WOAM Retreat

Study, Laughter, Worship and Eucharist...

We came from five different parishes and four separate states, but we had one goal...to utilize every minute of our three days together. For many of us there were friendships to renew, spending time with friends from previous retreats, learning even more about each other. For all of us there were new friends to meet and with which to share our stories. Icebreakers throughout the weekend unearthed fun facts about each one of us.

The first Loving Well session, “Joy”, began Thursday night. Those who hadn’t experienced a Beth Moore video study before were surprised by her delightful sense of humor. We all found this study to be insightful and challenging. After each segment, we met in small groups for further study, encouraging one another.

Whether in the hotel’s hot tub, gabbing and snacking in a friend’s room, or sharing a meal at one of the local restaurants, laughter was an essential ingredient. The Friday night pajama and pizza party was especially fun.
Hallie Smith put us all to shame with her ability to Name That Love Song. Left Center Right, a simple party game, was modified to be an interactive and entertaining method for receiving our mission mites.

As we brought our prayers together in Morning Prayer and Compline we were reminded that we are many members, but one Body in Christ. Our retreat, begun in worship, culminated in Holy Eucharist Saturday morning. Fr. Francis Wardega bestowed a benediction upon us as we prepared to journey home.

And One More Thing...

Each year while driving away from the latest retreat, my heart is full, and I can’t help thinking that this was the best one yet. This year was no different, but I think it REALLY WAS the best one yet. Our hearts were challenged to know God’s perfect love for us, and then to love those around us in the same way.

Also, as I am driving away each year, I think of all the things I should have said and didn’t. So, let me take this opportunity to give proper thanks to several of you. Thank you, Julie, for preparing the necessary things to enhance our worship. Thank you, Kristen and Elizabeth, for sharing your gifts of music. Fr. Francis, you always know how to be with us, but not so that we notice. Thank you for tying everything together for us with your words and the celebration of the Eucharist. Many thanks to Trisha, Hallie, Patty, Anna and Kristen, who helped to put everything together and made my job so much easier. Thank you all.

I also want to thank all of you who attended this retreat for loving me, and
allowing me to love you back. Each of you is special to God, and so very special
to me. I can’t wait to share with you again next year.
Jan