A Healing Retreat Program for Military Veterans
October 11-13, 2013 - November 8-10, 2013
Coming Home
Mayslake Ministries is the first organization in the state of Illinois to offer weekend retreats to any military man or woman suffering from the effects of Post Trumatic Spiritual Stress. These retreats offer a safe environment for veterans to begin to tell their story in the company of others who share the same experience. It is in the telling of the story that the process for healing and reconciliation can begin to unfold. These retreats are offered free of charge to all soldiers and their significant others. Retreat facilitator, Sr. Linda McClenahan shares her wisdom:
"I'd like to point out that most of us think we have a faith, but chances are that we've had a belief that's been shattered," she said. "Part of this process includes storytelling. When Jesus rose from the dead and appeared to the disciples, He appeared with his wounds showing, He didn't hide His woundedness. Part of that was part of his identity now. The disciples wouldn't have recognized Him without it. That's why it's important for us, in a safe environment, to be able to share our woundedness with others who are wounded, and together we move toward healing and faith."
Sr. Linda McClenahan, a former Vietnam vet, licensed counselor, and Dominican sister has worked with the Military in the area of PTSD for thirty years. Sr. Linda is assisted by Augie Sisco, a former marine, husband, father, and an affiliate of Mayslake Ministries.
For Those Who Wait
Mayslake Ministries offers a parish based spiritual support program for parents and spouses of military deployed overseas. These meetings include shared prayer and conversation.