COME AWAY FOR REST & RENEWAL
Experience the fullness of what God has for you.

A ministry of Mobberly Baptist Church

Our Approach

Oasis In The Pines exists to strengthen Christian leaders by cultivating hope, help, and healing.

Through spiritual rest, renewal, and reflection in the context of a caring community, Oasis In The Pines provides a sacred space to strengthen Christian leaders so they can humbly and confidently live out their gospel calling and make disciples.

Hope

Help

Healing

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Romans 15:13

“For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.”
Isaiah 41:13

“Heal me, Lord, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise.”
Jeremiah 17:14


Our Team

Gregg Zackary

Gregg was raised in East Texas, married to Tina Bryce in 1985, he is a proud father of four children, father-in-law to two sons-in-love and one daughter-in love.  Called and licensed in 1980 and ordained in 1988, Gregg’s commitment for over 40 years has been to equip and empower his family and God’s people to fulfill God’s purpose for their life and ministry.

Oasis Pastor

  • In his free time, Gregg enjoys spending time with his family, traveling to the mountains, beaches, places of beauty in creation, and historic places.  He also enjoys reading, exercise, and cycling on his road and gravel bikes.

    Serving at Mobberly Baptist Church since 1995, Gregg has held several leadership roles, including Minister of Outreach and Missions, Associate Pastor of Education and Outreach, Senior Associate Pastor, and Pastor of Marriage and Family Counseling.  Currently, he serves as the Oasis Pastor for Oasis in the Pines, a newly launched ministry dedicated to strengthening Christian leaders through spiritual rest, renewal, and reflection in a caring community.  Dr. Zackary’s visionary work also led to the founding of Hope Road Counseling, serving as Executive Director from 2018-2020.

    With a ministry rooted in faith, education, and compassion, Gregg is dedicated to guiding others in their spiritual journeys, promoting holistic wellness, and fostering resilient communities. Through Oasis in the Pines, he continues to empower Christian leaders to thrive and enrich the lives of those they serve.

Analisa Hood

Born and raised in Texas, Analisa Hood has made East Texas her home for the past 17 years. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Baylor University and a Master of Religious Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. With over 32 years of experience serving as a Children’s Minister in the local church, Analisa has dedicated her life to enriching the spiritual journeys of children and families.

Oasis Minister of Care

  • Her calling to ministry began during her college years, where she developed a passion for creating experiences and environments for people—both young and old—to encounter God in profound and transformative ways. 

    Since marrying Laroy Hood in 1995, together they have raised two sons who are now married.  With the addition of two beautiful daughters-in-law they are also enjoying the added blessing of an adorable grandson. In addition to spending time with her family, she likes to read, find and explore small East Texas towns and coffee shops, and go for walks in the outdoors.

    Analisa is looking forward to her role at Oasis In The Pines, where she continues her mission of walking alongside individuals as they navigate their spiritual paths. She is committed to holding hope for those facing hurt, disappointment, or struggles, and finds joy in serving others through this ministry.

Sonya Reeder

Senior Director of Spiritual Formation,
Hope Road Counseling

Sonya has always had a heart to help people deepen their walk with God through self-knowledge and interior change.  After graduating from East Tennessee State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree, she attended Dallas Theological Seminary and earned a Master’s degree in Cross Cultural Ministries.  At DTS she met and married David Reeder, and following seminary, they moved to Colorado where Sonya completed her Master’s degree in Biblical Counseling at Colorado Christian University. Her education path prepared her to do what she most loved doing, listening to and guiding people who wished to grow relationally and spiritually.

  • Returning to Dallas, Sonya worked as a staff counselor in the Counseling Services department at DTS, also providing small group training with the Center for Christian Leadership.  In 1992 she co-founded the Center for Biblical Counseling in Dallas Texas, serving as Assistant Director for 10 years before moving with her family to East Texas where she became Director of Counseling at Heartlight Ministries.  In 2004 she established a private counseling practice in Longview, Texas gradually expanding it to include extensive work with churches and Christian universities as both consultant and mentor.  In 2015 Sonya co-authored a book about engaging in meaningful conversations, entitled Listen In (Intervarsity Press). In 2023 Sonya wrote a second book, A Journey into Spiritual Formation

     Beginning in 2018, Sonya served as Director of Counseling at Hope Road in Longview Texas, becoming its Executive Director in 2019.  She is currently the Senior Director of Spiritual Formation at Hope Road Counseling.

    Sonya is a Licensed Professional Counselor, as well as a Licensed Supervisor of LPC Associates and Interns.  She has also completed her formation as a Spiritual Director under the direction of the late Dr. Larry Crabb and hopes to continue listening to the hearts of people who want to become more Christ-like in their relationships. 

    Sonya and her husband have been married for over 3 decades.  They have 4 grown children.  They are blessed with daughters-in-law they love dearly, and they find great delight in spending time with their grandchildren. 

What To Expect

Find peace in the midst of life’s challenges.

Nestled in the heart of the Piney Woods of East Texas, Oasis In The Pines offers a transformative retreat designed for Christian leaders and their spouses. This experience provides a sanctuary to nurture your soul through an intentional program, a relaxed schedule, a welcoming atmosphere, and a supportive community.

Receive guidance for navigating ministry struggles.

Our retreat combines Christ-centered one-on-one soul conversations with a certified Spiritual Director or Licensed Professional Counselor, leadership coaching, and relational support. Together, we help you sort through the unique challenges of ministry life and rediscover your God given purpose and strength.

Deepen your relationship with Jesus.

This retreat is an opportunity for spiritual rest and renewal, blending moments of play, soul care, formational teaching, professional support, and reflection. Surrounded by the beauty and serenity of nature, you’ll find a safe and sacred space to reconnect with God.

Is Oasis In The Pines
right for you?

If you're a Christian leader dealing with stress, discouragement, conflict, fatigue, loneliness, or other challenges, we want to walk alongside you, offering encouragement and support.

Oasis In The Pines provides pastors, ministers, missionaries, and other Christian leaders a sacred space to rest, renew, recharge, and realign. We desire to help you continue fulfilling God’s call on your life from a place of health, strength, and spiritual vitality.

At Oasis In The Pines, Christian leaders experience renewal and growth through:

  • Rest and Renewal: A peaceful environment to restore your mind, body, and spirit.

  • Silence and Solitude: Sacred time to connect with God without distractions.

  • Interactive Experiences: Engaging with our lake, trails, and natural surroundings.

  • Christ-Centered Counseling: Professional guidance and spiritual direction through our partnership with Hope Road Counseling.

  • Leadership Coaching: Personalized coaching from the Oasis In The Pines Pastor and Mobberly Baptist Church staff to support your ministry journey.

  • Relational Support: Encouragement and connection with the Oasis In The Pines Team and fellow participants.

If you are seeking a place to rest, reflect, and realign, Oasis In The Pines could be the perfect retreat for you.

FAQs

  • Oasis In The Pines provides a sacred space for Christian leaders to experience spiritual rest, renewal, and reflection within a caring community. Our mission is to strengthen leaders, enabling them to humbly and confidently fulfill their gospel calling and make disciples. We partner with Hope Road Counseling and licensed professionals to offer Christ-centered counseling for individuals and couples, spiritual direction, and group discussions that promote personal and spiritual growth. Together, with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we aim to uncover the root causes of challenges and provide effective tools and practices for healing and growth.

  • Guests stay at the Main House, the heart of Oasis In The Pines. It features shared living, dining, and sitting spaces, along with two private suites. Each participant enjoys a private suite with a sleeping area, private bath, and small sitting area. Nestled on Williams Lake, the property boasts scenic views, walking and biking trails, and peaceful spots for reflection. While the lake is open to the public, the Main House offers a secure and private retreat environment.

  • Guests are responsible for arranging their own transportation. If flying, we recommend renting a vehicle to have transportation during your stay. Driving directions will be emailed prior to your arrival.

  • Most essentials are provided, including linens, toiletries, meals, and snacks. Each guest suite includes a mini fridge and coffee pot. You only need to bring comfortable clothing and any personal toiletries.

  • Yes, a life history form must be completed and submitted three weeks before your visit. This information helps us prepare for your time at Oasis In The Pines.

  • We encourage unplugging to fully embrace the retreat experience. While cell phones can be used for essential calls, we recommend minimizing phone use to focus on spiritual rest and renewal. Guests may bring laptops, though internet access is limited. Setting aside technology will help you make the most of your time with God during your stay.

  • Our goal is to minimize distractions, so we ask that you park your car upon arrival and remain onsite for the first few days. Later in the week, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the local area.

    • 8:00 a.m. Breakfast

    • 9:00 a.m. Morning session (Soul Conversations)

    • 12:00 p.m. Lunch

    • 1:00 p.m. Group discussions (Cultivating Conversations for formational growth)

    • Afternoon Time for reflection, rest, renewal, and play

    • 6:00 p.m. Family-style supper

    • Evening Community-building activities

  • Yes, we work with you to create an action and follow-up plan for the year ahead. This may include phone appointments, follow-ups with licensed counselors, and recommendations for continued growth.

  • We ask that you come with an open and honest heart, ready to receive and engage with all that Oasis In The Pines has to offer.

Explore The Land

Oasis In The Pines is nestled on 100 acres in the serene Piney Woods of East Texas. Located in Longview, TX, this historic property was cherished by the Williams family for six generations. At one time, the family operated a thriving dairy farm on a portion of the land, spanning the years before, during, and after World War II.

The property features two lakes that reflect its rich history. Williams Lake, the “big lake,” was constructed in the early 1900s, offering picturesque views and tranquil surroundings. The “little lake”, adjacent to Williams Lake, was historically used for dairy and agricultural purposes and remains a beloved fishing spot.

Today, Mobberly Baptist Church is honored to steward this land, dedicating it to God’s glory and His Kingdom’s work.

What’s next?

Take the first steps toward renewal and healing.

Step 1: Submit Your Contact Form
If you’re interested in attending Oasis In The Pines, start by filling out the contact form so we can connect with you and help you begin your journey toward rest and renewal.

Step 2: Complete the Preliminary Application
After submitting your contact information, you will receive an email with a link to complete a Preliminary Application. This helps us better understand your needs and how we can support you.

Step 3: Application Review by Our Care Team
Our Care Team will carefully review your application to determine if Oasis In The Pines is the right fit for you and how we can best assist you.

Step 4: Receive Your Next Steps
Once your application is reviewed, a staff member will contact you to guide you through the next steps and address any questions.

We Look Forward to Walking Alongside You!

Contact Us