The 2026 Annual Retreat
The Annual Retreat is where Chicago Fellowship began, and it remains the heartbeat of our community — a space for men to step away together, encounter God, and return renewed.
About the Retreat
Chicago Fellowship’s retreat began humbly in 2003, when a handful of men gathered at a lakehouse to step away from the rush of daily life and focus on what truly matters. What started as a small circle of friends has grown into a gathering of hundreds of men from across Chicagoland.
The retreat remains true to that original vision: to create space for men to connect deeply, encounter God’s Word, and be challenged to live with purpose and integrity. Each year, men from every corner of the city come together for teaching, conversations, and friendships that continue long after the day ends
What the Day Looks Like
This is a one-day gathering of men from across Chicagoland—time to hear thoughtful teaching, have real conversations, and step back long enough to consider what’s shaping your life.
- 8:00 AM — Coffee & Registration
- Two Teaching Sessions
- Small Group Conversations (come with a friend—we’ll place you together)
- Lunch & Panel Discussion
- 2:00 PM — Retreat concludes
- Optional social gathering to follow
Cost
There is no cost to attend.
This retreat is partially funded by generous donors. When you sign up, you’ll have the option to make a tax-deductible donation to help cover the cost of the day.
This Year’s Speaker
Our speaker this year is Charlie Dates, Senior Pastor of Progressive Baptist Church in Chicago and Salem Baptist Church. He is widely recognized as one of the most thoughtful and compelling voices in the church today—bringing together deep biblical teaching, cultural awareness, and a rare ability to communicate in a way that resonates across backgrounds and life stages.
“No preacher on the planet makes me understand the power of the cross, makes God’s love so tangible, helps me encounter the Holy Spirit, and inspires me to live out the teaching of Jesus like the Rev. Dr. Charlie Dates. I can’t wait to see how God moves at the Chicago Fellowship retreat this September. You better be there!”
- Steve Carter
Lead Pastor of Christ Church of Oak Brook and last year’s Chicago Fellowship retreat speaker