Survivor Reflection: Safe, Alone in a Chapel

Ibid. (approx. August 2009). A reflection on the unexpected experience of feeling safe in a Catholic chapel during a retreat for survivors.

Last Saturday at St. Ann’s parish, a private, day-long retreat was held for victims of abuse. This diocesan program has matured since beginning in 2004. Long-time participants now offer encouragement to newcomers. As Bishop Loverde said during the prayer service, “You are like the good Samaritan – carrying others who are wounded to the Divine Innkeeper, ready to assist healing.” Many of us are drawn together to hear how other victims have survived and then go on to thrive in life because of (not despite) the wounds of abuse.

Attendees are quick to agree: We feel gratitude for a unique ability to help others who are struggling with grief and pain so great that most people recoil. That is why our ability to find healing and begin to thrive depends on gatherings such as this one.

Bishop wisely has expanded our groups to include victims of other abuse and violence. The opportunity motivated many of us to remain – to help others. Now, retreats and prayer services not only tend to people newly facing painful experiences within the spiritual care of the Church and her sacraments. They also permit us to participate in care-giving.

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