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Clergy spouses gather for fun and fellowship at annual retreat

Written: 11/5/2009

The North Alabama Conference clergy spouses met at Camp Sumatanga in October for the 2009 Spouses Retreat. The annual event is a time of relaxation and fellowship for the spouses of United Methodist pastors.

Award-winning actress and storyteller Dolores Hydock provided the entertainment that brought much laughter as the spouses enjoyed their time together. Other highlights included book club discussion with Edwina Styes; career networking with Sandy Reynolds; facials with Alicia Crew; needle craft with Beth Holt; floral arranging with Wendy Boggan and Paula Smith; bead working with Adlene Kufarimai; and yoga with Mandy Baker. Door prizes and gift bags were prepared by Sandy Reynolds and Mary Morgan for the spouses to enjoy.

Participants also experienced a time of relaxation, encompassed by prayerful spirit and meaningful worship. Rev. Bill Gandy, Mountain Lakes District Superintendent, led the celebration of communion.

Mrs. Patsy Willimon described the retreat as time away, a wonderful time of laughter, bonfire fellowship and joy of seeing many different generations gathered together. Bishop Willimon dropped in to greet attendees.

Babies First, a ministry of the United Methodist Children’s Home, was recipient of gifts brought to the retreat, hosted this year by the Southeast District. Jennie Stryker led the planning team and Marcia Steedman served as registrar. The Southwest District will host the next Clergy Spouse Retreat, scheduled for October 15-16, 2010. Organizers hope to see even more spouses next year.