Spouses of the Diocese of West Texas clergy gathered at Mustang Island Conference Center (MICC) for a Fall retreat the weekend of September 26-28. The retreat, hosted by Jacqui Read, wife of the Rt. Rev. Dr. David G. Read, Bishop of West Texas, is a time for spouses to come together for spiritual rejuvenation, relaxation, and the opportunity to connect and share the common bond of being a clergy spouse.
The weekend included arts activities, beach time, and MICC’s delicious meals.
A highlight of the gathering was a presentation by Roger Hutchison, Children’s and Family minister at Palmer church in Houston. Roger is a best-selling author, illustrator, and multi-talented creative communicator. Roger is known for his compassionate work with children affected by tragedy, and for his openness about his personal journey with ADHD, anxiety, and depression. His writing, art, and photography aim to bring healing and hope to a world in need. To learn more about Roger, visit his website.
Commenting on the weekend, Jacqui Read stated, "Roger shared his most recent book, Sparrow’s Prayer, and although it’s a beautiful children’s book, the lesson the sparrow learns is that even when we don’t have the words to pray, our daily interactions with one another are a form of prayer. He gave us the opportunity for reflection using art supplies. There were twenty five of us all together. The weather was perfect and the food was delicious! We loved our time together at our Island home!"
Suzanna Green, spouse of the Rev. Andrew Green, Rector of St. Phililp’s in Beeville shared, “Every year I look forward to the chance to get away for a few days to reflect and connect with other clergy spouses from around the diocese. This year we had a fantastic speaker, Roger Hutchinson, who guided us into some self and group reflection through a mix of stories and art. While I loved his presentations, time to relax on the beach, and of course the delicious food, the thing that I found myself reflecting on the most at the end of our time together was the feeling of support and encouragement that I received from every conversation I had throughout the weekend. I looked around the room during our closing worship and felt so inspired as I noticed the way that people of all-ages were coming together to worship God and to support one another. I am so thankful for this group of folks who genuinely care for one another through all the highs and lows of the clergy spouse life.”
