Eager to learn about enhancing one’s wellness of mind, body, and spirit, 70 women gathered at Saint Mary by-the-Sea in Cape May Point, NJ for our 19
th
Women’s Wellness Weekend, sponsored by the SSJ Development Office, September 7-9, 2018.
Though the weather was rainy, the participants thoroughly enjoyed the keynote address by
Sister Dolores Clerico SSJ
in which she encouraged everyone to think of gardening as a metaphor for the spiritual life.
Workshops on managing stress, learning about the Enneagram, osteoporosis prevention, mind/body wisdom, creative writing, and other wellness related topics were offered. The weekend included exercise on the beach each morning, healthy meals, opportunities for massage and vibrational sound therapy, Mass and evening socials. Winners of the many raffle baskets were drawn during the Saturday night social, where the theme was Mexican Fiesta.
Several comments from participants acknowledge how meaningful and inspirational these weekends are:
I love coming for these weekends because the atmosphere is warm and welcoming.
This weekend is excellent in every way.
This weekend means more to me than I can put into words. Don’t change a thing!
I know that your mission is uniting people with people and people with God. You certainly accomplish it here at Women’s Wellness Weekend! We all benefit, and we take what we experience back home with us.
Many of the participants return to Saint Mary’s for other retreats and/or to do volunteer work during the summer. All of the women who attend these weekends learn more about the Sisters of Saint Joseph, our mission and our ministries. Some have gone on to become Associates in Mission, and many become regular donors.
A dedicated planning committee led by Catrese Brown prepares a weekend in June and one in September every year. All presenters are volunteers. Nicole Schlein, Events Coordinator for the SSJ Development Office, manages all the work done ahead of time by the planning committee, Saint Mary’s staff and the Development Office. The $14,000 raised at the weekend will go to the support of Saint Joseph Villa.