We mourn the death of our mother all the days of our life. Whether our mother died this year or forty years ago, we grieve. Some of us grieve what we had and some of us grieve what never was in our relationship with our mother. This retreat offers women an opportunity to explore the significance of mother loss. Offered by the Loyola Spirituality Center at the Benedictine Center. (Overnight Rate: $265; Commuter Rate: $215.)
Retreat begins at 6:00 pm Friday and ends at 3:00 pm Saturday.
Participants may call Linda Cherek with questions regarding this retreat at 651.641.0008 x26.
Reflections from Daughters
“Why has it taken me so long to begin to talk about missing out on having a mother around while I was a teen?”
“My mother’s death not only affected me but also the dynamics and relationships of my extended family. I needed the collective wisdom of a leader and other women who knew intuitively the significance of this kind of loss and supported each other in mourning it.”
“What a wonderful opportunity to take some time to reflect on my Mom and how her presence and relationship with me has impacted my life.”
“I remember experiencing a variety of emotions and feelings in a safe, respectful, and caring environment.”
“I remember feeling the sacredness of how each person’s story was received in a loving, and nonjudgmental manner.”
“I remember feeling the presence of my Mom, and the presence of the other Moms.”
“I remember feeling a lightness and that I could keep moving forward.”
About the Facilitator
Linda Cherek
Linda’s work in bringing God’s presence to those she encounters is grounded in her understanding and commitment to notice the Holy in everyday life especially in the significant challenges we experience. She embraced the gifts of spiritual awareness and the opportunities for growth in her spiritual journey following the unexpected death of her oldest daughter. Her spiritual journey has provided the sacred space to encounter God in unexpected places through journaling, music, poetry, prayer and the body. Linda has a special interest in the impact of loss and trauma and understands how it impacts the body, the heart, the soul and one’s relationship with God and the world.
Linda will welcome you no matter what your faith tradition or spiritual beliefs. She will accompany you on your spiritual journey, encouraging you to deepen your relationship with the God of your understanding. She welcomes spiritual exploration and awareness of where the Holy impacts your life.
Linda received her Master ‘s Degree in Social Work from the University of St Thomas and the University of St Catherine. She received her Spiritual Direction certificate from Sacred Ground in St Paul, MN. She is a Fellow in Thanatology and has a Certificate in Pastoral Bereavement Counseling. She retired after more than 25 years’ work in private practice as a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. She provides individual and group spiritual direction, she accompanies people in the Extended Spiritual Exercises and also utilizes Focusing in her spiritual direction practice.