The Garland Women’s Retreat has been gathering for over 20 consecutive years each February. While it’s offered by First Presbyterian of Garland, the retreat has become a homecoming for women from all across North Texas and beyond! The retreat planners are enthused to add their special flair to the camp for the weekend and even the kitchen staff have learned to look forward to the table decorations that reflect the theme of the retreat. In 2020 the theme was Joy! Who knew that in less than a month the world would be turned upside down by COVID-19. The Joy embraced by the weekend’s teachings and companionship would be such a remarkable reservoir to have at the ready.
One joy that has been a mainstay, regardless of weather, is Saturday canoeing. The afternoon is filled with laughter, races, and giving rides to those who have never been in a canoe. A Gilmont lifeguard is at the ready, to give a strong push off and to make sure all are safe.
Another joy is when the staff have the fire ring prepped and ready to light for late night smores and singing around the campfire.
Each year the retreat team plans a service project to try to demonstrate our gratitude for the sacredness of Camp Gilmont, and the staff that welcome and assist us each year. We have seen first-hand the wonderful improvements to the facility over the 20 years and plan to continue the Women’s Retreat meeting at Gilmont to witness the 100th birthday!
Nancy DiGray
One joy that has been a mainstay, regardless of weather, is Saturday canoeing. The afternoon is filled with laughter, races, and giving rides to those who have never been in a canoe. A Gilmont lifeguard is at the ready, to give a strong push off and to make sure all are safe.
Another joy is when the staff have the fire ring prepped and ready to light for late night smores and singing around the campfire.
Each year the retreat team plans a service project to try to demonstrate our gratitude for the sacredness of Camp Gilmont, and the staff that welcome and assist us each year. We have seen first-hand the wonderful improvements to the facility over the 20 years and plan to continue the Women’s Retreat meeting at Gilmont to witness the 100th birthday!
Nancy DiGray