Compassionate Gatherings

Compassionate Gatherings are mini-retreats focused on healing. We treat everyone who participates with compassion and respect. Each person owns their own story and their own perspective. We listen and reflect back to the story teller facts, feelings and heart held values expressed in his story--words that are healing and helpful. We shower each person who tells their story with love and support. Through this process we achieve spiritual healing for everyone in the community wounded by abuse. We are interested in reconciliation but recognize this is a journey for each individual to take at the time that is right for them. We support everyone on their journey wherever they are.

We meet the second Saturday of every month at Ascension Catholic Church with occasional potlucks elsewhere. Ascension is located at 7507 SE Yamhill Street in Portland, Oregon.

10 AM to Noon: Gathering of Survivors and their family members for spiritual and emotional support with Elizabeth Goeke, St. Anthony Room

11:30AM to Noon: Gathering of Listeners, prayer and preparation for listening, St. Francis Room

Noon to 1 PM: Hospitality and Community Building, St. Francis Room

1PM to 2 PM: Story Sharing

2 PM: Business

2:15 PM: Closing Circle
    What gifts did we witness today?
    Lighting of candles
    Group prayer