If you are a woman who has been living cross culturally as a part of a faith based ministry and have transitioned back to North America in the past year, I wanted to make you aware of a retreat that might be a good fit for you:
THRIVE Ministry hosts a summer retreat each year for women on home assignment or who are transitioning back to North America {in the past year}.
I have been a part of several of these retreats, and I can say that they provide an amazing opportunity for you to connect with other women who have similar experiences. The major costs of the time is paid for by supporters of their ministry so it is a low cost experience for you! You can read more about the offerings of the retreats on their website.
This summer they are hosting a retreat in Colorado from July 14-17th. I would highly encourage you to check it out if this sounds like something that would be a good fit for you. For those who are still living internationally, they also offer retreats around the world. The next one will be happening in Peru in April.
Hi, Ruthie. When I saw this post I got so excited! However, I went to the Thrive website and it clearly states that attendees must currently be a full time, support based cross cultural missionary. It did not say anything about those in re-entry being welcome – only those who happen to be stateside on furlough (or home assignment as they call it these days). Boo. I am considering looking into being a volunteer, though, just so maybe I can glean something from the experience. Sure wish I had known about this ministry when we came home a year and a half ago.
Shay, I sometimes volunteer for these retreats, and they do allow you to attend if you are within your first year of moving back to the US. However, it sounds like you’ve been back a bit longer then that. Have you looked at MTI’s Debriefing and Renewal week? It is also in Colorado, and I would recommend it as a great option no matter how long it has been since you’ve moved back. The great thing about MTI (mission training international) is it’s for the whole family if you have spouse or children.