Christmas was a beautiful season. As a volunteer-run charity, we were so thankful for the wider community that banded together around us, giving generously of their time, talents, and resources, so that we could make this season extra special for our guest families.
Nine families enjoyed a vacation over Christmas and New Year’s holidays and many more were involved in our open houses and special events. We had the opportunity to meet many new faces and to share Waupoos with them for the first time.
After roasting marshmallows (and potatoes) over the fire on Christmas Eve, we gathered in the lodge for a Liturgy of the Word. Ulyn shared her musical gifts, children reenacted the Christmas story, and we had a Christmas sing-along with the smell of ham and pie cooking in the background.
There was something special about this room of people, representing many different generations and backgrounds, gathered together—formerly strangers, now friends—celebrating Christmas together.
The New Year’s vacation featured an open house event, brunch on the morning of January 1st, a special magic show with John Pert and Friends, morning prayer, and many activities. We enjoyed Canadian winter activities, like sledding and broomball, and warmed up with hot chocolate.
Waupoos provided a chance for families to lean into the peace and the joy of the season and head into 2025 having had a small respite.
