Bonnie’s Virtual Retreat Experience

I was the fortunate recipient of a drawing that gave me a free registration for the 2020 Hope Mommies Fall Virtual Retreat. My child loss occurred over 25 years ago during a time when there was very little support available. I also have experienced grandchild loss. 

The communication and preparation for retreat was outstanding. There were suggestions on what to bring and how to get the most out of a virtual retreat. For example, bringing with you some memories from your child, a candle or flowers to decorate your room. There was an app you could download and everything was so user friendly but also included very beautiful graphics you could print. 

My daughter graciously invited me to join her at her hotel about 30 minutes away from my home. I strongly suggest doing this if it is in your budget. Since the cost of a virtual retreat is so economical, the added expense of a night away will work for many of us. 

Miraculously I had found a box, at the bottom of a cedar chest, that I had kept for my baby Hannah. Wisely I waited until Retreat to open that box. Jennie, our  Hope Mommies director opened Retreat asking us for words that people were feeling. Mine was “teary” as I knew I was entering into a pain that had been buried unresolved for many years. Jennie then lovingly prayed over us all. 

The theme of Retreat was “Streams in the Desert” which seemed so fitting during the COVID crisis. Each session included amazing worship music along with teaching and reflection questions. 

You could choose different breakout sessions, but you also could access all sessions afterward through the app as they were available for a month, possibly longer. I was able to not only grieve the loss of Hannah so many years ago but also the loss of my two granddaughters Eisley and Ava. . 

One of my favorite sessions was by Shannon Owens teaching us how to write a Lament. This was particularly healing as I put this into practice. I also participated in the Yoga session! There truly was something always to do, yet it was relaxed and not stressful at all. 

I’m very thankful for virtual retreat. I probably wouldn’t have been able to travel from California to a retreat center in another state, COVID or not. I am looking forward to our coming “Selah” retreat in early August and I hope you’ll be able to join me along with many other Hope Mommies. 

Bonnie Klein
Hope Mom to Hannah Joy

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Registration for Selah 2021 Virtual Retreat is now open. To learn more about the retreat and to register click here.

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