Jan 17 - 19, 2025 - Weekends for Parents Touched by Suicide
The While We’re Waiting Weekends for Parents Touched by Suicide are a recent addition to the retreats we offer. We recognize that the loss of a child to suicide is unique and that there is great value in hosting retreats that specifically address this situation. This will be a very special opportunity to spend some unhurried, relaxed time with other singles and couples who have experienced the loss of a child to suicide. We have found that there is no greater comfort than the fellowship of other Christian parents who truly understand the struggles that naturally accompany this type of loss. Our retreats offer that opportunity, and also provide a safe place to work through some of the questions and struggles we experience as grieving moms and dads who have lost children to suicide … all the while focusing on the hope we have of seeing our children again one day. There is so much encouragement to be found in spending time with other parents who truly understand our grief, but who also share the hope we have in Jesus.
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 North Carolina
Learn MoreNorth Carolina
Our North Carolina location is designated for our Weekends for Parents Touched by Suicide. These events are held at the Oceans 18 Beach House in Kill Devil Hills. This is a beautiful home with plenty of bedrooms with private baths for our guests, a comfortable meeting area with stunning views of the coast, and an expansive sandy beach for walking and shell collecting. This event is open to both single parents and married couples. Please refer to our Purity Policy, found under the "About Us" tab. Lodging at Oceans 18 for Friday and Saturday nights and all meals from Friday night through Sunday morning are provided, and there is no cost to attend this event.
Hal and Elizabeth Barge
Elizabeth and Hal are waiting to be reunited with their son John who died by suicide in May of 2020 at age 27. They have an adult daughter, Emily, and a son-in-law, Joe. Hal was in the US Submarine Force for 28 years and they moved frequently during that time. Both have been active in Bible Study Fellowship for decades and serve in their church in Norfolk, Virginia. They desire to encourage and offer hope to others who are suffering a sudden and unwelcome amputation to their family.
Miles and Lisa Armstrong
Miles and Lisa Armstrong’s son, Jacob, went to Heaven on September 5, 2018, when he lost his battle with depression and took his own life. The Armstrongs want to help end the stigma of mental illness by not being afraid to talk about it. Their hearts truly are with other bereaved parents and they feel blessed to be a part of the While We’re Waiting ministry. Most of all, they are so thankful for the hope they have in Jesus.
Our Schedule for the Weekend (all times local)
Friday
4-5:15 PM Arrival time
5:30 pm Dinner
7:00 pm Sharing Our Stories (Part 1)
Saturday
8:00 am Breakfast
8:45 am Sharing Our Stories (Part 2)
12:00 PM Lunch
1:00 pm Sharing Our Stories (Part 3)
3:00 pm Free Time
5:30 pm Dinner
7:00 Pm Topic Time
Sunday
8:00 AM Breakfast
8:45 AM Worship and Closing Time
10:00 AM Goodbyes
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Waiting List
This retreat is full, but you may complete the registration form to be added to our waiting list.