Who: Orthodox Christian families with children and adults with disabilities

When: Saturday, March 8, 2025, 1:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Where: St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church in Des Plaines

What: TEAM Belong Lenten Retreat with guest retreat leader Fr. Ephraim Peters, an inspirational retreat leader who together with his wife, Presbytera Teresa, has raised two sons with autism who are now in their 30s. Fr. Ephraim will lead two sessions with adults relating to the following themes:

• Maintaining an eternal perspective in the face of the unfairness and inequities our children are confronted with
• Developing faith-based strategies that bridge the transition from childhood to supporting adult children with physical, intellectual, emotional and sensory disabilities.
• Recognizing the emotional and spiritual impact on parents. Establishing skills for balancing advocacy and nurturing of our children with the need for self-care as individuals and in the marriage.

Children and Adults with Disabilities will have one-on-one support to engage in programming that will include music, art, movement, and lesson. Dinner will be provided.

This event is provided without a cost to participants, thanks to generous support from the Hellenic Foundation.