Connecting Our Dismas Fellowship Communities

March: A Time for Renewal and Growth.


As March arrives, the first hints of spring will soon remind us that change rarely comes all at once. It begins quietly—longer light in the mornings, a softness in the air, a little warmer, small signs of life pushing through cold ground. These early shifts don’t demand attention, yet they steady us. They whisper that growth is still possible, even after long seasons of winter and waiting.


Spring’s first days invite us to trust the slow work of renewal. They remind us that what looks dormant may simply be gathering strength, and that forward movement often begins in ways we barely notice. As we step into a new month, may we pay attention to these small beginnings. They help us keep moving, keep hoping, and keep believing that new life and hope can emerge in unexpected places.


What renewals or small beginnings are you experiencing?



Paul Tuck,

Community Coordinator

UPDATES
From All Ontario Dismas Groups

Brockville: Prayerfully Looking Ahead

For our February meeting, Alex supplied the meal for the night and Eric brought the reflection. A small group, but a good meeting. Pray for Dismas Fellowship Brockville and their future direction as Eric Richards steps down from leadership soon, leaving a vacuum.

Toronto West: Happy "Pal-entines!"

Paul Bar shares...


It was a cold blustery evening when 23 souls showed up to share in some fellowship in the warm confines of
Christ Church St. James.

A delicious home cooked dinner of ham, chicken pot pie, mixed vegetables, salads and scalloped potatoes was served followed by home baked cupcakes, cookies and other desserts, courtesy of the Alderwood United ChurchBruce shared his talents and led us in both hymns and songs. Following that, Gladys and Roy led us in a reflection of the meaning of friendship and community as we all celebrated "Pal" entines Day, as it was February after all!   


Guelph: Remembering Bonnie

Dismas Fellowship Guelph gathered on Wednesday, February 4 to remember our beautiful Bonnie Simcoe who passed away suddenly on January 22, 2026.


To remember her, we had her favorite meal, butter chicken with rice and naan with butter tarts for dessert. We had a table display of her picture and some memorabilia. Mark H made everyone 3D cats (since Bonnie was a cat lover.) We were also happy to welcome a student from U of Guelph Criminal Justice program who is interested in volunteering.

In the circle,
Grant Watkinson shared a beautiful song that brought tears to our eyes. Then everyone was given an opportunity to share a memory or thought about Bonnie. It was a sad but meaningful time together.


Thank you Sabrina Hotchkiss from Dismas Cambridge for creating the above heavenly picture of Bonnie.


Kitchener-Waterloo: Being Silly is Ok

Dismas KW met on Friday 13. William prepared regular and gluten-free lasagna and garlic bread and others brought salads and desserts.

Paul Tuck led the song time in Lynda's absence (hip surgery recovery).

Janet brought a reflection which encouraged us to share something silly about ourselves, which evoked many chuckles.

Kingston: Gathering Steam!

The Kingston Dismas Fellowship is waiting for their meeting place to be renovated before they can move forward at "Full Steam." Hopefully they can begin regularly scheduled meetings in March at St. Joseph's Catholic Church.

Hamilton: Happy Times Together!

Dismas Fellowship Hamilton had a great turnout on Friday, Feb 20. The kitchen crew served up generous portions of cheesy, meaty pasta with garlic bread and other sides. Several desserts were offered, including Edgar's ever popular cheesecake!


Rick Pauw shared the reflection which was about "gifts we share that do not cost anything." As usual, a wonderful time was enjoyed by all.

Toronto East: A "Chili" Night!

Paul Bar shares...



We had 30 members show up for our DFN Toronto East February Dinner and AGM. A variety of chili types was served, some spicy, some regular as well as vegetarian along with chips and rolls... in other words something for everybody. Thank you to Kevin and Harry for their detailed reporting and to all who helped cook, serve and clean up afterwards.   

Niagara: Growing Stronger!

Elvera Reimer shares....

February, 23, 2026

Another great evening at Dismas Niagara. Once again the food was delicious: homemade Shepherd’s Pie, freshly baked bread, green salad and home baked pies. We so very much appreciate the Church groups who volunteer to provide us with a tasty meal. And we always welcome them to join our Circle Time so they too can experience the fellowship & sharing that is our tradition at Dismas. 


We also welcomed some first-time visitors and a guest that we hadn’t seen in a few months. Our group once again numbered 21. Our prayer is that as warmer weather returns, so will a few other core members. 


Matt & Bill did a great job leading our evening. The question “Who has influenced & supported you in your life?” resonated and many people honoured people in their lives who had shaped and impacted them. It was a good evening!

DONATIONS TO DISMAS NEEDED...

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 own 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.

You can also make a donation to Dismas Fellowship Network or to the local Dismas of your choosing by scanning or taking a picture of the QR CODE.


It will take you to a secure location to make the donation. There is a box where you can select where you want your donation to be applied.

We would love to post pics and happenings from all our Dismas groups! Email your updates to Paul, our Community Coordinator

before the end of each month.

A Little Laff... with Marv Rempel
(Reminder Daylight Savings begins on March 8)


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.