Inaugural Meeting

At the end of this week-long workshop, the group met to consider future plans. Bonnie Shimizu who facilitated, expressed the importance of Canada being represented and having a voice in Contemplative Outreach International.

After discussion, it was unanimously agreed that we formally inaugurate Contemplative Outreach Canada and that St. Benedict’s Retreat and Conference Centre, Winnipeg, be its information and resource centre.

At the inaugural meeting of the group on June 26, 2000, the following decisions were made:

1. To use the logo of Contemplative Outreach International. Permission was granted by Bonnie Shimizu.
2. To publish a regular newsletter to connect regions.
3. To establish archives and place there, the document signed by founding members.
4. To be represented at the Annual Convention in Chicago. Sister Therese Jasmin offered. Carolyn Gratton, area coordinator, Toronto, will also represent Canada.
5. To establish a bank account and deposit $39.00 collected to date.

The meeting closed with a group decision to communicate again on October 17th at 8:00 p.m. by conference call from St. Benedict’s.

On June 27th in a beautiful closing service, presided over by Fr. Raymond Sevigny, the founding core group members were each anointed and commissioned for ministry.

They signed the document of inauguration which was prepared by Monica Midgley. The founding members of Contemplative Outreach Canada are: Fr. Raymond Sevigny, Edmonton, Sr. Cecile Lanovaz, Duck Lake, Sask., Jean Hogg, Calgary, Linda Condie, Frances Evers, Sr. Claire Himbeault, Sr. Therese Jasmin, Sr. Catherine Labinowich, Monica Midgley, Elaine Pinto, Bea Weger and Irene Wiens, Winnipeg.

We give thanks for the outpouring of the Spirit, that guided these events and for all the dedicated participants committed to sharing the contemplative dimension of the Gospel in Canada.

Vol. 1, No 1