This year's congregational retreat at Camp Homewood on Quadra Island was a wonderful experience for all!
We arrived on Friday, September 30th and moved into our rooms in the retreat centre. Most of us shared accommodations, giving us ample opportunities to get to know other members of Comox United better.
We all made name tags - our first creative endeavour of the weekend - and got a chance to chat. After a yummy meal cooked by the Homewood staff, we adjourned to the outdoor campfire for an entertaining - and often hilarious - singsong and marshmallow roast. Fiona had provided us with the incredients for s'mores - a treat from the distant past, for many of us!
After the campfire, it was time for a peaceful Taize service, lead by our own Rev. Wayne Hughes. A good wind-down in preparation for a good night's sleep.
Saturday morning breakfast was followed by a trip to the nearby spit to pick up garbage and generally clean up the beach. After another delicious lunch, one of the Homewood staff showed us how to make rockets out of pop bottles, sand, and of course duct tape.
Next, Wayne and Carol introduced us all to the concept and practice of Healing Touch. A very valuable and meaningful time, indeed. We may continue this program back at he church, throughout the year.
Hiking down to the waterfront, a number of us took out canoes and went for a paddle around the cove. Incredibly beautiful scenery - and spectacular weather all weekend. There was still time, before dinner, to set off the rockets - an impressive experience.
Another wonderful meal, then "Bob and Doug" MC'd a talent show. What incredible skills and talents we have here at Comox United - from comedy to poetry to music - we've got it all!
A second evening Taize service preceded another good sleep.
Sunday morning saw some packing up and a worship service lead by Margie (Wayne took the Saturday night ferry to Campbell River, in order to lead worship at Comox United on Sunday morning). Our last lunch was a bit subdued, as everyone started thinking about rejoining our "normal" busy lives. A number of us met up one last time, though, as we waited in line for the ferry. Did you know that there's a little kiosk right there at the ferry that sells ice cream cones?