|
What is Anchor Home Ministries?Anchor Home Ministries is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit religious charitable organization in the state of California offering Christian/Biblical Counseling & Coaching, Premarital Counseling, Pastoral Services (Officiating Weddings and Memorials), Seminars & Classes, Retreats/Camps, "Adventures In Marriage" (AIM), Intensive Marriage Retreats, Guest Speaking, and providing Resources. We also enjoy a partnership with Standing Stone Ministry that specifically cares for ministry staff & spouses.
|
Joy & Darren Mettler
Our passion is to come alongside people wherever they are at in life's journey.
We know this life is full of highs and lows, twists and turns, joys and pains, hopes and expectations.
We strive to meet and engage with people with a welcoming, comfortable, grace-filled, empathetic, caring presence, and a biblical, gospel-centered approach. It is our aim and desire to help people
anchor their lives on the truth and love of Jesus.
We know this life is full of highs and lows, twists and turns, joys and pains, hopes and expectations.
We strive to meet and engage with people with a welcoming, comfortable, grace-filled, empathetic, caring presence, and a biblical, gospel-centered approach. It is our aim and desire to help people
anchor their lives on the truth and love of Jesus.
We Offer
Anchor Home's founding vision is that anybody and everybody who would like help and counsel would be able to receive that help, without concern of financial barriers. We know counseling can be prohibitively expensive or overly complicated (i.e., insurance referrals/approvals/restrictions). So, we intentionally do not have a set fee structure. Anchor Home operates on a donation-based model. We are not "free" counseling/coaching. Whether we are providing counseling, resources, guest speaking, or pastoral services, we simply ask people to prayerfully consider what they can afford (as able) to give as a thoughtful donation, a "pass-it-on blessing," or an ongoing investment towards the work of the ministry.
To check availability or to schedule a session visit the CONTACT tab (calendar/scheduler link).
To check availability or to schedule a session visit the CONTACT tab (calendar/scheduler link).
Premarital Counseling
One of our specialties and favorites! In such an exciting season of life it is so beneficial and wise to invest in the future of your marriage and relationship (and statistics prove this)! Working together through the many foundational topics of life and marriage (i.e., communication, conflict, family, finances, faith, intimacy, etc.), we use God's word and multiple resources, written by leading marriage experts, to better equip you and give you practical skills to be successful in this sacred covenant. We count it a privilege to be invited into your premarital journey, and we will transparently share the strengths and challenges over our 24+ years of marriage. Darren is also a licensed wedding Officiant/Pastor.
|
Relationship Counseling
Relationships and marriage can be difficult. Family and parenting can be difficult. Let's just all agree life can be messy and complicated, right? Brokenness, trauma, abuse, betrayal, dysfunction, disappointments, missed expectations, etc. are all very real in this life (and God wouldn't have us pretend it's not). We recognize it can be very easy to fall into unfruitful, unhealthy, or stagnant patterns and habits. Maybe you're in need of a relationship "tune-up," a complete "overhaul," or anything in between? We would be happy to join you, right where you're at, and help you to find true hope, healing, direction, and connection with each other and the God who loves you.
|
Individual Counseling
Life has a lot of dynamics, to say the least! Many of those things were not asked for, or they have come from the actions of others in our lives (past to present), and/or they have been created by our own beliefs and circumstances, decisions and actions. Our day-to-day living is led and affected by our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Anxiety, worry, fear, depression, anger, and doubt, to name a few, can be seriously paralyzing or crippling to our lives. We believe God wants you to know, think, feel, and be able to act in a way that is founded on faith in Him and according to His Word. We aim to join and help you, by God's grace, to discover greater depths of relationship with Him.
|
"Adventures In Marriage" (AIM)
At Anchor Home Ministries, our mission is helping people anchor their lives on the truth and love of Jesus. We believe one of the most beautiful places that anchoring happens is within the context of marriage. We’re excited to launch a new expression of this mission and passion that directly aims to accomplish this goal: “Adventures In Marriage” (AIM).
AHM's “Adventures In Marriage” (AIM) offers intimate, multi-day “inn-to-inn” trekking experiences designed for couples who want to strengthen, refresh, and deepen their marriage through shared adventure. Darren and Joy will lead a small group of up to three other couples, journeying together through breathtaking outdoor landscapes, walking scenic trails, staying in welcoming inns, and experiencing the beauty of local culture and cuisine along the way. AHM will take care of all the details so that you’ll best be able to gear up for, and relax into, your shared adventure!
There’s something uniquely powerful about stepping away distraction-free (or at least less ;-) from everyday routines and into creation together. The rhythm of walking side by side creates space for meaningful conversation. Shared meals foster laughter and genuine fellowship. Stunning scenery invites wonder, reflection, and gratitude. And the encouragement of other like-minded couples provides connection and support that can be both refreshing and deeply encouraging.
AIM is more than just a getaway. It’s an intentional opportunity to journey and reconnect with one another and with the Lord! Through nature, conversation, community, and the gift of shared experiences, couples are invited to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover the joy of walking together while aiming to be anchored in Christ and strengthened for the adventure ahead!
See below for details on the next AIM trek...
AHM's “Adventures In Marriage” (AIM) offers intimate, multi-day “inn-to-inn” trekking experiences designed for couples who want to strengthen, refresh, and deepen their marriage through shared adventure. Darren and Joy will lead a small group of up to three other couples, journeying together through breathtaking outdoor landscapes, walking scenic trails, staying in welcoming inns, and experiencing the beauty of local culture and cuisine along the way. AHM will take care of all the details so that you’ll best be able to gear up for, and relax into, your shared adventure!
There’s something uniquely powerful about stepping away distraction-free (or at least less ;-) from everyday routines and into creation together. The rhythm of walking side by side creates space for meaningful conversation. Shared meals foster laughter and genuine fellowship. Stunning scenery invites wonder, reflection, and gratitude. And the encouragement of other like-minded couples provides connection and support that can be both refreshing and deeply encouraging.
AIM is more than just a getaway. It’s an intentional opportunity to journey and reconnect with one another and with the Lord! Through nature, conversation, community, and the gift of shared experiences, couples are invited to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover the joy of walking together while aiming to be anchored in Christ and strengthened for the adventure ahead!
See below for details on the next AIM trek...
Peneda-Geres National Park - Northern Portugal
Northern Portugal - May 20-27, 2027
Step into one of Europe’s most beautiful (and least discovered) landscapes on Anchor Home Ministries’ “Adventures In Marriage” (AIM) Northern Portugal trek through the breathtaking Peneda-Gerês National Park. Tucked among golden hills, deep green valleys, and rugged granite ridgelines, this inn-to-inn journey invites couples into adventure, connection, and quiet wonder. Along the way, you will be provided with focused, intentional marriage-enhancement content, uninterrupted time for meaningful talk, and space for prayer and contemplation with the Lord... paired all throughout the journey with opportunities for engaging conversations with your fellow “trek-mates.”
Trip cost is $5979 PER COUPLE and includes 7 nights lodging (including luggage transfers), 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners, trek/route materials, some necessary local transport, and intentional marriage content/materials. Beverages/desserts/snacks are NOT included. Transportation to the trek beginning, and from the trek end is NOT included.
Each day we’ll walk scenic linear trails (typically 6 to 14 miles) along a fascinating mix of ancient Roman roads, granite-paved village tracks, grassy footpaths, and mountain trails. This route is rated “Easy-Medium” to “Medium-Hard” (Note: there are some shortening/easing options via taxi if desired.) Carrying nothing but a daypack (as all luggage transfers from inn-to-inn will be handled) you’ll experience the satisfaction of traveling step by step through this extraordinary region, arriving each evening with a true sense of accomplishment... and a well-earned appetite!
Along the route, you’ll pass through timeless rural villages where life still moves at an unhurried pace. Stone homes, community granaries, terraced hillsides, and rolling pastures tell the story of a place where traditions endure. You may share the trail with horned cattle or catch sight of the iconic Garrano ponies grazing on the hillsides, not to mention the sights and sounds of vibrant bird varieties.
Upon arriving into our towns/villages, we will stay in varied and lovely accommodations (3-5 star or “best in town”; all included in trip price). From friendly pensions to traditional Portuguese houses (like staying in a museum), through to the amazing pousada (a converted monastery with a grass roof) at the end of the route in Santa Maria do Bouro, you’ll be immersed into local welcome, culture, and comfort. Portugal’s warm hospitality is beautifully woven into every day’s experience. Enjoy local Vinho Verde, fresh and bright with a hint of sparkle. Savor traditional bacalhau (Portugal’s beloved salted cod), Barrosa beef, and of course, the famous pastel de nata among other local treats. (Meals provided in trip cost includes all breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. Drinks/desserts not provided.)
Sounds amazing, doesn’t it? Please join us on one of AHM’s “Adventures In Marriage” treks for couples who long for beauty, meaningful conversation, shared challenge, and unforgettable moments together. A meaningful journey and a deeper connection and adventure for your marriage! Join us in May 2027! If interested... please fill out the interest/survey form.
Trip cost is $5979 PER COUPLE and includes 7 nights lodging (including luggage transfers), 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners, trek/route materials, some necessary local transport, and intentional marriage content/materials. Beverages/desserts/snacks are NOT included. Transportation to the trek beginning, and from the trek end is NOT included.
Each day we’ll walk scenic linear trails (typically 6 to 14 miles) along a fascinating mix of ancient Roman roads, granite-paved village tracks, grassy footpaths, and mountain trails. This route is rated “Easy-Medium” to “Medium-Hard” (Note: there are some shortening/easing options via taxi if desired.) Carrying nothing but a daypack (as all luggage transfers from inn-to-inn will be handled) you’ll experience the satisfaction of traveling step by step through this extraordinary region, arriving each evening with a true sense of accomplishment... and a well-earned appetite!
Along the route, you’ll pass through timeless rural villages where life still moves at an unhurried pace. Stone homes, community granaries, terraced hillsides, and rolling pastures tell the story of a place where traditions endure. You may share the trail with horned cattle or catch sight of the iconic Garrano ponies grazing on the hillsides, not to mention the sights and sounds of vibrant bird varieties.
Upon arriving into our towns/villages, we will stay in varied and lovely accommodations (3-5 star or “best in town”; all included in trip price). From friendly pensions to traditional Portuguese houses (like staying in a museum), through to the amazing pousada (a converted monastery with a grass roof) at the end of the route in Santa Maria do Bouro, you’ll be immersed into local welcome, culture, and comfort. Portugal’s warm hospitality is beautifully woven into every day’s experience. Enjoy local Vinho Verde, fresh and bright with a hint of sparkle. Savor traditional bacalhau (Portugal’s beloved salted cod), Barrosa beef, and of course, the famous pastel de nata among other local treats. (Meals provided in trip cost includes all breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. Drinks/desserts not provided.)
Sounds amazing, doesn’t it? Please join us on one of AHM’s “Adventures In Marriage” treks for couples who long for beauty, meaningful conversation, shared challenge, and unforgettable moments together. A meaningful journey and a deeper connection and adventure for your marriage! Join us in May 2027! If interested... please fill out the interest/survey form.
Anchor Home Ministries Inc. is a registered Section 501(c)(3) non-profit public charitable organization in the state of California.
All donations are tax-deductible. EIN# 85-2509035
All donations are tax-deductible. EIN# 85-2509035