41 Christian Women’s Retreat Breakout Session Resources

At a women’s retreat, breakout sessions are a great way to deepen spiritual growth and build connections with others. Here are some practical ways to organize your breakout sessions for your women’s ministry:

• Choose a variety of topics that will appeal to different interests and needs. Consider including sessions on bible study, spiritual gifts, and spiritual growth.
• Invite keynote speakers or panelists to lead sessions and share their insights on specific topics.
• Plan interactive sessions that encourage participation and engagement. For example, you could organize a group discussion or a hands-on activity that ties into the session’s theme.
• Consider organizing small groups for more intimate and focused discussions. This can be a great way for participants to connect with others who share similar interests or struggles.
• Make sure to provide resources and materials for participants to take home and continue their learning and spiritual growth.

Remember, the goal of breakout sessions is to provide opportunities for women to connect with each other and deepen their relationship with God. Keep this in mind as you plan your sessions and choose topics and activities that will foster this sense of community and growth.

At a Christian women’s retreat, it’s a great idea to offer breakout sessions throughout the day or weekend.

We have had breakout sessions last both 45 minutes and one hour. The one hour time block seemed to be the best. When we tried to do a double session for longer projects, we found that the ladies weren’t as interested. They seem to like the variety of changing up each hour.

How to Schedule Breakout Sessions

• Schedule ahead sessions everyone attends together
• Allow for drop-in breakout sessions during free time (be sure to let leaders of an interactive session know how many to expect so they have enough supplies)
• Get input from attendees with pre-event surveys
• Plan and organize breakout sessions with your planning team
• Have a check-in system to ensure attendees attend their chosen sessions

Related Post: How to Schedule Breakout Sessions

Breakout Session Ideas

At a women’s retreat, breakout sessions are a great way to deepen spiritual growth and build connections with others. Here are some practical ways to organize your breakout sessions:

• Choose a variety of topics that will appeal to different interests and needs. Consider including sessions on bible study, spiritual gifts, and spiritual growth.
• Invite keynote speakers or panelists to lead sessions and share their insights on specific topics.
• Plan interactive sessions that encourage participation and engagement. For example, you could organize a group discussion or a hands-on activity that ties into the session’s theme.
• Consider organizing small groups for more intimate and focused discussions. This can be a great way for participants to connect with others who share similar interests or struggles.
• Make sure to provide resources and materials for participants to take home and continue their learning and spiritual growth.

Remember, the goal of breakout sessions is to provide opportunities for women to connect with each other and deepen their relationship with God. Keep this in mind as you plan your sessions and choose topics and activities that will foster this sense of community and growth. Bible studies and delving into God’s Word always meets the needs of women, but there are many other unique breakout session ideas you could offer, too. 

Anything that meets specific needs and can help your attendees go back to their daily life feeling refreshed in their faith will make a positive impact. A women’s conference or retreat designed to help the participants form a deeper connection to Jesus Christ is priceless. Event breakout sessions provide new ways to help this happen long term.

1. Polymer Clay Pens

Polymer clay pens are quick and simple to make and are perfect for your next retreat. Everyone will be thrilled with their useful and super cute takeaway.

2. Faithful Frames and Prayer Plaques

Transform wooden frames and plaques into inspirational chalkboards. Write prayer concerns , bible verses, or anything to encourage your throughout the day. 

Add some cute decorations and a magnet, and you can hang them on any magnetic surface to remind yourself of God’s love every day. Let your creativity come out and join us in this breakout session.

3. Horseshoe Nail Crosses

The cross. Simple in its design ~ the intersection of two straight lines or line segments. Four right angles. Found in many designs of human architecture and of nature as well. North and South, East and West. 

And most importantly for us as Christians, a symbolic reminder of the excruciating death and glorious resurrection of Jesus, on our behalf ~ the greatest gift.

4. Beautifully Broken Things – The Japanese Art of Repairing Pottery With Gold

The world breaks everyone, then some become strong at the broken places. ~Ernest Hemingway 

Kintsugi is a Japanese method of artful pottery repair using gold to fill the cracks of a broken piece. The pieces are considered more beautiful and valuable than before because of their brokenness and careful mending.

Brokenness, in one form or another, inevitably enters every life ~ broken dishes, broken bones, broken dreams, hearts, spirits. Psalm 147:3 assures us that our Father heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.

Depending on how we learn to view our brokenness and healing, we can come to see ourselves as even more beautiful and stronger than we’d have been if our brokenness and mending had never occurred. Kintsugi is a beautiful physical representation of this concept.

In this breakout session we will enact the “breaking”, “mending” and finally the ”gilded-beautification” of our own personal piece of pottery as we contemplate the ways in which brokenness has appeared in our lives and the ways in which our Father can recreate us, working all things, even broken things, for our good and His glory.

Recommended : Mended by Angie Smith

5. Crochet for Christ

If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to make a Granny square, this is the right group. 

We’ll be crocheting Granny squares to put together to make a lap blanket for a person at the nursing home. It will be a fun activity for the beginner to the experienced.

6. Photo Fun

Discover the divine through the lens of a camera in our “Photo Fun” session. No need for high-end equipment; your smartphone will do just fine. This interactive workshop will offer pointers on framing, focus, and lighting to help you capture God’s beauty like never before. So whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a beginner, join us to explore new angles of faith and creativity.

7. Making T-Shirts

Showcase your faith in a unique and artistic way through sublimation t-shirt making. This hands-on session guides you through the entire process: from design to print. You’ll leave the session with your very own custom shirt that serves as a tangible expression of your beliefs, and perhaps even a conversation starter.

8. Raising Chickens

Rising grocery prices got you down? Learn how to raise your own flock right in your backyard. In this comprehensive session, you’ll receive step-by-step guidance on constructing a chicken coop, selecting the best breed of chickens, and daily care essentials. It’s a practical way to take a small step toward sustainability while fostering a greater appreciation for God’s creatures. Use these chicken coop plans to run a session on making a coop, starting with the right chickens, and how to care for them.

9. Can You Jam with God?

Indulge in the sweetness of God’s grace by diving into the art of canning. This interactive session will walk you through making your own sugar-free strawberry jam, providing all the ingredients and equipment. The first 12 participants will receive a sample jar to take home, but everyone is welcome to watch, learn, and bask in the communal spirit.

10. Walk with God

Unplug and unwind with God’s natural wonders on a serene nature hike. This session doesn’t just offer beautiful scenery; it’s also an opportunity for spiritual reflection. We’ll offer tips on selecting the most comfortable and appropriate hiking attire to maximize your experience. Whether you’re a hiking novice or a trail veteran, this session is a cherished favorite for connecting with God and His creation.

11. Verse/Prayer Jars

Collect and cherish those powerful words that uplift your spirit. In this crafting session, you’ll decorate a glass jar in your own unique style and fill it with meaningful Bible verses or personal prayers. Your finished jar will be a beautiful keepsake that serves as a constant source of inspiration and guidance.

12. It’s About Time

Feel like you’re drowning in to-dos while missing out on life’s important moments? This session aims to tackle this common struggle head-on. You’ll learn what the Bible has to say about time management, and how to apply it to your daily life. Walk away with practical strategies for aligning your schedule with your priorities, all while staying grounded in your faith.

13. Prayer Journaling

Do your thoughts scatter during your prayer time? Would you like to build a deeper, more intentional relationship with God? If you’ve ever promised to pray for someone and later forgotten, a prayer journal can be your solution.

This session will introduce you to the transformative power of prayer journaling. We’ll discuss its benefits, walk you through some journaling techniques, and then shift into a focused time of personal writing. Notebooks will be provided, but feel free to bring your own favorite journal and pen.

14. Finding Spirituality in Clay Work

Who knew spirituality could emerge from a lump of clay? This session invites you to experience the tactile joy and meditative focus of working with clay. As your hands mold the clay, you’ll find opportunities for self-reflection and a deeper understanding of creation itself. So come explore the therapeutic and spiritual aspects of clay work, and discover how this earthy medium can be a pathway to a more peaceful and centered life.

15. Publishing

Has “write a book” been languishing on your bucket list? It’s time to act. This session will demystify the publishing process for you, outlining your seven publishing options and offering tips to fast-track your journey from idea to finished product. A helpful handout will include resources for editing, formatting, and marketing, whether you’re going traditional or self-publishing.

16. Bible Jeopardy

Flex your biblical knowledge in an energetic, team-based trivia game! Whether you’re a Bible scholar or just eager to learn, this session promises both fun and fellowship. Team up and go head-to-head against others, answering questions that range from easy to challenging. Who knows? You might walk away with some prizes, but the real reward will be the camaraderie and the deepening of your biblical understanding.

17. Living Without

Cooking around food allergies or sensitivities? In this session, you’ll gain valuable tips for preparing delicious, allergy-friendly meals. Whether it’s you, a family member, or a dinner guest with dietary restrictions, this workshop aims to make your life easier—and tastier! Not only will we share practical recipes, but you’ll also get to sample some scrumptious dishes right then and there.

18. Photo Booth

Capture the joy and fellowship of the retreat in snapshots! Our Photo Booth will offer a range of whimsical props and backdrops to make your photos pop. We’ll also have a chalkboard or whiteboard displaying the retreat name and year. Plus, we’ll introduce a unique hashtag for sharing these memories online. So strike a pose, snap away, and let the photo fun begin!

19. Make and Take Bird’s Nest Charms

These bird’s nest charms are intricately handcrafted to add a touch of natural elegance to any jewelry project. Made with high-quality materials, each charm showcases a miniaturized bird’s nest complete with tiny, faux eggs. Perfect for necklace pendants or bracelet accents, these charms are both versatile and charming. Ideal for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts alike, they make for a unique addition to your creative endeavors.

20. Virtuous Living

Explore the concept of virtue as laid out in the Bible. This session includes activities that help identify and implement virtuous qualities in daily life.

21. Gratitude Journaling

In this session, participants will explore the powerful act of acknowledging blessings through guided journaling activities aimed at fostering a mindset of gratitude.

22. Serving in Silence

Discuss the importance of serving without expecting recognition, inspired by Jesus’ humble acts of service. This session will include a small service project.

23. DIY Scripture Cards

Create your own set of scripture cards for daily inspiration. This crafting session will provide all the materials and a selection of impactful verses.

24. Proverbs 31 Woman Today

Explore how the qualities of the Proverbs 31 woman can be applied to the modern woman’s life, discussing challenges and opportunities.

25. Essential Oils in the Bible

Discover how essential oils were used during biblical times for anointing and healing, and how you can incorporate them into your own spiritual practice.

26. Art and Soul

Use art therapy techniques to connect more deeply with your spirituality. No artistic skills needed; it’s all about the process and personal expression.

27. Biblical Budgeting

Discover what the Bible says about managing finances and how to implement these principles in your day-to-day life.

28. Bible and Coffee Pairing

A lighthearted session where you’ll pair different coffees with Bible study, discussing scripture while enjoying a cozy beverage.

29. Stress-Free Holiday Planning

Get ahead of the holiday chaos with tips for stress-free holiday planning that keeps Christ at the center of your celebrations.

30. Healthy Body, Holy Temple

Discuss the importance of taking care of your body as a temple of the Holy Spirit and learn basic health tips aligned with biblical principles.

31. Stewardship & Sustainability

Learn how to be a good steward of God’s Earth by practicing sustainability at home and in your community.

32. Cultivating Spiritual Friendships

Examine the attributes of godly friendships and learn how to cultivate and maintain these relationships in your life.

33. Digital Ministry

Explore how to effectively use social media and digital platforms to spread the Gospel and build a ministry online.

34. Prayer Bead Workshop

Create your own set of prayer beads to enhance your prayer routine. This workshop includes a guide on how to use prayer beads in your spiritual practice.

35. Understanding Church History

A brief overview of key events and figures that have shaped Christianity, aimed at helping you understand your faith within a broader historical context.

36. Gospel Sing-Along

Lift your voices in this joyful session where you’ll sing along to classic and contemporary gospel songs.

37. Sabbath Rest

Discover the profound benefits of observing a day of rest, as well as practical tips for honoring the Sabbath in modern life.

38. Emotional Resilience through Faith

Explore ways to utilize your faith as a cornerstone for building emotional resilience in challenging times.

39. Finding Balance

This session aims to help you balance the demands of career, family, and spirituality, offering practical advice and a biblical perspective.

40. Understanding Revelations

Delve into the complex and often misunderstood book of Revelations, breaking down its symbolism and messages for modern Christians.

41. Christian Parenting in a Secular World

Discuss the challenges and joys of raising children with Christian values in today’s increasingly secular society.

Advice for Breakout Session Leaders

As a leader, communicate with your attendees ahead of time to set expectations. Be flexible and provide guidance as needed. Use our free letter template to help you communicate with your session leaders.

Related Post: Advice for Breakout Sessions Leaders

More Ideas for Retreat Activities:

Looking for more ideas to make your retreat unforgettable? Check out Loving Christ Ministries’ “20 Activity Ideas for Christian Women’s Retreats.” You’ll find a variety of fun and engaging activities, from outdoor collages to boutique time, that are perfect women’s retreat ideas. Don’t be afraid to mix things up and tailor the activities to your group’s preferences. Additionally, consider incorporating icebreakers and games to help your attendees feel more comfortable and connected. And don’t forget to provide refreshments and cozy touches like pillows and umbrellas to make your retreat feel like a true getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some creative ideas for breakout sessions at women’s retreats?

Breakout sessions can be a great opportunity to provide women with a variety of activities and experiences. Here are some creative ideas for breakout sessions at women’s retreats:

• Prayer sessions
• DIY craft workshops
• Cooking or baking classes
• Self-care and wellness workshops
• Creative writing or journaling sessions
• Outdoor activities like hiking or kayaking
• Art classes like painting or pottery
• Group discussions on topics like personal growth or spirituality

How can I plan a successful women’s retreat program?

Planning a successful women’s retreat program takes time and effort, but it can be a rewarding experience for everyone involved. Here are some tips to help you plan a successful women’s retreat program:

• Define your goals and objectives for the retreat
• Choose a location that is conducive to relaxation and reflection
• Develop a schedule that balances structured activities with free time
• Choose speakers and workshop leaders who are knowledgeable and engaging
• Provide opportunities for women to connect and build relationships
• Offer a variety of activities and experiences to appeal to different interests
• Pay attention to details like accommodations, meals, and transportation

What are some fun and engaging activities for women’s retreats?

Women’s retreats are a great opportunity to have fun and connect with others. Here are some fun and engaging activities for women’s retreats:

• Game nights with board games or card games
• Talent shows or karaoke nights
• Outdoor activities like scavenger hunts or nature walks
• Spa or pampering sessions
• Movie nights with popcorn and snacks
• Dance parties or Zumba classes
• Group art projects or DIY crafts
• Photo scavenger hunts or photography workshops

What are some unique workshop ideas for women’s retreats?

Workshops can be a great way to provide women with new skills and knowledge. Here are some unique workshop ideas for women’s retreats:

• Vision board workshops
• Mindfulness workshops
• Financial planning or investing workshops
• Public speaking or communication workshops
• Devotional writing workshops
• Christian blogging workshops

How can I incorporate crafting into a women’s retreat?

Crafting can be a fun and relaxing activity to incorporate into a women’s retreat. Here are some tips for incorporating crafting into a women’s retreat:

• Choose craft projects that are easy to learn and don’t require a lot of equipment
• Provide a variety of materials and supplies so women can choose their own projects
• Offer guidance and support for women who need help with their projects
• Create a dedicated space for crafting with plenty of light and workspace
• Encourage women to share their projects and ideas with each other
• Consider hosting a craft fair or market to showcase the women’s creations

What are some meaningful devotional activities for women’s retreats?

Devotional activities can provide women with a sense of spiritual connection and community. Here are some meaningful devotional activities for women’s retreats:

• Group prayer or meditation sessions
• Bible study or scripture reading groups
• Worship or singing sessions
• Testimony or sharing circles
• Service projects or volunteer opportunities
• Gratitude or affirmation exercises
• Prayer walks

More ideas for retreat actitivies:

In addition to the sessions on this page, you can find more activities for your retreat at 20 Activity Ideas for Christian Women’s Retreats.

These are just some of the retreat breakout session ideas we’ve used at our retreats. Feel free to change things up to make them fit for you.

These hobbies for women in their 20s would also work well for retreat breakout sessions.

If you have other ideas, I’d love to hear about them in the comments below.

Want to remember this? Post Breakout Session Resources to your favorite Pinterest board!