These are just some of the women who attended our wonderful weekend of relaxation, worship, discussion, art, yoga and fellowship at Canterbury Hills in October. What at great location and fantastic company!



In a beautiful, natural space, an environmental theme seemed fitting for St. James' third annual Women's Retreat.

More than 20 women participated in the church's retreat from June 1-3rd at Five Oaks Centre in Paris, Ontario offering attendees a chance to walk among the lush gardens, meditate by the Grand River and enjoy an outdoor, evening bonfire.

The theme of the weekend getaway was Consider the Lilies of the Field, based on an essay by Susan McFague. With this environmental theme in mind we focused on the responsibilities we have to creation and its stewardship. Led by Rev. Gerry Adam, 23 women participated in three sessions where discussions and activities centred on how we view our co-existence with the planet.

We engaged in some social time too, enjoying meals together (with no cooking or cleaning involved), some lovely liturgy, including a late night Eucharist with Rev. Mona Goulette, hiking and lots of talking and quiet reflective time as well.

In a very special and sacred setting we explored our connection with and our response to nature and how we can view it with a 'loving eye,' questioning what we now do at St. James that supports this practice and what more we can do. We look forward to forming an environmental group at St James, building on the momentum gathered during our days together. The Diocese has recently established an EnviroAction Committee and we are excited about what opportunities lie ahead for all of us to practice our relationship with the planet with a loving eye.

It was truly a blessing to be together as sisters, reflecting on our relationship with Christ, with one another, our community and our world. We are each called upon to minister in our own ways with our own gifts. Thank you all for a wonderful weekend.