CU Fire Retreat · April 24–26, 2026 · Poughkeepsie, NY
The life of God
in the soul of man
A rare, in-person gathering for those who want more than surface-level Christianity — and are ready to press in with sincerity, intensity, and expectation.
What this is
Not a conference.
An encounter.
This weekend is built around one aim: to cultivate the real, experiential life of God in the soul. The design is intentionally unhurried — no packed schedule, no performative worship. Just Scripture, prayer, rich teaching, and the kind of fellowship that changes people forever.
"Expect not just teaching, but encounter. Not just information, but transformation."
— Christian Union AmericaSet in the peaceful seclusion of Mirror Lake Retreat Center, the environment itself is part of the design — away from noise, consecrated entirely for seeking God together as a community of serious believers.
Why this matters now
The same truth that ignited a movement — for our generation
This retreat draws its inspiration from Henry Scougal's 1673 masterwork. A single letter that helped awaken some of history's most consequential ministries — and shaped the spiritual foundations of a nation. We gather not merely to study history, but to contend for that same fresh work of God in our time, and for the spiritual renewal of our nation.
The Life of God in the Soul of Man — Henry Scougal, 1673
What to expect
A full weekend, fully consecrated
The structure is simple but powerful. Every element of the weekend is designed to remove distraction and create an environment where genuine encounter with God becomes possible.
Deep Scripture immersion
Extended, unhurried time in the Word — not a quick devotional, but sustained encounter.
Rich theological teaching
In-person sessions delivered with depth and pastoral care — far beyond the surface.
Authentic fellowship
Real relationships with others who are pursuing the same depth and hunger for God.
Focused prayer & intercession
Extended times of prayer contending together for personal and national revival.
Personal reflection & repentance
Unstructured space to be still, honest, and renewed before God.
Brotherhood & sisterhood
A shared burden for revival that forges lasting bonds across the body of Christ.
Who this is for
Those who are ready to press in
This retreat is for anyone 22 to 102 who desires more than the ordinary. If any of these describe you, this weekend was designed with you in mind.
You want more than a weekend of information — you want transformation
You hunger for deeper communion with Christ and renewed holiness
You feel a burden for revival in your generation and your nation
You are tired of surface-level Christianity and ready to press in with sincerity and expectation
You want to build meaningful spiritual friendships with others who share that same hunger
The venue
Mirror Lake Retreat Center
A peaceful, secluded setting in Poughkeepsie, NY — designed for undistracted encounter with God. The location is not incidental. Removing yourself from ordinary life is part of the experience.
Mirror Lake
Retreat Center
Poughkeepsie, New York
Getting here
How to reach us
64 White Drive, Milan, NY 12571
Set in the quiet countryside of Dutchess County, about two hours north of New York City.
By car
Driving from NYC
Roughly 2 hours from Manhattan. Take the Taconic State Parkway north or I-87 (NY Thruway) to the Rhinebeck / Red Hook area, then follow local roads to 64 White Drive, Milan.
Free on-site parking is available at the retreat center.
By train
Train from NYC
Metro-North Hudson Line from Grand Central Terminal to Poughkeepsie (~1h 50m), or Amtrak Empire Service from Penn Station to Rhinecliff–Kingston (~1h 40m).
From either station, the retreat center is about a 20–25 minute taxi or rideshare ride. Pickup from the train station can be arranged in advance — coordinate with Sonya.polino@christianunion.org prior to the retreat.
By train
Train from DC
Amtrak Acela or Northeast Regional from Washington Union Station to New York Penn Station (~3–3.5 hours).
Transfer to Amtrak Empire Service at Penn Station and continue to Rhinecliff–Kingston (~1h 40m), then 20–25 minutes by taxi or rideshare to the retreat center. Pickup from the station can be arranged in advance — coordinate with Sonya.polino@christianunion.org prior to the retreat.
Need help coordinating travel or a ride from the train station? Reach out to Sonya.polino@christianunion.org prior to the retreat to arrange pickup.
Join us April 24–26
in Poughkeepsie, NY
Space is intentionally kept small — 20 to 30 participants — so that every person experiences the full depth and intimacy of the weekend. Don't wait to secure your place.
Register now Questions? Contact Christian Union America for more information.