From the opening moments of the Welcome by SIS Evelyn Wright and beautiful Opening Prayer by Donna Pierson, a feeling of love for our sisters and gratitude for being among friends and Sisters in Christ was felt. One could see in the smiles, the laughter and the hugs – expressions of love and the joy of meeting a new sister or finally seeing a sister not seen in a long while.

Talks and Activities focusing on Peace, Love and Soul presented by SIS Laura Allen and SIS Carol Tyson, and the shared Devotionals were certainly important ingredients for lifting up the spirits as we mixed and shared our thoughts, emotions and feelings with each other at our table.

Grief

Guest Speaker, Minister Dianna Tardy, M. A., CPE, Chaplain
of Care and Counseling Ministry, Fallbrook Church, in her talk was very instrumental in walking with us through the Grief process. She gently guided all through six steps to help in the grief journey; namely:

• Accepting (life change)
• Dealing with your emotions (fear, sadness, loneliness)
• Adjusting (being able to say you are not here, and I have to
  go on without you)

Addressing Questions

Continuing (to take steps honoring his memory) and

Try Comforting Others (move focus from yourself to someone
else).

In One Word Sisters and Guests expressed their feelings of
what they felt about the Widows Tea. The sounds of their expressions were music to the ears as they described it as: Wonderful, Beautiful, Joyful, A Blessing, Special, Fun, Amazing, Encouraging, Peaceful, Triumphant, Awesome, Elegant, Path Forward, Grateful, Timely, Memorable, Lovely.

All were blessed with the comforting and beautiful closing
prayer by Rev. Darryl Drenon, Deacon St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church.

EXPRESSIONS AND COMPLIMENTS

This was organized and sent by a guest to remember the event
…

This is s Thank You Card received from a SIS Sister

Message from Mary Hill,

Charter Member:

I had never been to a tea that touched my spirit. It was totally different from entrance to exit. It was welcoming and the atmosphere said, “Come on in!”

Relaxation was provided by a joyful group, atmosphere was positive, food was delicious and beautifully arranged, the environment throughout the room was simply elegant including the china tea sets. The professional development committee “DID IT!” Only positive vibes were offered and felt. We need happy times together and don’t even realize it. This was a happy time; thank you! MH

Geneva Charles of St. Benedict Parish expressed thanks to the committee organizers of the Tea for a wonderful gathering and tribute to all widows. She expressed appreciation for all of the wonderful ideas shared to honor widows. She said she would in turn present them to St. Benedict Church groups and initiate plans for a special gathering like this one.

Ephesians 1:3 Blessed the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ, with every spiritual blessing in the heavens.