Spring Is Here!
A Message From Our Executive Director
Hello Friends!
Spring has arrived in full force at Five Oaks, the daffodils have pushed up through the earth, the trees are beginning to change, green coming on in little buds. I am reminded as I read a chapter in Sara Jewell’s book, Alphabet of Faith, that we need to, “Trust in the slow work of the Creator.” I always feel impatient at this time of year for Spring to arrive, for the light to increase and for the air to warm. I am reminded that progress can be slow, and that this is good.
You may have noticed from Pegi Ridout’s message in our last newsletter that I was on a planned Sabbatical during January to March earlier this year. It is wonderful to be back at the centre and to be getting into the swing of things. I was sharing with someone the other day that even though I have been Executive Director of Five Oaks since Jan 1, 2020 (and in other roles even longer), that because of the pandemic, I really feel like April 1, 2023 was my first day on the job as Executive Director. I am looking forward to apply learnings, and my rest and renewal time to this role going forward. Learnings about vision, tending, community, planning, living in the moment and about practicing meaningful spiritual practice.
We are excited to welcome you back to the centre this Spring. Did you know that I am co-leading with author Sara Jewell, a retreat for ministry leaders for rest and renewal May 28-30? I hope you will join us. Earlier in the day on May 28, Five Oaks is hosting its first ever Drag Brunch. Our Annual General Meeting is set for Sunday June 4, please take time to register and join us in person, or online, and do not forget to purchase your 2023 membership.
There is so much you can do to support this beloved sacred space – you can make an extra giving, you can look forward to our 70th anniversary planning soon to be unveiled, you can encourage a group to come as a hosted group, or come yourself to a program or spend time on the land on a self directed personal retreat. Your financial gifts, your gifts of volunteering on the land or on a committee, your prayers all make a daily difference this place offers to hundreds of people each month.
I look forward to seeing you again soon,
Michael Shewburg, Executive Director.
Five Oaks and Big Cityyy Arts present…
SPRING FLING DRAG BRUNCH — Sunday, May 28. Doors are at 11:30 AM and you’ll have time to claim your seat, enjoy some beverages and continental breakfast offerings, take a pic in our selfie station and settle in before our show; the drag show will kick off at 12:15 PM and will run in two parts, giving you a luxurious intermission to enjoy and imbibe in our scrumptious brunch buffet. The show will be a sassy, silly and sensational showcase of some of Canada’s most marvellous drag performers.
So what is DRAG??
Drag is an ARTFORM! It’s queer performance art that allows individuals in the community to experiment with gender roles and presentation. It’s an artistic outlet to express themselves. It’s to entertain and be a source of joy in the community. Most of all… DRAG should be FUN!
The 2022 Gratitude Report is Here! CLICK HERE to view a web version of the report.
Five Oaks Upcoming Programs – click link below for info.
2023 Membership
Membership in Five Oaks Centre is a way to show your support, stay informed, and have voting privileges at the Centre’s AGM. The 2023 Membership Registration is now open. Click Here to Register
Annual General Meeting is June 4th!
We invite you to and give notice of the Annual General Meeting for the 2022 fiscal year. The AGM will be held on Sunday June 4th at 2:00pm, hosted both virtually and in-person.
This year we are offering a fundraising dinner at the end of the AGM. Join us and experience a delicious dinner in celebration of the 70th Anniversary of Five Oaks! For $50, you can be served an incredible dinner and help support Five Oaks continue our mission and work.
Registration is open until Monday, May 29th, 2023. Please click the Sign Up button to reserve your spot!