May 30 - Jun 01, 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 Maryland
Learn MoreMaryland
Our Maryland retreats are held at NorthBay Adventure Camp in North East. NorthBay is located in Elk Neck State Park at the head of the Chesapeake Bay. Attendees will stay in the Guest House, which has eleven private bedrooms, each with its own bath, a kitchen/dining area, a billiard room, and a comfortable living room-style meeting area. NorthBay is located about 60 miles northeast of Baltimore and about 70 miles southwest of Philadelphia. Guests are welcome to relax in adirondack chairs on the beach, enjoy the sunset over the Bay from the deck, or take a walk out on the dock. More adventurous guests can kayak in the Bay, swim in the pool, or ride the zip line. 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 NorthBay 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.
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.