By: Jay Feldman

In the United States, research suggests nearly 20 veterans die by suicide each day, highlighting the mental health crisis facing those who’ve served our country. Mark Colville, a veteran and ordained Independent Catholic priest, has channeled his own painful experiences into a potential lifeline for others through his nonprofit, Traveling Light Ministries. His sanctuary aims to provide what many desperately seek but rarely find: genuine compassion, dignity, and belonging.

Mark’s evolution from soldier to healer illustrates how personal struggles can inspire a powerful mission. “At Traveling Light Ministries, we strive to create a safe place for the overlooked—to offer hope that healing is possible, that their story matters, and that they are never too far from love,” Mark shares, his voice carrying the weight of someone who’s walked through darkness and found his way back.

The Journey from Soldier to Healer

Mark’s military career instilled discipline and purpose, but like many veterans, he returned home carrying invisible wounds. The transition to civilian life proved challenging—the structure disappeared, the camaraderie vanished, and the psychological impact of service lingered in ways he hadn’t anticipated.

During his darkest moments, Mark discovered that, for him, healing didn’t come from pushing away pain but from embracing a new path forward. Spirituality became his anchor, not as an escape but as a framework for processing trauma and finding meaning. His personal transformation wasn’t solely about survival—it also sparked a calling to create spaces where others could begin their own healing journeys.

Becoming an Independent Catholic priest felt less like a career pivot and more like a vocation aligned with his purpose: serving those who feel unseen.

Founding Traveling Light Ministries

In 2024, with little more than conviction and compassion, Mark established Traveling Light Ministries. Unlike traditional religious organizations, his nonprofit operates on a radical philosophy of inclusion, creating sacred space for people often pushed to society’s margins.

“We aim to go beyond just talking about acceptance,” Mark explains. “Our focus is on meeting people exactly where they are.”

The ministry offers what it describes as a holistic approach to healing: grief support groups where tears are welcomed, not hushed; yoga practices that reconnect mind and body; and spiritual guidance that never demands conformity. These services are available throughout the greater Savannah area, both online and in person, reaching those who might otherwise remain isolated in their suffering.

Serving the Overlooked

The ministry’s doors open widest for those who’ve felt the sting of rejection elsewhere: veterans struggling with reintegration, LGBTQ+ individuals alienated from faith communities, people drowning in grief, and spiritual seekers who no longer fit neatly into traditional religious boxes.

Available data suggests a troubling reality for these groups when support is lacking. LGBTQ+ youth report suicide attempts at nearly five times the rate of their heterosexual peers. Veterans face ongoing mental health challenges long after leaving active duty.

“When someone walks through our door, they’re not a statistic or a problem to be fixed,” Mark insists. “They’re a whole person with a story that deserves to be heard.”

This philosophy shapes the ministry’s approach to care. In grief support groups, participants often find rare permission to express raw emotion without judgment. A grieving mother who joined one such group shared, “For months, people told me to ‘stay strong’ or ‘move on.’ Here, I felt seen and understood. It was a safe space to share my pain without being rushed through it.”

The Impact of Traveling Light Ministries

The effects of Mark’s work appear to extend beyond individual healing sessions. Veterans who once isolated themselves now volunteer to help newcomers. LGBTQ+ individuals who felt spiritually homeless have reported finding community. People processing grief often discover they aren’t alone in their darkest hours.

The organization also offers an example of how spiritual care can evolve to meet contemporary needs. In an era when many traditional religious institutions report declining attendance, Mark’s ministry has found resonance by focusing on healing rather than doctrine, connection rather than conversion.

Summary

Mark Colville’s journey from military service to spiritual healing reflects the resilience of the human spirit. Through Traveling Light Ministries, he’s created more than just a nonprofit—he’s built a sanctuary where the overlooked can feel embraced.

“The work isn’t always easy,” Mark admits, “but seeing someone reclaim their sense of worth after society has told them they don’t matter—there’s nothing more rewarding than that.”

In a world increasingly divided by ideology and identity, spaces like Traveling Light Ministries may serve as a reminder of our shared humanity and the healing power of compassionate community. They show that belonging isn’t about fitting in but about being accepted exactly as you are.

For those interested in supporting this work, visit travelinglightmin.org to learn about volunteer opportunities, donation options, or simply to spread awareness about this unique ministry.

Actionable Takeaways

For entrepreneurs and community leaders, Mark’s work offers insights: identify who’s being overlooked in your field, then build services specifically addressing their unmet needs. Meaningful innovations often emerge from personal experience combined with deep listening to marginalized voices.

For individuals navigating their own healing journeys, consider Mark’s core message: you are never too broken, too different, or too far gone to find community. Healing often happens in connection, not isolation. Your story matters, and sharing it could be a step toward transformation.

Disclaimer: The content of this article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, including thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please seek immediate assistance from a qualified healthcare provider or contact a helpline. Always consult with a mental health professional before making any decisions regarding your health or well-being.

Published by Jeremy S.