Last year, I rather preached than to attend the church retreat. This year, as some thought/hope I would go, I am sure they will be disappointed.
One simple rule: From their leading of fellowships, pursue of word of God (I target this not at the commoners but the spiritual leaders), I'd say, let them suffer their own fruit that they bear, lest they never learn.
Events like retreats, gatherings, even choirs are not bad. But how to invite or attract people to join, that's the important key.
Do we attract people by God's word and God's word alone? If not, then compromise is the only other solution.
But why not labor in raising our Lord on high? Instead of working on schemes of cunningness and ulterior motives and vain attractions?