Mission

• CREDO is dedicated to supporting the regional commander through a range of ministries and training initiatives aimed at enhancing individual, relational, and professional readiness among service members.

• The organization places a strong emphasis on spirituality and resilience, advocating for personal accountability, effective decision-making, and the utilization of community resources.

• At its core, CREDO strives to foster resilience within the Fleet, Fighter, and Family by promoting personal growth, nurturing relationships, and encouraging spiritual development.

History

• Established in 1971 as the Chaplains Response to the Emerging Drug Order, CREDO was initiated to combat the increasing issues of drug abuse among Vietnam veterans returning home from combat.

• In 1977, the program was rebranded as the Chaplains Religious Enrichment Development Operation to better represent the evolution of its retreat ministry program. Following this, the Personal Growth Retreat (PGR) transitioned to the Personal Resilience Retreat (PRR) in 2013, reflecting the contemporary needs for personal growth and resilience.

• Today, CREDO continues to provide essential tools aimed at enhancing spiritual well-being and building personal resilience, addressing the unique challenges faced by military personnel and their families.

CNREURAFCENT CREDO Location

• CREDO is located on the 1st floor in Building 445 Across from the Gym and right above the Community Ban on Capodichino at NSA NAPLES ITALY

Programs and Offerings

• CREDO provides an array of retreats, workshops, and seminars specifically designed to assist service members and their families in thriving amidst the challenges associated with military life.

• CREDO can build custom workshops that draw from our CORE Programs to meet unit needs.

• Participants can look forward to opportunities for significant personal and spiritual development, the strengthening of interpersonal relationships, the enhancement of communication skills, and engaging in enjoyable activities.

• For retreats:  meals, accommodation, and transportation are all provided at no cost to active-duty service members and their immediate family members, ensuring accessibility for all.

Curricula

1. Leadership Programs:

• Arbinger: Move beyond self-focus and embrace an outward mindset. This approach backed by 45 years of research empowers individuals, teams, and organizations to inspire trust, leading to collaboration and increased productivity.  Arbinger focuses on mindset change, promoting a shift from self-centered thinking to an outward mindset. This approach helps individuals and organizations enhance collaboration and accountability. It emphasizes understanding others' perspectives to foster better relationships and teamwork.

 

• Strengths Deployment Inventory: This tool assesses interpersonal conflict styles and helps individuals understand their own strengths and the strengths of others. It promotes effective communication and collaboration by highlighting how different styles can impact relationships. Users can leverage their strengths to improve teamwork and resolve conflicts more constructively.

 

• Clifton Strengths: Developed by Gallup, Clifton Strengths identifies individual talents and strengths through a series of assessments. It encourages individuals to focus on what they do best rather than trying to improve weaknesses. This strengths-based approach enhances personal and professional development by aligning tasks with innate abilities.

 

• ARSENAL (coming soon in 2025): ARSENAL is a program designed to help individuals recognize stress and develop healthy coping mechanisms. It aims to build personal resilience through understanding stress triggers and effective management strategies. The program will last 3.5 hours and will offer practical tools for improving emotional well-being.  This program workshop is an acronym for seven best practices of excellence that help us manage stress and at the same time empower individual well-being, relational harmony, and unit cohesion.

 

• Atomic Habits: This concept focuses on the power of small, incremental changes in behavior to achieve significant results over time. It emphasizes the importance of building good habits and breaking bad ones through a clear framework. The approach is actionable, making it easier for individuals to implement lasting change in their lives.

               

2.  Personal Resiliency:

Personal resiliency refers to an individual's ability to bounce back from adversity and adapt to challenges. It involves developing mental and emotional strength to cope with stress and setbacks. Building personal resiliency can lead to improved well-being and greater success in both personal and professional endeavors.  Unleash your full potential through proven frameworks.  Develop essential skills in communication, relationships, and resilience. Engage in interactive activities and diverse learning modalities for a truly transformative experience.

• Got Your Back: This program emphasizes the importance of supportive relationships and community in personal and professional settings. It encourages individuals to build trust and offer support to one another. The focus is on creating a culture of collaboration and mutual assistance.

 

• Four Lenses (coming soon): Four Lenses is a framework for understanding personality differences and enhancing communication. It categorizes individuals into four distinct personality types, helping teams appreciate diverse perspectives. This program aims to improve interpersonal relationships and teamwork through better understanding.

 

• Time Management: Time management involves techniques and strategies for effectively organizing and prioritizing tasks. It helps individuals maximize productivity and reduce stress by making the best use of available time. Good time management skills lead to improved efficiency and a better balance between work and personal life.

 

• Conflict Resolution: This refers to the process of resolving disagreements and disputes in a constructive manner. Effective conflict resolution skills involve active listening, empathy, and problem-solving techniques. The goal is to reach a mutually beneficial outcome while maintaining positive relationships.

 

• MBTI: The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is a personality assessment tool that categorizes individuals into 16 distinct personality types based on preferences in four pairs of opposites. It helps people understand their own behaviors and those of others, fostering better communication and teamwork. MBTI is often used in career counseling and personal development.

 

• Personality Color Chart: This tool categorizes personality traits into four colors, each representing different characteristics and behaviors. It provides insights into how individuals interact with others and their work styles. Understanding these traits can enhance communication and collaboration in teams.

               

3.  Relationships:

This encompasses the dynamics and interactions between individuals, including personal, professional, and social relationships. Strong relationships are built on trust, communication, and mutual respect. Fostering healthy relationships leads to increased fulfillment and support in various aspects of life.
               

• Gottman: The Gottman Method is a research-based approach to improving relationships, particularly romantic partnerships. It emphasizes building emotional intimacy, effective communication, and conflict resolution skills. The method provides practical tools to strengthen relationships and enhance connection.  Leverage over 50 years of research-based practices to improve your relationship. Learn effective communication techniques to foster a stronger, more fulfilling partnership.

 

• PREP: The Prevention and Relationship Enhancement Program (PREP) focuses on helping couples develop skills for healthy relationships. It teaches communication techniques, conflict resolution strategies, and ways to deepen emotional intimacy. PREP aims to reduce relationship distress and promote lasting partnerships.  Learn essential skills to enhance your relationship with your spouse. Tools that will help you gain more emotional understanding and behaviors that will nurture and sustain your healthy relationship.

 

• Five Love Languages:  This concept identifies five distinct ways individuals express and receive love: Words of Affirmation, Acts of Service, Receiving Gifts, Quality Time, and Physical Touch. Understanding one's love language can enhance communication and connection in relationships. It encourages individuals to express love in ways that resonate with their partners, fostering deeper emotional bonds.

               

4.  Prevention Programs:

• LivingWorks ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training): A comprehensive two-day workshop designed for suicide first-aid intervention.  Prepare individuals aged 16 and older in intervention skills.  Suicide First Aid. Learn to recognize signs of suicide risk and intervene with life-saving techniques. Develop safety plans to support individuals in crisis.

• The primary goal is to equip attendees with the skills necessary to recognize various signs that may indicate someone is at risk of suicide.

• Participants learn to employ practical intervention techniques that help individuals feel less suicidal and connect them with the appropriate resources for support.

• The program fosters a community of trained individuals committed to providing assistance and intervention in critical situations.

• Increased Awareness: Participants develop a deeper understanding of mental health challenges, the complexities surrounding suicidal ideation, and the importance of intervention.

• Skill Development: Attendees acquire practical skills that empower them to assist individuals in crisis effectively and compassionately.

• Community Impact: By cultivating a culture of mental health awareness and support, trained individuals contribute to fostering safer environments where individuals feel encouraged to seek help.

•  LivingWorks safeTALK:  safeTALK is a brief, half-day training program designed to prepare individuals aged 15 and older to recognize and respond effectively to someone who may be contemplating suicide.  Learn to identify people at risk of suicide and connect them to life-saving resources. This interactive workshop empowers you to make a difference.

• The program aims to train participants to identify the signs of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in others.

• It encourages proactive engagement, enabling participants to connect individuals at risk with appropriate support services.

• Enhanced Awareness: Participants become more attuned to the signs that someone may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, empowering them to act when necessary.

• Community Support: Individuals are encouraged to play an active role in suicide prevention efforts, fostering a supportive atmosphere for those in need.

• Foundation for Further Training: safeTALK serves as an introduction to more extensive training programs like ASIST, promoting continued learning in suicide intervention.

               

CREDO Retreats

Personal Resiliency Retreat (PRR):

• Objective: To promote holistic personal growth across psychological, emotional, and spiritual dimensions.

• Key Features: Participants engage in exploring values and beliefs that influence their ethical decision-making, alongside opportunities for personal reflection and resilience-building activities.               

Women’s Resiliency Retreat (Active Duty and Reservist only):

• Objective: To impart lifelong lessons in resilience, leadership, and teamwork specifically tailored for women.

• Key Features: The retreat features interactive sessions designed to help participants discover their inner strength and resilience, complemented by empowering activities that promote self-care and mutual support.              

Family Enrichment Retreat:

• Objective: To enhance family unity and resilience through shared experiences and activities.

• Key Features: Participants engage in activities aimed at strengthening family bonds while emphasizing the significance of play and adventure in nurturing family relationships.               

Marriage Enrichment Retreat:

• Objective: To equip married couples with essential skills for improving their relationships.

• Key Features: The retreat offers training focused on communication, emotional expression, and healthy conflict resolution, along with opportunities for couples to practice their skills in a supportive environment.

   To sign up for retreats and workshops, click here.

PHONE DIRECTORY

• Naples, Italy

  • DSN: 626-5255

  • Commercial: 39-081-568-5255

• ​Sigonella

  • NAS1

    • DSN: 624-3975

    • Commercial: 39-095-56-3975

  • NAS2

    • DSN: 624-2382

    • Commercial: 39-095-86-2382

•  Souda Bay, Greece

  • DSN: 314-266-1192 / 1204

  • Commercial: 30-282-102-1192 / 1204

•  Rota, Spain

  • DSN: 314-727-2161

  • Commercial: 956-82-2161

•  Bahrain

  • DSN: 318-439-6394

  • ​Commercial: 011-9731785-6394

•  Djibouti

  • DSN: 311-824-4800 / 2347 / 2082

   Visit us on Facebook.
   
SIGONELLA: 

• Personal Resiliency Retreat

  • Jan 10-12 PRR

  • ​Jul 18-20 PRR

• Marriage Enrichment Retreat

  • Feb 28 - March 2 MER

  • Jun 13-15 MER​

• Family Enrichment Retreat

  • Apr 11-13 FER

  • ​Sep 12-14 FER

 
NAPLES:

• Personal Resiliency Retreat

  • May 14-16

• Marriage Enrichment Retreat

  • Feb 28- Mar 2

  • Jul 23-25

• Family Enrichment Retreat

  • ​Apr 25-27

  • Sep 19-21

• Women’s Resiliency Retreat​

  • ​Mar 5-7

 
ROTA:

• Personal Resiliency Retreat

  • 14-16 March

  • 9-11 May

• Marriage Enrichment Retreat

  • 14-16 February

  • 25-27 July

• Family Enrichment Retreat

  • 27-29 June

  • 12-14 September

 
Bahrain:

• Personal Resiliency Retreat

  • 20-22 February

  • 28-30 August

• Marriage Enrichment Retreat

  • 29-33 May

  • 24-26 July

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 
What is CREDO?

- CREDO stands for Chaplains Religious Enrichment Development Operation.
- It focuses on personal and relational reflection, growth, and spiritual enrichment.
- CREDO follows OPNAVINST 1738 1B guidelines.
- It is recognized as a US Navy military training event.

 
What is CREDO's history?

- CREDO was introduced in 1971 as an initiative to combat drug use.
- It has evolved to promote spiritual growth and strengthen relationships within the military.
- The program was conceived by CAPT Don Harris, CHC, USN (Ret), to address cultural challenges.

 
Who is eligible to participate?

- Active duty service members and reservists on active duty, along with their immediate family members, can attend EURAFCENT retreats and workshops at no cost.
- Immediate family members include spouses and dependent children as defined in U.S.C. Section 1072.
- Participation is authorized in accordance with U.S.C. Section 1789.

 
Can civilians attend?

- Spouses who are dependents and civilian workers/contractors may attend as dependents.
- U.S. government employees and contractors can join workshops and retreats but must cover their own expenses, including room, food, and transportation.
- Civilians are not authorized to use contracted spaces, as this could incur additional charges.
- Civilians cannot ride the bus to the retreat.

 
Can children attend?

- Immediate family members of service members are welcome at the Family Enrichment Retreat.
- Childcare services are not provided at any retreats or workshops.
- Parents are responsible for their children's care during the Family Enrichment Retreat.
- Nursing mothers may bring their babies to any of the retreats.

 
Are animals allowed at CREDO retreats?

- Animals are not permitted at CREDO retreats due to potential allergies, damage to venues, and lack of pet care facilities.

 
Can spouses/partners attend a Personal Resiliency Retreat?

- The Personal Resiliency Retreat is designed for individual participants seeking personal growth, thus married couples cannot attend together.

 
Can my children stay with us at the hotel, during a Marriage Enrichment Retreat?

- Retreats are tailored for authorized participants and their legally married spouses.
- No childcare services are provided, and children are not allowed to attend, except for nursing infants.
- This retreat offers couples a chance to focus on maintaining a healthy marriage.

 
What are the check-in requirements for retreats?

- Participants must provide their passport and a photocopy of its "face" page for check-in.
- Hotels are required by law to provide guest information to the local police.

 
Are there additional charges?

- Participants are responsible for any incidentals incurred during their stay, such as mini-bar, spa, or room service fees, which must be settled before checking out.

 
What about transportation?

- CREDO provides bus transportation to authorized participants at no cost.
- If participants choose to use their own vehicles, they must cover their own gas, tolls, and parking fees.

 
What is the media policy?

- By signing the registration form, participants grant CNREURAFCENT CREDO permission to use images and media of themselves and their dependents attending the retreat.
- This consent applies to various forms of media without compensation.

 
What is the cancellation policy?

- Participants should notify CREDO in advance if they cannot attend at CREDO@EU.NAVY.MIL
- Last-minute cancellations impact other participants and the program.

 
Is participation mandatory?

- 100% participation is expected in all classes, meals, and overnight lodging during the retreat.
- Participants understand that these activities are their appointed place of duty.

 
Can participants leave the venue?

- Participants should not leave the retreat venue without express permission from CREDO staff.

 
What is the registration process?

- Registrations are managed at the CREDO Regional office in Naples, Italy.
- Participants must complete a registration form and await confirmation.

 
Is there flexibility during the retreat?

- Participants have some flexibility outside of scheduled events but must adhere to UCMJ regulations and refrain from alcohol abuse.
- Departing from the venue without permission is strongly discouraged, and alcohol is prohibited at CLDJ retreats.

 
What happens after submitting the registration?

- Upon completion of the registration form, participants will receive a confirmation email.
- A welcome letter with more information will be emailed two weeks before the retreat, if contact information is provided.
- Participants should save the date and secure childcare early if needed.

 
Can my dependent (e.g., mother) attend?

- A service member’s dependents, such as a mother, can attend the retreat but will be responsible for their own expenses, similar to civilians and contractors.

 
Can NATO members attend?

- NATO members cannot attend retreats but are welcome to participate in CREDO Core+ programs, covering their own food and transportation costs.

 
Can retirees and veterans attend?

- CREDO instructions and funding do not allow veterans and retirees to attend retreats.

 
Will I receive credit for LivingWorks training?

- Yes, participants will receive a signed certificate upon successful completion of the training objectives.