Peoria, Ill., Oct 28, 2004 / 22:00 pm
Catholic clergy of Peoria gathered for a seminar Tuesday to learn how to minister to women experiencing post-abortion trauma and help them heal.
The seminar was offered by Theresa Burke, founder of Rachel's Vineyard Ministries and co-author of the support group model "Rachel's Vineyard - A Psychological and Spiritual Journal of Post Abortion Healing."
Rachel’s Vineyard offers retreats to post-abortive women that include exercises aimed at helping participants deal with grief and anger. About 350 of the retreats are being held this year in 15 countries and that men and women are invited.
Two Rachel's Vineyard retreats will be offered by the Diocese of Peoria Feb. 25-27, 2005, and Oct. 28-30, 2005.