Connecting Our Dismas Fellowship Communities

To me, September always feels a little bit like the New Year (only not as cold.)

I guess that's probably because September usually signals the end of vacations, the return to work and the return of kids (and some adults) to school.

So why not utilize September as a chance to revamp and re-invigorate your Dismas community?

We all tend to slack off a little bit during the summer -- and rightly so. We all need R&R and a chance to unwind. But now that we are back to "normal" it's probably a good time to call folks up, set up a fresh roster of roles and duties and line up some themes you'd like to cover in future meetings. And why not call folks that you haven't seen in awhile?

September is the ideal time to generate some excitement since for most of us, it is instinctively a time to hit "restart." Let's get "back to school" and "re-enroll" ourselves in the great work of Dismas!

Let us know about some of your plans for the Fall!

Paul Tuck

Community Coordinator

The new Dismas Toronto West met for its 2nd time on August 1. The attendance was great even though some regulars were away. The group enjoyed burgers, pizza and several salads with an assortment of desserts. The reflection time was a short video about how obstacles in life can enhance our lives and shape our vision. The group discussions were lively and enthusiastic. A good time was had by all.

Dismas Fellowship Guelph had a fun response to the heat...Mexican Food! We enjoyed build your own tacos along with taco salad and nachos with some delicious desserts to follow. We had 2 first time guests with us, and Paul shared a reflection based on a humourous story, "Digging in the Wrong Direction" which was about the fact that the easiest way isn't always the best way!

Commenting on the August 9 meeting, Christopher Gosselin remarks:



Lower numbers, but still a good group. 1 man attended for the first time (from a halfway house) and was soon immersed in a card game. He had to leave a bit early for curfew.

William served lasagna complemented by salad, green beans, and a selection of fruit and cakes.

Our musicians were notably absent. We tried a couple of songs, but our effort reminded me of Leonard Cohen’s memorable lyric, “like a drunk in a midnight choir.” Well, perhaps not quite that bad, but no challenge to the Menno singers.

Mark asked the blessing for the meal, and I led the circle and closing prayer.

BIG BBQ in the Hammer!

Dismas Hamilton changed their meeting to Saturday, August 23 for an outdoor BBQ on the premises of L'Arche Hamilton. The group feasted on burgers, sausages, and corn on the cob with chips and watermelon. Thanks Ian S for setting up the hilarious "Corn Hole Tournament." Even the reluctant participants later talked about how much fun it was! At the end of the evening, one man was overheard to say "This was really special to me. I don't usually get to do normal things like this -- to hang out with friends at a BBQ"

Elvera Reimer shares...

Dismas Niagara met for the sixth time on August 25th - the fourth Monday of the month. Though our group numbered only 15, there was a deep feeling of friendship and community as we chatted, ate, sang and reflected together. The food was delicious and plentiful (sausage dogs with tons of toppings with potato salad) and we celebrated 3 August birthdays and 2 anniversaries: 41 years for Paul & Pam and 50 years for Bill & Elvera. Great milestones.

Our question for the evening encouraged us to tell about an event in our past that impacted our lives in positive ways. What a great way to share together. We also welcomed another first timer to the group - not new to Dismas, but new to our Niagara group.

EZ RECIPES FOR DISMAS DINNERS!

SLOW COOKER CHICKEN AND DUMPLINGS

Take this handy recipe and simply multiply the ingredients for a larger group. Click on the link below to learn how to put together this simple but mouth watering meal!

Did you know that you can support your local Dismas Group and receive a donation receipt for income taxes?

The easiest way to support your local Dismas is to go to the Friends of Dismas Canada Helps Page, scroll down and select which Dismas you want to support.

You can click on the button below and make a secure donation.

Do you need help, training, supplies or just someone to bounce ideas off of?

Call Paul Tuck at

(647) 525-8245

Or click below to send an email.