Veterans Meeting – 1/2025 – Report

Between May 9–11, 2025, 17 veterans returned to the Therapy Centre in Ozd to reconnect, find strength, and to receive and offer support – both to one another and to the residents currently undergoing therapy. “The Veterans’ Meeting is not a typical class reunion, but rather a therapeutic process,” as one of the organizing staff members put it. For those returning, it is a time for reflection, evaluation, and laying down burdens; for the residents, it serves as a source of inspiration and motivation.

All activities during the weekend take place together: the Friday afternoon bonding discussion, the evening feelings circle, and the Saturday morning meeting where veterans, just like the residents, sign up to share a message, a prayer, or a burden. Also held jointly was the afternoon presentation, which this year focused on relapse and the journey of recovery.

Recovery becomes possible when we identify the root issue or blockage that led to the slip or relapse, and we find concrete tools to change our dysfunctional patterns. This truth was confirmed through the personal life experiences openly shared by the participants.

“This Veterans’ Meeting was especially meaningful for me. Having relapsed myself, the theme of staying on track versus relapse was incredibly valuable and relevant. It helped me move closer to understanding, processing, and — most importantly — starting over. I felt like I was part of a big family, where older and younger brothers, newcomers and those who have successfully completed their therapy reconnected and shared their struggles, joys, and sorrows. It brought to light invaluable life lessons and deep emotions. I left filled with strength, energy, and courage.” (István-György Fodor)

The Veterans’ Meeting concluded on Sunday morning with a group evaluation, followed by a worship service and lunch together.