Diaconal Gatherings

Diaconal Gatherings

One of the joys of being on the road has been the opportunity to meet with recent grads and re-new connections. A deep sense of history and pride is shared by our grads; having occasions to gather provides a deepened community of support and nurture.

The chance arose to gather with two groups of CCS folks while I was in Ontario. In Stratford, Kathy Douglas hosted a meal at Central United Church. Nancy Wetselaar (1979 grad, recently retired!), Valerie Pitt (grad 2006), Elaine Graham (grad 2003), Michelle Owens (grad 2007), Carey Wagner (grad 2011), Joan Golden (grad 2005) and Richard Golden (LDM 2000). Amidst all the laughter, a lot of the conversation involved serious consideration of personal and professional issues.

Diaconal gathering at Stratford: Carey Wagner, Michelle Owens, Nancy Wetslaar, Valerie Pitt, Joan Golden, Richard Golden, Kathy Douglas, Elaine Graham

In Kitchener, Marilyn Shaw (grad 2008) organized an outing attended by Ellen Baynton-Walker (current student), Joan Tuchlinsky (grad 2000), Deb Laforet (grad 2007), June Anderson (grad 1993, Mary Elliott (grad 2011), Judy Astley (grad 1990), Pam Byers (grad 2007). Sometimes it takes some effort to clear the calendar to make time for relationships but in the end one is rewarded with a rich sense of connection and community.

Diaconal gathering in Kitchner: Pam Byers, June Anderson, Judy Astley, Mary Elliott, Marilyn Shaw, Joan Tuchlinsky, in front Deb Laforet and Ellen Baynton-Walker