By Stefanie Libertore, Director of Hope & Healing
The 2026 Deeper Still Retreat was a new beginning for six women and one man all of whom came seeking healing for the hidden pain of abortion–and longing to believe that healing was possible. Over the course of the weekend, heaviness and pain morphed into peace and love as their stories shifted from encountering the compassion of Christ and the hope of redemption.
This once-a-year weekend of honesty, self-introspection and realization is hosted by Deeper Still with which we partner. It’s an extremely intense session where a handful of participants experience a myriad of emotions ultimately leading to joy and forgiveness through Jesus Christ.
A few of the highlights included:
• Before making a first-time commitment to Christ, one participant felt compelled to run outside into a heavy downpour of rain. Soaking wet, she exclaimed, “I feel so clean!”
Indeed, she was!
• Another participant shared, “Today is the first day in 15 years that I haven’t awakened with a feeling of anxiety.”
• Two of the male team members knelt in front of all of the women and asked forgiveness on behalf of the men who have abused and abandoned them, who deserted them, didn’t defend them, and who were silent when their voices were needed. There was not a dry eye in that place!
Every person left the retreat feeling the forgiveness of God, deeper healing, and walked in greater freedom. Each testimony gave way to a gentle flow of tears for comfort, joy, and gratitude for the One who restores, redeems, and makes all things new!