Tuesday, May 2, 2023

Hello everyone – we had a fantastic Agnes Stock Weekend!  Over 200 people engaged throughout the weekend either in person or on line.  This is what someone from St. Andrew’s had to say:

“Congratulations on a great 'Dying to Know' weekend.  

The 'Planning Team's' attention to detail led to outstanding workshops/presentations that were delivered by experienced professionals from the community.  And all of the services and support that were required seemed to fall in place seamlessly.  What a tremendous legacy the 'Dying to Know' weekend leaves for St. Andrew's.

For me, a person who appreciates and loves music, it was a joy to have the weekend kick-off with a live concert by David Jensen & Friends and then numerous musical interludes by interesting, talented musicians.  Attendees didn't want to leave for a washroom break because they might miss some great music.

Thank you to you and all members of the Planning Team for creating such an interesting learning opportunity.”

 Rather than try to give an overview of the weekend, I thought I would share a poem that was displayed for people to see.  I think it is very powerful and share it with you hoping that it resonates with you as well.  It is called “Love Came First”

  Love Came First

You don’t have to move on after loss, but you must move with.  You must shake hands with grief, welcome her in, for she lives with you now.  Pull her a chair at the table and offer her comfort.  She is not the monster you first thought her to be.  She is love.  And she will walk with you now, stay with you now, peacefully.  If you let her.  And on the days when your anger is high, remember why she came, remember who she represents.  Remember.  Grief came to you my friend because love came first.  Love came first.

Donna Ashworth

A warm and heartfelt thank you to all who made this weekend possible.  A special thank you to the maintenance staff of the church who rose to the occasion and helped to create a strong sense of hospitality.   A special thank you as well to the team that created the weekend – Barb Molengraaf, Margie Warren, Andrew Hight, Lauren Wasyluk and Sheli O’Connor from Hospice Waterloo’

Take good care everyone and God bless

Marty