Women's Fall Retreat - Fill my Cup Lord (Oct 28-30 2005)

by Diane Marks

With the theme 'Fill My Cup, Lord' how could we not be filled to the top and overflowing with blessings? Our youngest participant was Kaitlyn 4 months new, Carrie & Sam represented the teenagers and the rest of us ranged from 30's through 80's; aged to perfection. Forty-seven women from Port McNeill, Ucluelet, Port Alberni, Campbell River, Parksville, Duncan, Cobble Hill and Victoria, came to hear Sarah Donnelly's message. A cup symbolized our inner spiritual journey & each woman received a cup filled with treats & wrapped in cellophane. Sarah likened each one of us, at various times in our lives, to that of a broken or chipped cup. Sometimes our life feels empty, sometimes full, broken and, of course, blessed.

Rev. Elizabeth Fussell led our prayers and Holy Communion (reserved Sacrament) on Sunday morning. Music leader, Diane Bell, singer and guitarist, had us singing throughout the weekend. Saturday afternoon was free time with options of a Camp walk with Diane Bell, intro to meditation by Elizabeth Fussell, Teddy Bear 101 by Dianne Marks or quiet. We finished the evening in our pjs, munching popcorn & chocolates and enjoying 'Company of Strangers'. Elvis and his date paid us a very surprise visit! (Otherwise known as Nonah Pite and Doreen Hogben.)

Thanks to the women representing 16 churches on Vancouver Island, to Colleen and John, Camp's new catering staff, and to the Committee who put on the weekend. These weekends only happen when a dedicated group of people take charge, have faith, and work diligently, so these precious times together with Christian women, may take place. Camp Columbia, with its magnificent Thetis Island setting, is truly a precious jewel in this Diocese.

Mark your calendars for the Spring Women's weekend - April 21-23, 2006. with the Sisters of St. John and Sister Doreen's leadership. Check your church bulletin, Synod mail out and Camp Columbia's web for more details.