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Catalyst - “Traction”

Updated: Sep 27

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Catalyst International - Men’s Conference, “Traction” 2025


Once again, Credo Schloss Unspunnen became a place of rest and renewal for men who came from all around the world. Global Workers arrived carrying stories — of faith and fruit, but also of fatigue, loss, and the unique pressures of ministering cross culturally.


Each day personal devotionals took place against the backdrop of spectacular Swiss mountains and valleys. Then each morning began unhurriedly, as men gathered around the breakfast tables. Conversations turned strangers into friends and strengthened existing relationships.  From there we moved into worship — over 100 men’s voices singing together, grounding us in God’s presence before being led into challenging and ultimately refreshing and encouraging teaching.


Then came small groups. Meeting with the same circle of men each day, offered a safe place to be authentic and vulnerable.  Stories were shared from the heart — of challenges on the field, personal struggles, family concerns, loss and also the joy of seeing God at work in hard places. The teaching was revisited, prayers were lifted, Gods presence and promises were affirmed, and the bonds of trust and friendship grew deeper each day.


In addition to the group times, some found continued renewal in one-on-one counseling.  Traction staff set aside afternoon times to meet with men who desired additional space for going deeper and further processing.  For most, talking about their struggles aloud was an act of faith in itself.  The goal was that In those sacred conversations, God would meet  His servants with clarity, peace, and healing.


One of the unique aspects of Traction is the gift of space. Instead of filling the calendar with endless activity, empty margins were left on purpose. Some men took long walks, even longer hikes, some journaled, others shared spontaneous conversations between meals.


Saturday brought the annual “hike“ which began with a train ride from Wilderswil to Lauterbrunnen then a gondola ride up to Grütschalp and finally the one hour hike to Murren for spectacular views of three famous Swiss Alps. This provided a simple but powerful chance to get outdoors together, breathe deeply, and reflect on what God was doing.


Evenings were left open, for prayer, laughter, and further strengthening the bonds of relationship and trust. Those unscheduled hours became important life-giving moments during the week.


This has been a time where God restored weary men and they are going back to continue to serve, renewed with fresh courage.  Men arrive carrying weight. They leave carrying hope.


As this year’s Catalyst Traction Men’s Conference came to a close, men shared a final time of worship through scripture, song, and heartfelt farewells.  Strength was  renewed, friendships formed, and a renewed encouragement to continue to serve. And I considered it a high privilege to have been a part of the staff for this years conference and deeply grateful to have witnessed what God was/is doing in the lives of these men.


2 Corinthians 12:9 / Isaiah 40:31

 
 
 

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