Many of you, I’m sure, are familiar with Samaritan’s Purse and their “Operation Christmas Child” shoeboxes.
But did you know that Samaritan’s Purse also runs a ministry called “Operation Heal Our Patriots“?
Operation Heal Our Patriots, a ministry project of Samaritan’s Purse, focuses on bringing spiritual refreshment, physical renewal, and marriage enrichment to wounded and injured U.S. military service members and their spouses. To thank these brave men and women for their service and sacrifice, we offer programs uniquely developed to strengthen the marriage relationship and build hope for the future through the transforming power of God’s Word.
Operation Heal Our Patriots’ retreat center, Samaritan Lodge Alaska, sits on five acres of pristine lakefront property on the protected shores of Hardenburg Bay, in the southwestern portion of Lake Clark National Park and Preserve. One of the deepest lakes in Alaska, Lake Clark spans 42 miles, surrounded by the glories of the Alaskan wild.
As I’ve researched and read and watched videos about this program, I have been more and more impressed with the purpose and plan of the ministry.
During each summer season, 150 couples are given the opportunity to spend a week at this amazing location, experiencing unique outdoor activities, marriage enrichment workshops, fellowship with other military couples, times of worship, and more. All travel to and from the lodge is planned and paid for by Samaritan’s Purse.
But the program does not end when couples leave Alaska.
What military couples learn and experience through Operation Heal Our Patriots gives them a solid biblical foundation upon which to build a Christ-centered marriage. Helping them live it out at home is what leads to their long-term healing. That is why our ministry includes aftercare services that include:
- Area military chaplain referrals
- Local church follow-up
- Additional resources for spiritual growth
If you have about 5 minutes, please watch this video about a young couple’s struggle and the healing they experienced while at Operation Heal Our Patriots.
This is a ministry I believe very strongly in–because we are a military family and because of my husband’s current training to be a Family Life Chaplain. I see the incredible need for strengthening military marriages, and I am thrilled as I learn more and more about Operation Heal Our Patriots. This post was written out of that excitement; there was no compensation given by Samaritan’s Purse.
This sounds like a wonderful ministry. I’m sorry to say, I’ve never heard of it or Samaritan’s purse. I’m so glad you made me aware of it. I will be checking it out.
#BB100
I was so impressed with all of what they do! Operation Heal Our Patriots is one that is especially near and dear to my heart.
This sounds like a wonderful ministry. I’m sorry to say, I’ve never heard of it or Samaritan’s purse. I’m so glad you made me aware of it. I will be checking it out.
#BB100
I was so impressed with all of what they do! Operation Heal Our Patriots is one that is especially near and dear to my heart.
What a great organization. I haven’t heard of it before, but I will be checking it out.
It really is a wonderful ministry! I’m glad you stopped by today. Enjoy the rest of your weekend!
What a great organization. I haven’t heard of it before, but I will be checking it out.
We pray for Samaritan’s Purse, and I’m very thankful for the programs they have in ministry. This is a great one. Thank you for featuring it! I’m stopping by from BYB.
I’m really excited about this ministry that they’ve started. It meets such a big need among military families. Thanks for stopping by!
We love Samaritan’s Purse. I didn’t realize they did this as well. What a blessing. I’m a military brat and my brother is currently active duty Army stationed in MD. I’m grateful for any organization that reaches out to our armed servicemen and women. Thank you and your husband for your service and ministry. I’m glad to find you via BYB.
God Bless!
I’m glad you stopped by! I will tell my husband what you said—and please tell your brother the same. This Samaritan’s ministry truly is a blessing because it meets such a huge need among military families today.
We were just notified we’d been selected to attend for a week in June. We are so very excited! I know God has great things planned for us.
Oh Janet—that’s so exciting! I’m very happy for you!