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

Our Lady of Good Counsel Retreat House in Waverly is scheduled to host “The Way: A Healing Retreat for Male Survivors of Abuse” from May 30 to June 1.

The purpose of the retreat is to provide male survivors of abuse a chance to either start or continue on a personal journey toward healing and restoration. This three-day retreat is designed as a sacred invitation, going beyond mere talks and quiet reflection.

Sue Stubbs, recognized for her work in trauma-informed spiritual healing, developed “The Way” as a refuge for those seeking peace, meaning, and healing through faith after experiencing abuse. The retreat involves guided meditations, prayer sessions, and the support of an intentional community to help participants look beyond past wounds toward a hopeful future.

Kevin Sevcik co-leads the retreat, bringing together individuals experienced in ministering to people with hidden wounds. The retreat combines Catholic faith teachings with compassionate understanding and clinical awareness to facilitate a holistic healing journey.

Father Gary Coulter, the director of the retreat house, highlighted the significance of this ministry. “We know how deep the wounds of abuse can go,” he stated. “‘The Way’ is a retreat that offers more than coping. It offers a path to encounter God’s healing love, to rediscover one’s worth, and to begin living in freedom again.”

Open to adult men from all faith backgrounds who have faced abuse and are prepared to take steps toward healing, the retreat prioritizes confidentiality and aims to provide a safe and supportive environment for participants. “The Way” is structured to help survivors encounter healing, reclaim their identity, and affirm that they are not alone.

For registration, visit goodcounselretreat.org or call 402-786-2705.