Indiana

Nov 06, 2027 - One Day Mini-Retreat for Bereaved Moms

Our Mini-Retreats for Bereaved Moms are one-day events typically held on Saturdays. Moms who attend will be treated to a day of pampering, delicious food, and some much-needed fellowship with other bereaved, but believing, Moms. Each event is beautifully decorated according to the season of the year. We have found so much comfort from drawing near to other women of faith who understand what it is like to lose a child. We believe you will, too. We also believe that life-long friendships will be formed as we support and encourage one another in a way that no one else can. Our groups are small and intimate, with a maximum of ten moms at each event. There is no cost to attend one of these events.

Come, knowing you will be surrounded by people who care, who understand, and who will pray for you. This will be a safe place, a place where we can honestly discuss our struggles, knowing we will not be judged, because every one of us has been there at one time or another. We will also share our victories, and rejoice with each other as we move along the road toward healing.

Hosted in Indiana

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Indiana

Our Indiana retreats are held at the Shunem House, a gorgeous, sprawling 11,000 square foot home in a lovely quiet neighborhood in the central Indiana community of Noblesville. Shunem House was created to be a place where missionaries and their families can stay during transition times as they spend time away from their field of service, and it also functions as a retreat and meeting space for church staff and Christian organizations. It is designed to be a haven where refreshment in the Lord can be found. The Indianapolis International Airport is about 50 minutes away. Lodging for this event will be provided at the nearby Courtyard by Marriott Friday and Saturday nights. All meals from Friday night through Sunday morning are provided, and there is no cost to attend this event. This event is open to both single parents and married couples. All attendees must meet the requirements of our Attendance Eligibility Policy and comply with our Housing Policy. Please review both policies in the About Us drop-down menu before registering.

Led by

Shawnda Freer

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Shawnda Freer

Shawnda has been married to Keith for 36 years and lives north of Indianapolis, Indiana. She has a professional background in education and counseling and now serves in care ministry at their church. 

Together, Shawnda and Keith raised two wonderful children, Meghan & Andrew, who both love Jesus. Meghan was a junior in college, majoring in Christian Ministries and Spanish, when she went to Heaven in May of 2018, at the age of 21. Andrew is thriving as a young adult and is married to Anna. 

Although the Christian faith has been an important aspect of all areas of her life, child loss opened new areas of understanding about the character of God, the hope of Jesus, the truth of Scripture, and the pain of death. Shawnda now comes alongside bereaved moms to grieve, grow, and learn together. Since 2021, she and Keith have served bereaved parents through their Christian retreat ministry, GriefHope, and now serve through While We're Waiting retreats and Our Hearts Are Home conferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do retreats cost?

Our retreats are 100% free, though we do accept a voluntary donation at the close of the retreat. 

While We're Waiting is a 501(c)3 non-profit that operates entirely off of generous donations. 

Who can come to a retreat?
Can single parents come to a retreat?
My spouse does not want to attend. Can I still come?
It's just been a few months since my child died. Should I come to a retreat?
It's been many years since my child died ... Should I come to a retreat? 
My child died when he or she was an adult ... Should I come to a retreat?
My child was stillborn or died as an infant ... Should I come to a retreat?
How many people typically attend a retreat? 
Can I attend more than one retreat?
What if the retreat I want to attend is full?
I don't believe in God ... or I'm struggling with my faith. Can I still come?

Register for this retreat

2027 Nov 6th - Indiana - One Day Mini-Retreat for Bereaved Moms

Spouse (please review Attendance Eligibility Policy to ensure eligibility to attend)

Please provide us with the name and phone number of someone we can contact in the event of an emergency at the retreat:

Release of Liability: I agree to waive, discharge claims, and release from liability the While We're Waiting ministry from any and all liability on account of, or in any way resulting from injuries, damages, or illness (including COVID-19) even if caused by negligence of While We're Waiting. I further hold harmless While We're Waiting from any claims, damages, injuries, illnesses, or losses caused by my own negligence while a guest at this retreat site. I understand and intend that this assumption of risk and release is binding upon my heirs, executors, administrators and assigns, and includes any minors and/or guests accompanying me in activities associated with While We're Waiting events.