This event will be hosted by Spiritual Directions Centre during “National Victims of Crime Awareness Week” as part of the Centre’s commitment to healing through greater compassion for self and greater compassion for others as the foundation for sustainable community.

Speakers

Margot Van Sluytman is an awarding winning poet, author, publisher and international speaker, whose father was murdered when she was an adolescent.  Her books include, Sawbonna: I See You, her real life story from murder to meaning, and The Other Inmate:  Mediating Justice – Mediating Hope.  She has shared the stage with Sr. Helen Prejean, author of Dead Man Walking, who enthusiastically supports Margot’s vision.

Glen Flett, the man who committed the murder was in trouble with the law since he was a child, and spent 23 years behind bars.  He is now the founder and co-facilitator of L.I.N.C. (Long-term Inmates Now in the Community). Glen believes strongly in, and presents internationally on the concept of restorative justice with its empowerment of victims and ultimate goal of a safer community for all.

A 90 minute film, Sins of My Father, has been made about Sebastián Marroquín, the son of Pablo Escobar, the famed Colombian drug lord.  It tells the story of his journey to healing through reconciliation with the sons of a man whom his father killed.  The film will be shown the evening of April 26.

Registration
Conference including lunch and film April 26:   $260

Early bird rate before March 1:  $235

Group rate for 5 or more before March 1: $225

April 26, evening and film: $30

 Call 403-210-2802 to register or go to www.spiritualdirections.com/conference

The BC Victims of Homicide will be hosting support groups for those who have lost a loved one to homicide.

Upcoming support groups in Vancouver:
8-week Homicide Bereavement Support Group
(Saturday mornings starting Feb 4 – March 31, 2012)

Monthly Drop-In Support Group
(starting April, 2012)

These self-help, peer support, non-therapy groups are cost-free and facilitated by trained professionals. Saturday morning sessions will provide:

• A safe, non-judgmental, compassionate environment with time for sharing stories and insights.
• Essential grief and mourning survival tools.
• Practical support and information as well as valuable community connections.

No-cost although pre-registration is required as space is limited.  For inquiries and to register, please contact: Helpline: 604-738-9950 Toll Free: 1-877-779-2223 (BC)