Diocesan coalition to offer retreat for persons with developmental disabilities

By RENEE WEBB, Globe editor
Jan. 25, 2007

"Whiter than Snow" is the theme of an upcoming retreat for adults who have moderate developmental disabilities.

Sponsored by the Coalition for Ministry with Persons Having Disabilities, this retreat will be offered at three locations in the Diocese of Sioux City this year.

According to Bev Hurni, the diocesan director of adult and family ministries and coordinator of the coalition, they opted to add an extra site this year because the retreat on the Eastern side of the diocese has had quite large numbers for the past several years.

"Whiter than Snow" will be offered from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the following dates and at these locations: 1) Kingsley Community Center of Kingsley on Feb. 24. Please register for this session by Feb. 15, contact Sandy Whitehill at (712) 233-7530. 2) Greteman Center of Holy Spirit Church in Carroll on March 3. Please register by Feb. 22, contact Mary Kennedy-Seiler at (515) 332-4405. 3) Duhigg Center of St. Patrick Church in Estherville on March 10. Please register by March 1, contact Donna Day-Templin at (712) 209-0922.

In addition to offering more manageable size in regard to numbers, the third site also means that the locations are more accessible.

Hurni pointed out that the theme of the retreat "Whiter than Snow" is based off of Psalm 51 which states: "Wash me and I shall be whiter than snow. A clean heart create for me O God and a steadfast spirit renew within me."

Vera Ludwig, diocesan coordinator of family programs and co-coordinator of the coalition, said the theme focuses "on letting Christ become a part of us and wash over us, taking the bad stuff away."

A committee of coalition members selected the theme and planned the retreat. The coalition has sponsored this event for many years and its popularity has remained.

"It's an event that wouldn't be possible for every parish to do because they generally do not have that large of population (of persons with developmental disabilities) in their own parishes. Even group homes like the opportunity to bring people together from other group homes," noted Hurni. "They appreciate the fact that we provide that opportunity for them."

Some of the activities that the retreatants will experience during the retreat are music, talks and crafts. Each year, coalition members create craft activities that tie into the theme.

Ludwig mentioned that for one activity they will make snow globes. During this activity they will discuss that each snowflake is unique and that all people are unique.

"The crafts are theirs to take home and then it serves as a reminder of the retreat," she said.

Hurni pointed out that the closing prayer service will include a handwashing ritual.

Many of the participants come from area group homes, but this retreat is open to all persons 18 years and older with moderate developmental disabilities. Registration forms have been sent to parishes and group homes. For those seeking a registration form, they may contact the Office of Adult and Family Ministries at (712) 233-7530.

If people are interested in volunteering to help with the retreat, Lugwig recommended that they call the contact person listed for registration and they can get them in contact with the volunteer coordinator.

"People usually really enjoy the day. The participants are so accepting of others and enjoy being around others," said Ludwig.

They noted that the annual retreats are supported through the generous donations of Knights of Columbus.