After Long Hiatus, Coworker Spiritual Retreat Rises from the Ashes

March 26, 2025

The well-being of our young people lies at the core of our mission. But we also prioritize the health and well-being of our coworkers. As it is for our young people, we believe that offering coworkers the opportunity to get away from the day to day and reflect through our spiritual retreats can be an important component of a holistic wellness program.  

“[The spiritual retreat] is a unique opportunity that you won’t get at many places,” said Marc Velasquez, Director of Milieu Training & Spiritual Culture. 

Recently, a group of our coworkers attended a weekend spiritual retreat at LaSalle Manor Retreat Center in Plano, Ill. Not only did they recharge their batteries, they also made meaningful connections with each other, reflected and discussed relevant topics on personal and professional growth, and enjoyed fun activities together.  

This year’s retreat is a welcome return after being put on hold due to the the COVID-19 pandemic. Now the retreat is back and with the perfect theme, “Rising from the Ashes.” 

“We built the sessions around [our theme],” Velasquez said. “[We looked] at where we’re struggling or needing some growth. Whether that be personally, professionally, financially, in our relationships, and in mental wellness too.” 

One activity was candle making. It symbolized rising through difficult moments, relationships, physical and mental health, and personal growth. 

Afterwards, they reflected on those topics and lit their candles to signify their desire to learn and grow from their challenges.  

Additionally, Gewanda Monroe, a program manager, led a superhero activity, in which attendees designed superhero capes, and discussed how to rise above their obstacles and things that gives them strength.  

“[Coworkers who attend] come away feeling more connected to their reasons for doing the work we do,” he said. “But also, connected to their coworkers, which is always a life-giving feeling to come away with,” he said. 

For Patrick Stevens, human resources coordinator, the retreat was his third. As he reflected on his experiences, he was especially grateful for his first retreat, which helped him integrate into the Home more easily and develop strong connections with some of his coworkers.

“I went [on the retreat in] 2019, [and] it completely changed my whole connection to [Mercy Home],” Stevens said. “I got to know the people a lot better, and it made me feel more comfortable at work.”  

But on this retreat, Stevens also gained a new perspective about himself.  

“I learned that I need to take more time to remove myself from my normal routine in life,” Stevens said. “We get caught up in our day-to-day obligations, and it’s vital for your mental and emotional health to press pause and reflect on where you’re at in life.” 

Mercy Home’s spiritual retreat is not only for coworkers who are very religious or even spiritually inclined. All are welcome to attend and can benefit from the experience.  

“If you’re looking to get more comfortable at Mercy Home, and more connected with your coworkers, then the retreat is the perfect way to make those connections, and to take some time in your life to relax and laugh with new friends,” Stevens said. 

And even though the retreat is over, he can’t wait for the next one. 

“[I’m] already looking forward to next year,” he said.