Application for Debriefing
A Sacred Space for Your Story
As a cross-cultural worker, you carry a unique story shaped by your ministry journey. Whether your experience has included seasons of challenge and disappointment, difficult transitions, unprocessed grief, or experiences that are difficult to share with those who have not walked a similar path, your story matters and deserves to be heard, processed, and honored in a safe, caring environment.
That is the heart of the Exchange at the Cross Debriefing Retreats. These retreats provide a restorative space to process your journey, receive care, and find renewed strength for the road ahead.
Why Apply for Debriefing?
Many missionaries find themselves carrying stories and experiences that are difficult to process alone. Debriefing creates the opportunity for healing as you examine your experiences through the lens of the cross, inviting Christ to speak into the areas of your life and ministry where you most need His presence.
If you are transitioning between fields or roles, needing to process difficult experiences or losses, preparing for furlough or retirement, or simply desiring time to reflect on what you've been through, Exchange at the Cross debriefing may provide the space and support you need.
The Exchange at the Cross™ Model
We use the Exchange at the Cross debriefing model developed by Le Rucher Ministries. This biblically-based five-day process follows the example of Jesus' encounter with the two disciples on the road to Emmaus, where He asked, "What has happened?" and gave them the gift of telling their story.
You will be given space to reflect on your reactions to the events of your life and how you have been affected, including disappointments, losses, conflicts, and changes. You will have the opportunity to seek closure where needed and bring losses and grief before God in a safe, confidential environment. Personal debriefing is provided from a Christian, biblically-based worldview by Le Rucher debriefers trained in this specific model.
Le Rucher Ministries has been serving missionaries since 1994. Over the past 30 years, they have debriefed thousands of workers and trained hundreds of facilitators worldwide in their biblical model of debriefing.
Scheduling Your Debriefing
We schedule Exchange at the Cross debriefing throughout the year based on your availability and preferences. When you apply, you'll indicate your preferred timeframe.
You'll also indicate your preference for retreat-style debriefing (with other participants), one-on-one debriefing at a retreat location, or online debriefing. Based on your preferences and the applications we receive, we'll work with you to coordinate the best option for your situation and schedule.
We strongly encourage you to apply as early as possible, even six to eight months in advance. Early applications allow us to:
Match you with the most appropriate certified debriefer for your situation
Coordinate retreat opportunities when multiple workers have similar timing preferences
Secure accommodation at our preferred retreat locations on Penang Hill
Ensure availability during your preferred seasonal timeframe
Work around your furlough dates, team transitions, or other fixed timelines
Availability is first-come, first-served, and we limit the number of debriefings offered each month to ensure quality, personalized care for each participant. All preferences and details can be indicated on the application form below.
The Setting
Most of our debriefings take place on beautiful Penang Hill, Malaysia. This peaceful hillside location provides a secluded environment surrounded by nature's beauty, away from ministry demands, creating the perfect atmosphere for reflection, rest, and meaningful encounters with God.
For those unable to travel to Penang, we also offer online debriefing via secure video conferencing, following the same five-day Exchange at the Cross model.
What Your Debriefing Includes
Five-Day In-Person Debriefing with Retreat Accommodation:
Personal one-on-one sessions with your certified Le Rucher debriefer (2-3 hours daily)
Private accommodation at the retreat location
All meals throughout your five-day stay
Debriefing materials and processing tools
Quiet space for personal reflection, rest, and prayer
Investment: $800 per person
Couples Attending Retreat Together: If both you and your spouse need debriefing, we offer individual debriefing sessions conducted simultaneously with separate debriefers. Each person processes their own journey individually while both receiving care during the same timeframe.
Investment: $1,300 per couple (includes retreat accommodation and meals for both)
Five-Day In-Person Debriefing (You Arrange Accommodation):
Personal one-on-one sessions with your certified Le Rucher debriefer (2-3 hours daily)
Debriefing materials and processing tools
Guidance on local accommodation options in Penang
Investment: $400 per person
Online Debriefing: For those unable to travel to Penang, we can offer the complete five-day Exchange at the Cross experience via secure video conferencing. Pricing and details will be shared upon application.
Investment: $200 per person
Payment & Financial Assistance
Once you complete the application form, our team will review your details and contact you within five business days with payment information and next steps. Payment can be made by credit card, PayPal, or bank transfer.
You may either pay in full or secure your spot with a $200 non-refundable deposit, with the balance due 60 days before your debriefing begins.
Financial Assistance Available
We understand that the cost of debriefing may be out of reach for some, and we don't want finances to prevent anyone from accessing this healing opportunity. While the amounts listed represent our actual costs to provide quality debriefing care, we recognize these may still be a financial stretch for many missionaries serving with limited support.
If cost is a concern, please don't let it stop you from applying. Simply indicate 'financial assistance needed' on your application and share your situation with us. We're committed to working with each applicant to explore what's possible. Scholarships are available based on genuine need.
Trusted Expertise You Can Count On
All our debriefers are trained in the Le Rucher Exchange at the Cross model, bringing professional skill combined with personal cross-cultural experience. Our team understands the unique challenges of missionary life because we've lived it ourselves.
Ready to Take This Step?
We encourage you to complete the application form today. The earlier you apply, the better we can serve you by coordinating the right debriefer, matching you with others in similar seasons for retreat opportunities, and ensuring availability during your preferred timeframe.
We will contact you within five business days of receiving your application to discuss next steps, answer any questions, and work together on scheduling your debriefing.
Your ministry matters. Your story matters. You matter. Debriefing provides space to step away from ministry, reflect, and exchange your story at the Cross.
Apply below to begin your journey toward healing and restoration.