On Sunday, 10 law enforcement couples arrived in Port Alsworth, Alaska, for a weeklong Law Enforcement Appreciation Marriage Retreat. It’s the second retreat the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team has hosted this summer for officers who were wounded or experienced a highly traumatic situation in the line of duty.
“Pray for these officers,” Franklin Graham said at the start of the week. “Their jobs are so difficult and stressful as they serve to protect our communities. It's a blessing to have them with us.”
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The moment couples stepped off the plane in chilly Alaska, they received a warm welcome from staff and community members.
Rain did not deter couples from hiking, fishing and enjoying wildlife, all against the backdrop of beautiful Alaskan mountains.
Recreational activities help officers and their spouses mentally and spiritually reset from the stress of their daily lives.
Toward the end of the week, brave couples take a cold plunge into the Alaskan lake.
In addition to Billy Graham chaplains, cold case detective J. Warner Wallace is teaching and encouraging law enforcement officers in their walks with the Lord. God uses these sessions to bring individuals back to Himself and heal spiritual wounds.
Will Graham, vice president and associate evangelist of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, is also spending quality time with the officers this week.
Light-hearted moments happen as officers relax while off-duty.
In marriage workshops, couples explore topics like conflict, communication and healing.
Days spent in God's creation bring couples closer to each other and to God.
At the end of the week, couples have the opportunity to renew their marriage vows and rededicate their marriage to Christ. The work they put in during this retreat can help strengthen their relationships for years to come.
“The lasting impact is going to be what you guys did in your hearts. That’s what’s going to last.” Will Graham said at the first retreat in June.
These officers, including some injured in the line of duty, were specifically invited by the Rapid Response Team. Staff members are praying for every attendee by name, asking God to touch their hearts in a personal way.
Franklin Graham, ministry staff and couples celebrate the baptism of several individuals who decided to make a public declaration of their faith.
"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” —Matthew 28:19-20
Will Graham leads the group in prayer for those whose lives were impacted by God over the course of the week.
"I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth." (Psalm 121:1-2)
