I recently had the joy of attending the West Pennant Hills Women’s Retreat, held in a beautiful home in Toukley, NSW. With water views, peaceful surroundings, and comfortable spaces for both conversation and quiet reflection, the setting created a calm and welcoming atmosphere where we could relax and connect.

The weekend was filled with music, laughter, and heartfelt conversation. We shared meals around a common table, told stories that deepened our friendships, and found moments of quiet reflection that refreshed our spirits. There was joy in simply being together, lingering over coffee, lifting our voices in song, sharing our prayers, and celebrating the gift of community.

During the weekend, I found myself thinking about the Community of Christ Enduring Principle Pursuit of Peace (Shalom) and how clearly it was reflected in our time together. God’s vision for the world is one of well-being and wholeness, where each person is valued and able to flourish. The peace of Christ was tangible in the way we listened to one another, encouraged each other, and created a space where everyone felt they belonged.

I left the retreat with a renewed sense of how peace grows in laughter shared, in kindness extended, and in moments when we open our hearts to God and to each other. May we carry this peace into our daily lives, so that others too may experience the joy and wholeness God desires for all creation.

With gratitude,

Meredith Carr