KINGSTON – A small group at St. Mary Magdalene, Picton in the Diocese of Ontario thought it would be fun to create some social events outside the church where parishioners and friends could enjoy each other’s company and discover more of what Prince Edward County and surrounding area had to offer.
Inspired by a parishioner who mentioned, “You don’t get a chance to go out to many places when you live alone,” the plan was to hold quarterly gatherings based around a meal. “We came up with a catchy name and a snazzy logo, but we were so excited that we probably moved too quickly, because our first outing had only three parishioners join us at the North Docks restaurant,” said an organizer.
Word spread, however, and the following three outings were well attended. Eighteen people gathered at the Saylor House Cafe in Bloomfield, 22 met at the O’Connor House English Tea Room in Deseronto, which was followed by a visit to an adjoining antique shop, and 26 attended a lunch at the Inn at the Lake on the Mountain on the Bay of Quinte.
“We make sure that anyone who needs a ride gets one, and we’re able to accommodate people with walkers or wheelchairs,” said the organizer. “Everyone is welcome to bring friends along, too.”
Dialogue
