives you the much-needed time to grow, learn and reflect individually on your personal journey as a cross-cultural worker. You are given space to reflect on your reactions to the events of your life and how you have been affected–including your triumphs, disappointments, conflicts and other changes and concerns. You will have the opportunity to bring closure (where needed) and bring pressing issues into the presence of God in a safe, peaceful environment.
At Le Rucher . . .
. . .The group will be at least 8 people, but not more than 12, and can consist of singles and couples (no children).
. . . Your sessions with a debriefer will always be on your own unless you have come with a team or as a couple.
. . . There will be plenary sessions for worship, teaching, and general feedback.
. . . Debriefing sessions are scheduled from Monday through Friday and include time for personal reflection and meditation.
. . .Debriefing and counseling are provided from a Christian, Biblically-based worldview by pastoral care workers trained in debriefing and counseling skills. Prayer ministry is normally a part of this process, with the consent of those participating.
. . . Although each bedroom is set up for 2 people, we do not put strangers who have come for a Personal Debriefing Retreat together in the same room.
. . . A stay at Le Rucher would normally be for 5 nights. It is best to plan to arrive on Sunday afternoon and to leave the following Friday afternoon. The retreat will end with a meal at noon on Friday, so if possible, please plan your flights accordingly. (We are 20 minutes from Geneva airport.) Details on local hotels are available upon request should you wish to stay in the area longer.
At Le Rucher 2026 & 2027
27 September – 2 October 2026
2 or 3 more (including a Family Debrief) are tentatively planned for 2027. Dates will be announced soon.
An Exchange at the Cross Debriefing retreat in other locations . . .
. . .Personal sessions with a debriefer on your own unless you have come with a team or as a couple.
. . .Plenary sessions for worship, teaching, and general feedback.
. . .Time for personal reflection and meditation.
. . .Debriefing and counseling provided from a Christian, Biblically-based worldview by pastoral care workers trained in debriefing and counseling skills. Prayer ministry is normally a part of this process, with the consent of those participating.
Upcoming Retreats around the world
Penang, Malaysia
14 – 19 February 2027
28 February – 5 March 2027
25 – 30 April 2027
22 – 27 August 2027
The Netherlands
in Dutch only
7 – 12 June 2026
23 – 28 August 2026
25 – 30 October 2026 (Family)
6 – 11 December 2026
Germany
in German only
5 – 10 July 2026 (Family)
14 – 20 November 2026
12 – 19 February 2027
4 – 9 July 2027 (Family)
5 – 12 November 2027
18 – 24 March 2028
9 – 14 July 2028 (Famiy)
4 – 10 November 2028
Odessa, Florida USA
16 – 21 August 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (for Le Rucher only)
What is the nearest airport?
Fly into Geneva, Switzerland. We are only 20 minutes from the airport. Paris is a very, very long way away! Switzerland is a Schengen country so if you have a visa for France or another “Schengen country” you do not need one for Switzerland. Please do NOT take the French exit from the airport. We expect everyone to “follow the crowd” and meet us on the Swiss side of the airport. For driving instructions click here.
Should I arrange to take a taxi from the airport?
Not a good idea. Last we heard, it cost 1 guest nearly 100 Euros for a taxi for the 20-minute drive to Le Rucher (crossing the border automatically raises the price). We are more than glad to pick you up. Just be sure we know when you are arriving.
What is my room like?
All rooms are double occupancy. Most have 2 single beds. Because of limited space, you will be sharing a room with someone. If you are coming with a friend you would like to room with, please make sure we know that. Each room has a sink, but the shower and toilets are down the hall.
Is it possible for me to stay extra nights at Le Rucher?
Sorry, we are unable to host you for extra nights and everyone should plan to arrive Sunday afternoon and leave Friday afternoon or evening). We realize this may not be practical for some flights so we would suggest you make arrangements to stay in a hotel near the airport. There are plenty of hotels on either the French or Swiss side of the border that will provide you with a lift to the airport (even for those very early flights). On the French side, search the internet for hotels in the vicinity of Ferney Voltaire.
I'm arriving early, how do I get to Le Rucher?
We will arrange to meet you at the airport on Sunday afternoon. If you are renting a vehicle, check out the directions to our location here.
Do you offer discount prices for missionaries?
These are the discounted prices. We endeavor to keep our prices as low as possible for everything in order to serve the mission community. We are also volunteer workers, raising our own support. The fees are only to cover the cost of running the facilities and to provide the syllabus for you. All the teaching is offered to you free of charge.
Do I need to bring towels?
No, we provide towels for you.
What about my diet preferences?
Feel free to let us know in the application your preferences. We will seek to cater to your needs. If you have a specific health issue, make sure we know what that is, as well.
Are there shops within walking distance?
That all depends on your definition of walking distance! We are on the edge of a residential district with homes on one side and farmland on the other 3 sides. The nearest shops (a few very small ones) are about half an hour walk. A large supermarket is about a 10-minute drive away (6.5 km).
Can my spouse come and be at Le Rucher while I am attending the seminar?
Probably not. We have a limited number of rooms and beds and most of our training programs are completely full. If you are willing to wait and make last-minute plans, it may become possible.
What else might I like to bring?
If you want to walk in the fields around us, you may want to bring a good pair of walking shoes.
Find us:
We are physically located in France, only 15 minutes from the Geneva, Switzerland airport:
2067 Route de Tutegny
01170 Cessy, France
Tel: +33(0)450.28.03.81
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