1. Is John Eldredge or any of the Ransomed Heart team going to be there?
No, but the message and the flavor of the weekend are directly patterned after John's Colorado-based Wild at Heart boot camps (with his permission - they just ask us not to use the name). Still, this is a unique event based on what God is doing in our hearts.

2. Is "Hearts Alive & Free" the same as the "Wild at Heart Band of Brothers" video series?
No. Although there are some similarities in the material presented, this experience is very different. Even if you've been through the video series, this weekend will have something fresh for you.

3. What if I haven't read "Wild at Heart"?
Although not absolutely necessary, we strongly recommend you read (or re-read) the book during the 3 weeks prior to "Hearts Alive & Free" to get the most out of the weekend.

4. What if I can't make the whole four days?
Since each part builds on the last, it just doesn't work well if you can't be there from the start on Thursday night. Also, if you come late, it's not fair to those who have been there the whole time and are working on the process of getting "unplugged". On the other end, if you choose to leave early, this isn't "jail", but you'll lose some of the impact of the weekend.

5. So, what is the latest I can come?
The latest you can come is Thursday evening.

6. Is this going to be a weekend of lectures?
No. There are teaching sessions followed be times of personal reflection. Also, there will be free time to use as you wish - take a nap, journal, hike, relax, or participate in the optional adventure activities.

7. What are some of the optional adventure activities?
A 1000' zip line into Timber Wolf Lake, high ropes course, clay pigeon shooting, mountain bikes, and indoor climbing wall, to name a few. There's also basketball, frisbee golf, and a game room (foosball, ping pong, etc.) For some, just being away from the cell phone, Blackberry, laptop, TV, newspaper, kids, wife, and work will be quite an adventure in itself.

8. What's going to happen while I'm there?
We believe that you're going to have one of the most revolutionary experiences of your life. It won't be like any other "men's retreat" you've ever attended. We promise - no fireside guitar, hand-holding, "kum-ba-ya" stuff.

9. What if I'm not a really religious guy?
PERFECT! This isn't about being more religious. "Religion" is about trying to "get it right" and doing more stuff to please God. This weekend is not about that.

10. Well then, what if I am religious?
PERFECT AGAIN! We're not here to knock anyone. So come and see if the religion in your life is really providing what you need for your heart to be alive and free.

11. Should I bring a friend or should I come alone?
Either is okay. Some may want to come as a group. Others have had a great experience coming alone, finding new and lasting friendships along the way. God knows what you need much more than we do, so let Him lead. Again, it'll be good either way.

12. Is this a good father-son event?
Not really. Although fathers and adult sons occasionally come together, there should be a very clear understanding that this is not intended to be a father-son bonding experience. It would be wise if you asked to be housed separately and try, as practical, to limit your interaction with each other. Again, we won't put a restriction on what God would do, but be forewarned that it typically doesn't work out very well.

13. What should I bring?
Absolutely no ties allowed, so just bring comfortable clothing, a swim suit, personal hygiene items, and a few bucks for the camp store, if you like. All meals, bedding, and a bath towel are provided. Some will want their journal or a Bible, but that's a personal preference.

14. Do you offer a similar weekend for women?
Not yet, but we highly encourage women to check out the "Captivating" retreat offered by Ransomed Heart. Ladies, we can tell you that many women will testify to the positive impact of having had a man in their lives attend one of these events, so encourage your man to go. You won't regret it, and neither will he.