Connecting Our Dismas Fellowship Communities

In the middle of a brutally cold day last winter, I made a promise to myself. I said "This summer, I will not complain about the heat!" And so far, I haven't. If you are not a big fan of summer, don't worry... soon enough it will be over. But until that transition happens, we should take advantage of the weather! I am happy to observe that many of our Dismas groups have been enjoying the summer with BBQs, outdoor gatherings and get-togethers to enjoy games and mingling. These less formal gatherings are good for us to connect with one another more personally.

Some groups have taken a break for either July or August, which may be necessary due to people's vacations. But let's try to stay connected, and make sure everyone is ready to be back in action in September.

I do hope everyone is enjoying these "dog days of summer," I know I am! ARF!! -- Paul

Harry Nigh shares...

A short report about our first "official" Toronto West Dismas - a good night with over 20 attending, almost half the fellows former prisoner.

One heart-warming moment - when one of the guys called me over, excited to introduce a friend whom he hadn't seen in 18 years when they did time together in Warkworth. 

The food was terrific with leftovers to take home - thanks Pete for organizing. We did not have any instruments but the group wanted to sing anyway. I did a PowerPoint presentation entitled "New Life for Stumps" with photos from Drag Lake near Haliburton. Then we had two small, engaged groups sharing their experiences with how they dealt with being cut off or cut down and finding new life.

We also made a pitch for two new volunteers for the combined Toronto Dismas Board...asked folks to contact Pete if interested. Thanks for the great support from volunteers setting up and in the kitchen.

Dismas Fellowship Guelph had a special celebration for two of our volunteers who are expecting a baby this month! We met at the country home of Randy and Eileen Henderson and enjoyed grilled burgers and sausages with salads and desserts. Instead of a circle time, we played some games and celebrated the joy of new life and good friendships. Congratulations to Elyssa and Bashar who are expecting a boy!!

On Friday July 11, Dismas Fellowship KW had a good turnout (and over half the attendees were ex inmates.) The menu was fit for summer with "build your own super sandwiches" along with several salads and sides, and for dessert, fruits, raspberry tarts and brownies. Janet shared a reflection on how seemingly bad situations can actually turn out good. A wonderful time was had by all.

Fun Fellowship in Hamilton:

"Drop-In Games Day"

Dismas Hamilton decided to change things up with a more casual approach to the July meeting. The meeting was extended as a "drop in" time for games and fellowship. Besides an abundance of snacks, everyone enjoyed pizza and sides for dinner. Next month, Dismas Hamilton is changing their meeting to August 23 for an outdoor BBQ at the premises of L'Arche Hamilton.

We had quite a few away on vacation but still had a great time at Dismas Cambridge on July 21. For dinner we enjoyed meatball subs with salads and chips and ice cream treats for dessert. Instead of a regular reflection we played a game to get to know one another better: "2 Truths and a Lie," It was a hoot! But it was also enlightening to learn things about one another that we didn't know!

Dismas Fellowship Niagara

Although the numbers were down slightly, Dismas Niagara had a wonderful time on July 28 and had 2 first time guests. A fabulous meal of homemade pasta and salad was served with several delicious desserts to follow. Steve B shared the reflection which was about our "dreams and visions" and everyone shared!

EZ RECIPES FOR DISMAS DINNERS!

SLOW COOKER PIZZA CASSEROLE

This recipe from Taste of Home website takes only 20 minutes to prep and 2 hours to cook in a crock pot. Click on the link to find this easy recipe that is sure to please!

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.