Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

Our Lady of Good Counsel Retreat House in Waverly is launching a new volunteer ambassador program aimed at enhancing the experience of retreatants. Sarina Stokes, the outreach and ministry coordinator for the retreat house, emphasized the importance of volunteers in welcoming visitors and creating a sense of home. Stokes stated, “Those who join the program will be integral in welcoming retreatants, helping them feel comfortable and invited and giving them a sense of home.”

The volunteer ambassadors will play a crucial role in assisting with retreats and other events hosted at the retreat house. Stokes highlighted that volunteers will have the opportunity to help during retreat weekends by greeting visitors, assisting with check-in, guiding them to their rooms, and providing support throughout their stay. Additionally, volunteers will engage in prayer for the retreat master and participants to ensure a spiritually enriching experience.

One of the key components of the program is that volunteer ambassadors are required to attend a retreat each year. Stokes emphasized the significance of firsthand experience in understanding the mission of the retreat house, enabling volunteers to better serve visitors. Apart from on-site assistance, volunteers will also be tasked with promoting Our Lady of Good Counsel and upcoming retreats within their own communities and parishes.

Training sessions will be conducted during the summer to equip volunteers with the necessary skills to enhance the Friday night check-in process and assist with virtual retreat options. By engaging volunteers in this capacity, Father Gary Coulter and the retreat house staff aim to expand their ministry efforts and provide more individuals with the opportunity to encounter Jesus through retreat experiences.

Stokes expressed that the structured volunteer program will complement the existing contributions of regular volunteers, providing a more organized approach to supporting the retreat house. The program envisions volunteers representing diverse backgrounds and locations to reflect the broad reach of retreatants visiting Our Lady of Good Counsel.

In conclusion, Stokes reiterated the retreat house's mission to offer a welcoming and warm environment for all participants, stating, “We just want people to come alongside our mission, to provide a greater space of comfort and warmth at the retreat house.” With the introduction of the ambassador program, Our Lady of Good Counsel aims to further enrich the spiritual journey of individuals seeking solace and connection with Jesus Christ during retreats.