Sometimes, being a PWS&D Champion means providing your congregation with updates during Sunday morning announcements or planning a special service or event to raise support. At other times, being a Champion can look like taking time out to learn and connect with other people dedicated to making a difference around the world.

This October, 13 individuals from Ontario met at Crieff Hills Retreat Centre to learn about the work of PWS&D. Activities included devotions together, reading first-hand accounts from people participating in PWS&D programs in countries like Malawi, Ghana and Pakistan, a question and answer session with director Guy Smagghe and delicious meals topped off with s’mores around the campfire. The two-day event concluded with a tour of the working farm on-site and an appeal to engage Champions’ congregations in advocating to the government for more support of official development assistance.

Femmy Birks and her husband Grant are co-Champions at Knox Presbyterian Church in Waterloo, Ont. For several years, they have attended retreats to learn about the work of PWS&D and bring their learnings back to their congregation. Reflecting on the gathering, Femmy shared, “The retreat was lovely; we so appreciated the various sessions and the information provided. Time spent with others and sharing of ideas was helpful and fun.”

A gathering like this is a great opportunity for someone interested in volunteering with PWS&D to get a taste of how they will be supported as they engage their congregation. In addition to the ten PWS&D Champions in attendance, three people came as invited guests and were able to have their questions about the network answered.

If you would be interested in having a Champions retreat in your area, please reach out to Emma at [email protected].