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Loretto Maryholme, the winter wonders
- 7 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
What a magical Winter Wonderland we enjoyed in this deep winter season! Storms and vast heaps of snow did not deter our brave guests from travelling to receive rest, serenity, and yummy food over several events. Our Advent Retreat once again attracted women of various faiths. See their comments below. Over 30 people encircled the Winter Solstice fire and traipsed through the deep snow to contemplate the Creator’s handiwork at sunset; after a warming soup supper, we rounded out the evening reciting poetry ‘round the fireplace’. An 8-Day Silent Retreat occurred right off the hop in January; our half-price incentive for first-timers to a silent retreat garnered some new registrations. Their gratitude abounded…
"It was wonderful to be fed spiritually and physically - I am grateful."
"I came for rest and this sacred place allowed my weary soul to receive it. Thank you, thank you! Shout-outs to Yvonne – you opened my eyes and heart to another perspective on Mary. Thank you for that. And of course, the food, books, poetry, and thoughts shared leave my heart cozy and warm."
"I loved how the themes of winter and Advent were woven together seamlessly, and so beautifully.
The Visio Divina was a beautiful way to begin. The reflection questions and poems supported my own spiritual journey, giving it focus and direction. Maryholme in winter is as beautiful as it is in the other three seasons."
Our 4-day Women’s Winter Weekend Retreat became an annual highlight. Retreatants were additionally blessed by a new special feature: a Sound Journey by local healer and artist Nadine Crescenzi. What a gift it was to sink into a sound bath for deep relaxation and restoration of the soul in the ambience of Edgar House in wintertime. Truly, it was remarkable to see the peace and joy it instilled in everyone. We definitely had Nadine back for more.
“Silence was more comfortable than I thought it would be. The retreat showed me that silence, peace, and beauty are always available.”
“This is where I come to spend deep time with God… My connection to God is stronger because of LMH – it has made a mountain of difference in my spiritual life.”
The winterization and upgrade of McMahon Cabin received its final touches. We welcomed year-round bookings and were so grateful. The cabin was as bright and cozy as ever. It was hard to rate which was the best of the fine new features: lovely vaulted ceiling that gave a sense of spaciousness and more light; newly combined washroom/shower room; kitchenette moved to allow for a sliding glass door that also brought more light… and view. Watch for photos in our next installment.
We honoured Loretto Maryholme’s 25th anniversary in several ways over the year. Most notable was a grand celebration on June 6. We were thrilled that Diana Beresford-Kroeger warmly accepted our invitation to be the keynote speaker. She also selected the anniversary tree we would plant. A fine chef was already planning the lunch menu. There were children’s activities; an auction; and we bookended the day with prayer—an opening blessing ceremony, and closing with a Tai Chi session. We looked forward to hosting many of you on June 6. The office in Toronto coordinated car pools and tickets for the GTA Sisters. Ticket sales were available online at www.lorettomaryholme.ca.
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