This is a report from the New Brunswick Monthly Meeting retreat, which happens yearly, written by participants of the retreat.
The 2025 New Brunswick Monthly Meeting (NBMM) Friends Retreat, took place at Saint Stephen’s University from November 7 to 9. This peaceful and nourishing gathering centred around the theme of joy, a theme that resonated deeply with participants during these challenging times.
Many participants had attended the NBMM retreat before, but several were there for the first time. The opening circle on Friday evening set a welcoming tone, inviting everyone to share personal experiences of joy, prompting not just simple introductions, but deep and meaningful connections which set the tone for the weekend.
Many thanks to Randy and Linda for facilitating so well and setting a joyful tone. Throughout the retreat there was a good balance of large group reflections and small group sharing, with thoughtfully crafted queries serving as helpful talking points. Worship sessions were relaxed and inspiring, with well chosen readings that enhanced the overall theme of joy and opened up fascinating reflections. The extended silence during Sunday worship provided a meaningful conclusion, leaving participants with a sense of deep connection.
Unscheduled time was appreciated throughout the weekend. It allowed attendees to rest, engage in side conversations, explore the campus, and enjoy leisurely meals. Some meals were potluck, others were catered. The catered meals, lovingly prepared by Carol Thiessen, were a highlight, nourishing both body and spirit.
Other highlights mentioned were a presentation by a young Friend from Fredericton, Vitek Springorum, on how we can help him to support families in Gaza (through the Gaza Support Network). Others recalled the funny experience of three Friends, all locking themselves out of their rooms at dawn, which brought a lot of laughter and camaraderie.
Suggestions for future retreats included adding more structure to Saturday night, such as music, storytelling, or poetry, to further build community. There was enthusiasm for integrating more music and movement, with offers to share resources for simple songs and chants.
Overall, the retreat was described as feeling like a family reunion – filled with joy, meaningful conversations, and spiritual sharing – a refreshing and inspiring experience for all.
In closing, here is a poem written and shared by Friend Gretchen Denis
Inner Light
I stand before you in love and humility,
but mostly in all-consuming joy and gratitude.
And who are you that I love?
You are Jesus, Mohammad, Buddha, Saint of all Saints,
The Celtic Oak, the revered Eagle, the Tao, the creator of
all the universal energy of life, the “Am” of “I Am”.
You are all of this.
You live in my center.
Your joy overwhelms me when I awake
and warms me when I fall asleep.