Embracing the Journey

 

Embracing the Journey is the theme of a June 5-7, 2009 retreat.

Location: Western Iowa (exact location not posted, for security reasons) with participants using either Omaha, NE or Des Moines, IA airports

For a limited number of women who have experienced collusion and spiritual abuse, with the Bible likely being one of the primary weapons used, when reporting or working for change in how the community of faith deals with sexual or domestic abuse. Women who may have stood alone and are continuing to feel marginalized because of their stands. Participants may be survivors, advocates, or family members.

TESTIMONY from a survivor of abuse by a Catholic priest. This lady attended the 2007 retreat: "You said, before the retreat, that hopefully coming to the retreat would give us a real jump-start on our healing journey. I have found that to be true. Since the retreat, I've given the sermon at church and, last week, spoke at a small group at Bethany House, an ecumenical house of prayer run by Catholics near my home. It's not that I don't still sometimes have struggles with severe emotional pain from the assault and collusion-- but they are less frequent and I am learning to take these times and use them as an impetus to move forward, speak out, educate others."

Cost is $350 for room, board, transportation to and from Omaha airport and all activities for the weekend. A limited number of scholarships or financial supplements may be available. $75 deposit and registration form must be completed by May 1, 2009.

This is an event for those who have moved beyond the initial stages of recovery from any initial abuse, have found a good deal of spiritual transformation in spite of the experience and may have serious questions about their former belief systems.

The purpose will be to re-frame the journey that has left so many with labels that are perjorative and scolding, to provide validation and inspiration, information about acculturation and why change seldom happens in closed systems, as well as connections with other women from similar backgrounds.

Because of the Web and the indepth connections that e-mail makes possible, registered participants will be able connect for several weeks before the retreat. This will allow us to forego many of the time-consuming introductions that can absorb so much of such weekend events, coming to retreat with a basic understanding of individual journeys, personal concerns and needs.

For further information and references from last year's Embracing the Journey retreat, please e-mail Dee Ann Miller.