July 28, 2010

Annual HIV/AIDS Hep C retreat set Aug. 27-29

The annual retreat for people affected by HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis C, sponsored by the Office of Social Ministry of the Archdiocese of Denver, will be held next month at Sacred Heart Retreat House in Sedalia, Colo. 

Called “Guilt—Friend or Foe” the focus of the retreat will be on how these afflictions impact a person’s ability to engage life and view it with great possibility, according to Al Hooper, director of the Office of Social Ministry and member of the retreat team.

“This is our ninth year holding this retreat,” Hooper said. “It’s a place where people can feel safe and comfortable in our discussions and sessions.  The key is to make everyone feel welcomed, loved and supported.  It’s open to anyone—family members, caregivers or friends—anyone who’s life is affected by HIV/AIDS or Hepatitis C.”

During the three-day event, participants will take part in morning and afternoon discussions, reconciliation and healing services as well as the Eucharist.  Other members of the retreat team are Jesuit Father Richard Dunphy, who has counseled people living with and affected by HIV/AIDS, and Father Robert Fisher, pastor of All Souls Church in Englewood and Archdiocese of Denver pastoral advisor and support group facilitator for the HIV/AIDS Hep C Ministry.  There is no cost but donations are welcome.

The retreat will be Aug. 27-29. Sacred Heart Retreat House is located at 4801 N. Highway 67 in Sedalia.  For more information, call 303-715-3220 or e-mail al.hooper@archden.org.

Hooper said he hopes that people who attend the retreat will gain a new understanding of their Catholic faith, strength and comfort.

“I hope they come away with a renewed commitment to life and all that life has to offer,” he said, “as well as the understanding that relationships with those around us are important and necessary for health.”