Street Retreat 2008
Quincy – Fall Creek
By STEVE EIGHINGER
Herald-Whig Staff Writer
The first time around, they walked the streets of Quincy.
This time, the journey is extended.
The community is invited once again to "step into someone else's shoes for 24 hours" and take part in a second Street Retreat that will allow everyday people to experience what it is like to be homeless.
"This unique event will take participants from Quincy to Fall Creek overnight," said Brother Ed Arambasich, OFM of Quincy University and chaplain for the Quincy Fire Department.
Participants will be involved in the retreat from 10:00 a.m. Saturday until returning to Quincy by 9 a.m. Sunday.
"You will be poor for 24 hours, walk the downtown streets of Quincy by yourself, then out of town to Fall Creek, keeping your eyes and ears open at all times," Arambasich said.
In the original Street Retreat during Lent, about a dozen participants walked separately in and around downtown Quincy for most of a day and then gathered to reflect.
The itinerary will have participants gather at 10:00 a.m. Saturday at the Living Room, South Eighth and Adams, to discuss what to expect during the ensuing 24 hours.
"The idea is to be aware of those around you, and your reactions to racism, fears, anxieties, compassion, love, sadness and joy," Arambasich said. "As you move along the day or night, the mantra 'What holds us separate? What keeps us separated? As we walk the streets, what still connects us?" can be prayed for meditation."
Participants are encouraged to dress in a comfortable fashion, and if possible, bring a backpack, umbrella, hooded sweat shirt, sleeping bag, water, candy bars, snacks, flashlight, first-aid kit and toothbrush.
"And most of all, a positive attitude," Arambasich said.
Arambasich said iPods won't be allowed and cell phones are to be used for emergencies only. Arambasich will have his cell phone on at all times.
For further Street Retreats call Brother Ed Arambasich, OFM at (217) 316-9272.
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