As a component of MAP (Ministry Assessment Process), three Surrey parishes: St. Michael’s, The Anglican Church of the Epiphany and St. Helen’s gathered for the first Tri-Parish retreat. The event was held at St. Michael’s on September 28th from 10 am to 2 pm.
Leading up to this event, there were a couple meetings that took place attended by various members of the three parishes. These meetings were held in order to plan for the Tri-Parish retreat. The retreat was a great opportunity for working together as Churches with a vision of sharing resources and re-connecting to each other. The theme of the retreat was “Quiet out of Chaos.”
The day consisted of: Guided Meditations, Quiet Times, Group Meditations, Hymn Signing and Praying. Thanks to Father Louie from St. Michael’s and Archdeacon Stephen Rowe from Epiphany for leading the retreat and special thanks to Andy Whitmore from St. Michael’s for providing the enjoyable music. Another huge thanks to Jeddy James warden of St. Michael’s for providing an assortment of Indian delicacies to compliment the lunch.During the retreat each participant had the option of using different quiet rooms provided by St. Michael’s. There was also an opportunity for participants to share their reflections with the larger group. Throughout the entire retreat there was an atmosphere openness and cooperation. All those in attendance left the retreat feeling recharged and uplifted.
Thanks again to everyone who participated, and thanks to those who offered their services to help out with the retreat.Images: Top, lunchtime in the Parish Hall of St. Michael’s, Surrey. Middle right and homepage, Andy Whitmore of St. Michael’s leads the music in worship