Healing Through Storytelling: Veterans' Breakfast Group

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Christ Episcopal Church in Milford is inviting local veterans to gather for food and fellowship every third Thursday

MILFORD, Del. – There’s something quietly profound about sitting down with a fellow veteran and simply listening. No fanfare. No agenda. Just a conversation. For many, that act alone can be transformative—for both the veteran and the listener.

For those who served, telling their stories can be an important step in healing. Expression offers catharsis, helping veterans process memories of trauma, grief, pride, and identity that may otherwise be difficult to share outside a military context. Being heard without judgment affirms not only their service but their humanity. And in moments of conversation, isolation gives way to connection.

Listeners, too, gain something important. They are offered rare insights into sacrifice and resilience that extend beyond the battlefield—stories of leadership, humor, loss, and love. By bearing witness, they help preserve living history and become part of the legacy veterans carry forward.

Rev. Harry Hiltner is the pastor of Christ Episcopal Church in Milford and a Veteran of the US Navey.

Communities benefit when these conversations happen. They break down stereotypes, build intergenerational mentorship, and foster understanding that strengthens civic life. Whether it’s a chat over coffee at a Milford diner, a visit to the Delaware Veterans Home, or gatherings at community events, the power of storytelling among veterans is real.

Recognizing this, Christ Episcopal Church in Milford is inviting local veterans to gather for food, fellowship, and conversation every third Thursday of the month. The informal group has no agenda and no pressure—just an open invitation to connect with others who have served. Participants cover the cost of their own meal, but those who attend say the conversations are priceless.

“Veterans often feel a sense of disconnection after service,” said Rev. Harry Hiltner of Christ Church. “This is about restoring community, honoring their stories, and reminding them they are not alone.” Rev. Hiltner is also a veteran of the US. Navy.

Christ Episcopal Church, founded in 1704 and deeply rooted in Milford’s history, has long extended pastoral care to veterans and their families, including outreach to residents of the Delaware Veterans Home. The church’s emphasis on healing, thanksgiving, and service resonates closely with the values of those who served.

Veterans interested in joining the monthly gatherings can call Rev. Hiltner at 302-604-3011 for details on the location and upcoming dates.

Rev. Harry Hiltner is the pastor of Christ Episcopal Church in Milford and a Veteran of the US Navey.Editor’s Fact Box: Veterans Gatherings in Milford

What: Monthly fellowship for veterans – food, conversation, camaraderie

Who: Open to all veterans in the Milford area

When: Every third Thursday of the month

Where: Hosted by Christ Episcopal Church, Milford (call for location details)

Cost: Each participant covers their own meal

Contact: Rev. Harry Hiltner, 302-604-3011