Mar 13 – 15: Peace and Reconciliation Men’s Retreat
Day 1
This was the first retreat held for men. Participants listened attentively to the sessions, but worked in silence when they were at the tables. Kae changed direction by encouraging a 30-minute soccer game. After that they started to talk. By supper time there was general chatter and laughter around the tables. Card playing at the end of the day furthered their team building.
Day 2
Werner taught a lesson on Joseph and we brainstormed words for how Joseph might have felt at different stages. The men worked in groups to complete the sentence, “I feel —— when ———. Kae used Psalm 23 and asked them to share why they placed their sheep where they did. They also shared around the tables as they made their own shepherds and sheep. At each step the level of sharing increased.
Following afternoon tea they opened up and all shared their stories, some speaking more than once. This was what we were working toward. The men enjoyed games, soccer, singing and even an entertaining and laughter-filled talent show in the evening where everyone was included and cheered on.
Day 3
Morning worship was lively with singing and dancing. When the men shared at the last session they all expressed their appreciation for the retreat. They have new friends who understand them and will support them.
Comments