When I first imagined a retreat that would bring together church leaders who loved to play tabletop roleplaying games, I had no idea what it could become. Firstly, I had no idea just how many of us there are who do this ministry work of deep seriousness with a playful heart and deep joyfulness. I also had not idea just how sacred a retreat like this would become. Over the past few years, Holy Rollers has evolved into something more than just a retreat, it’s become a community of kindred spirits, a celebration of story and self, and a deeply holy space.

This fall, I’m thrilled to invite you to our next chapter: Holy Rollers: Beyond the Gates, happening October 20–23, 2025, at Camp Onomia’s Shakopee Lake Lodge. For three days and nights, we’ll gather in the beautiful heart of Minnesota’s forests to play, reflect, learn, rest, and grow.

Our theme this year draws from two powerful pieces of scripture. Revelation 21 imagines a city where “its gates will never be shut by day,” a place that welcomes “the glory and honor of the nations.” Hebrews 13 calls us “outside the gate,” to the places beyond comfort and safety, places where Jesus himself walked among the marginalized. In these images, I see a powerful call: to go beyond what’s familiar and to build communities where everyone has a place at the table.

That’s exactly what we’re about at Holy Rollers.

Yes, we’re playing D&D. Yes, we’re having an absolutely blast doing it. Yes, we’re rolling dice, fighting monsters, and uncovering secrets. But we’re also engaging in the sacred act of storytelling. As we play around the table, we bring our full selves. Our characters help us explore identity, wrestle with questions of justice, and dream of what holy kindom can look like. And the best part? We do it together.

Each day of the retreat includes several hours of gameplay led by seasoned Dungeon Masters who are not only skilled storytellers but deeply committed to creating inclusive, safe, and imaginative spaces. Whether you’re brand-new to D&D or have years of adventuring under your belt, you’ll find a table that fits your pace and your passions.

But the retreat isn’t just about the game. It’s also about the people and the journey. Through workshops and guided conversations, we’ll explore how our real-life identities (gender, race, orientation, ability, neurodiversity, and more) intersect with our faith. We’ll ask how the stories we tell at the gaming table can help us imagine a more inclusive, just, and compassionate world.

And of course, we’ll rest. Camp Onomia is the perfect setting for some needed spiritual recovery. We’ll be surrounded by towering pines, wildlife, and 100 peaceful acres on the shores of Lake Shakopee. Whether you’re curled up with a journal, out walking the trails, or laughing over coffee or a drink with new friends, you’ll find space to breathe deeply and reconnect with the holy rhythms of rest and renewal.

This retreat is open to all people, and we mean that. We affirm the sacredness of all identities and experiences. We commit to the work of anti-racism and radical inclusion. And we believe that God meets us not just in churches and sanctuaries, but around campfires, character sheets, and shared meals.

So if you’re longing for connection, craving creativity, and curious about what it means to live out your faith in playful and profound ways – come roll with us!

Let’s go beyond the gates together.

👉 Register today (space is limited): Registration Link
📅 Registration closes Sept. 15
💲 $650 Shared Room | $700 Private Room (all-inclusive)

ROLL INITIATIVE. GAIN EXPERIENCE. TAKE A LONG REST.