Our Story
Our Story of Renewal
Hilltop Renewal Center was born out of a vision given to Dr. Judy TenElshof, who cared for the hearts of Christian pastors and leaders through counseling and a long tenured teaching career at Talbot Seminary. Her husband Gene, after years in the corporate world and ministry, discovered how easily identity can be wrapped up in work, success, and security and joined Judy and the Lord’s leading in seeing this vision through to fulfillment, both being convicted that life is found in Christ alone.
God gave them Hilltop— a place where people could step away from noise and hurry, a sanctuary of silence, solitude, and prayer. Through miracles, setbacks, even the loss of the first retreat property to wildfire, God continued to lead them. What began with ashes was rebuilt with faith, and today Hilltop stands in the San Jacinto Mountains as a haven of peace.
Rediscover Joy in
the intimacy of God. (Video)
Here, guests find space to slow down, listen for God’s voice, and be renewed in His presence. From quiet bedrooms that open into the forest, to the small chapel and Inspiration Point, every part of Hilltop invites you to lay aside the weight of daily life and rediscover joy in the intimacy of God.
Hilltop: How a Vision, a Wildfire, and a Series of Miracles Led to a Place of Rest for God’s People
Stories of God’s faithfulness surround us—quiet wonders waiting to be seen. Among the cliffs and pines of Southern California stands one such story: Hilltop Renewal Center, a living testament to God’s goodness and strength.
In their book Hilltop, Gene and Judy TenElshof share how vision, wildfire, and miracles came together to create a lasting place of rest. It’s a journey of perseverance, hope, and the unmistakable faithfulness of God.
