From May 3-5 last year, I attended a retreat with AWARE Peterborough for women of all denominations and ages. This annual retreat is a weekend of spiritual refreshment and challenge. It includes an excellent speaker, small group discussions, worshipful music, fun and fellowship or the blissful solitude of sitting by the lake listening to the loons.
This was my first visit, although a number of women from my parish’s Anglican Church Women group have attended in past years. Helen Lee from Roseneath was most willing to take me in her car. She and I attended a preparatory meeting one Saturday in March.
Why was I choosing to spend the weekend now? After having been in and out of church throughout my life, I joined Christ Church when we moved to Campbellford, where I have now worshipped for some years. But I find myself constantly questioning. This weekend was a new experience, one where I might find some answers.
What did I find? Comfortable accommodation by Buckhorn Lake, superb eats at all stages throughout the day, but above all such a wonderful welcome from everyone. The approximately 120 guests, along with all the staff, were so accepting, friendly and helpful, giving the feeling of being clothed in warmth.
The chosen theme was “God lights a fire in our heart.” Laurie Robertson, the keynote speaker, and the Rev. Sharon Sangster, the chaplain, together with women of the planning committee, were always available to show understanding and encouragement when needed.
Ms. Robertson gave four well-constructed talks relating to different aspects of the theme. Immediately afterwards, we divided into our designated small discussion groups to chat, talk and explore the ideas further. During the first of these, we were asked to consider the four stages of fire: flickering, flare, flame, embers. Might we care to identify our beliefs and how we share them with one or more stages of fire? Each of the highly focused talks provided much thought for animated discussion in the ensuing small group meeting.
There were two lovely services. The first was a late afternoon Taizé service by candlelight in the Rustic Chapel. Taizé prayer is a simple, meditative form of worship, calling all to dwell deeply in Christ’s presence around and within us. It was an evening prayer for all Christian faiths. The final Eucharist provided a wonderful ending to the weekend.
The nearly two days were packed with lovely music, hobby time, conversation time or just time out to sit, contemplate and soak in the feel of the lake. Of course, it was appreciated if you participated fully, but no one was judgmental if you didn’t.
In any gathering there are probably as many shades of belief as people in the room, but here many women openly demonstrated the joy they found in their relationship with God.
Did I find answers? Maybe some, but very many more searching questions. Would I come again? Most certainly yes.
AWARE Peterborough is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a retreat on the first weekend in May. Learn more at www.awarepeterborough.com.
