Gulf Coast chaplains take time away for second annual retreat
The retreat provides chaplains a much-needed getaway to reflect and recharge, learn self-care strategies, and build community with others in their field.
By Michelle Ryan-Day
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Chaplains who serve patients and communities along the Gulf Coast gathered at the Beckwith Camp and Conference Center in Fairhope for the annual Gulf Coast Chaplaincy Association retreat in October, which was also Clergy/Chaplaincy Appreciation Month.
Chaplain Kim Crawford Meeks, manager of the Spiritual Health and Counseling Department at USA Health, revived the association when she moved from Birmingham to Mobile.
The retreat provides chaplains a much-needed getaway to reflect and recharge, learn self-care strategies, and build community with others in their field. All participants enjoyed the fellowship, growth opportunities, and nurturing for mind and soul found in nature at the beautiful Beckwith Camp.
Guest presenters during the retreat included: Cathy O’Keefe, M.Ed., CTRS, who retired from the University of South Alabama after a 40-year career as recreation practitioner and faculty member; Peyton McElroy, Ph.D., assistant professor of medical education at the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine; and Margaret Wielbut, art therapist at the Mitchell Cancer Institute.
Participants included USA Health chaplains Crawford Meeks, Henry Thomas, and Brady Powers, as well as EAP Manager Fletcher Eaton and Taylor Hamm, an intern in the department.
Chaplains from the community in attendance were: Chaplain Timothy Mayhall, director of spiritual care, Southeast Health, Dothan; Chaplain Tony Legear, Mobile Police Department; Dana Self, Effective Gospel Outreach Ministries; Gloria Williams, Reset in Motion Ministries; and Lorie Evans, activity director, Child Life at Children's & Women’s Hospital, who is also an M.Div student intern.
