One may desire to celebrate the resolutions they have made to God, to
others and to self. Such celebration often takes the form of music
or a communion service.
Worship may include preaching, prayer, and singing.
ARMY VIEW OF RETREATS
Religious
retreats
in
the
Army
are
viewed
as
special
opportunities for soldiers and other special interest groups to focus
on issues that affect their lives. To facilitate this focusing, the
individuals are taken to retreat sites that are removed from the
normal duty or recreational activity areas.
These retreats are
normally one day experiences. Usually the purpose is to provide the
opportunity for personal growth, in a spiritual and recreational
atmosphere.
These retreats are usually for the soldier and not for the
family members.
There are couples retreats, and unit spouses'
retreats that will only be mentioned in this subcourse.
The UMT
provides site, cost, program and the necessary administrative
support. Maybe the UMT's hardest job is selling the retreat program
to the unit commander.
SELLING THE RETREAT PROGRAM TO THE UNIT COMMANDER
The UMT must convince the commander that a retreat program will
facilitate the mission. It must be presented as an essential part
of the command's religious program for the unit. The commander must
know that the pay-offs for such a program are of benefit for both the
unit and the individual soldier.
For example:
A Retreat on Communications.
The pay-off may be
to enhance communications between individuals in order that a better
(clearer) understanding can be realized.
An
atmosphere of
cooperation can grow in the barracks and in the work areas of the
soldier.
Another example: A Retreat on Person-hood. The pay-off may be
to help one to understand the meaning of becoming a person, to foster
understanding about responsibilities and values, and to improve
personal values, and outlooks on life.
If the commander knows for
certain a program will enhance the mission and make the job easier,
he or she will most likely buy it.
If retreats are a part of the overall
mission
unit, it is of
utmost importance that they become a part
of the
unit's training
schedule.
In this way the S-3 (Operations
Officer)
can assist you
with the logistics.
It is also important
to have
a good working
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