In October I was so very blessed to be among a team of 19 volunteers who provided a 3 day retreat of respite, love and spiritual inspiration and support for individuals facing a serious illness and their caregivers. This retreat has been offered for about 40 years in my diocese of Arlington, VA. It was started by two women who had made a Cursillo Weekend and later sought the help of a team of nurses, doctors, priests and other volunteers to make it accessible for those with health challenges.
What an amazing experience we all had! I was so blessed to be able to spend a weekend with this beautiful group of men and women journeying together in God’s loving embrace. I was so happy to be able to extend an opportunity for all our retreatants and volunteers to an afternoon of painting and prayer. The theme that God placed on my heart was Psalm 23 “The Lord is my Shepherd”. It was 90 minutes that included singing, prayer and painting the cover of a prayer and gratitude journal.
I want to give a big thank you to Catholic Charities for underwriting the cost of the whole retreat and all the supplies needed for this workshop, and to all those who were so brave to paint with me! Here’s to the gifts of love, faith, and creativity explored together!
On June 1st we had the great joy of showcasing the beautiful artists we get to work with at Meadow Glen Assisted Living. Residents and visitors enjoyed our slideshow and exhibit featuring a sampling of the hundreds of paintings Meadow Glen’s residents have created in the nearly four years they’ve had me coming there. As a special added treat, attendees were given an opportunity to experience for themselves just how easy and enjoyable it is to follow our guided painting process! Two beautiful collaborative beach paintings were created that night by eight brave residents, families, staff and visitors! 