Women’s Getaway 2024
Our MU Getaway this year was on the 11th and 12th of October in Armagh City Hotel. The event was organised by the All Ireland Reps Liz and Wendy, under the watchful eye of All Ireland President, June and VP Action and Outreach, Hazel. This year 162 ladies attended either part or all of the Getaway, with 9 members from Connor at the full Getaway and 13 attending the dinner on Friday evening. It was great seeing new faces and welcoming back the regulars. Our guest speaker was Ruth Garvey-Williams from Buncrana in Co Donegal. Ruth has been working for the last 34 years in both the UK, Ireland and across Europe. Ruth has two grown-up daughters, one of whom got married on the 19th of October but Ruth had committed to being with us before the wedding plans were confirmed! Our theme for the Getaway was “Gloriously Ordinary”. Ruth reminded us on Friday evening that this was our time to reflect and our precious time away. Ruth is very aware of all that the Mothers’ Union in Ireland do and the fantastic awareness of the 16 days of activism against violence as well as all the work we do in our own communities and overseas.
The Getaway got off to a marvellous start on Friday evening with a visit to the Palace Demesne, Armagh. Some walked or drove to the Palace which is surrounded by beautiful grounds and the autumn colours were amazing to see. We were greeted by the Lord Mayor, Sarah Duffy and were served delicious canapes and refreshments. After dinner back at the hotel, our All Ireland Chaplain, Archdeacon Stephen McBride led our Mini Big Sing accompanied by Claire Smyth who is a brilliant musician. The hymn which topped our poll was “How Great Thou Art”. Thanks to our All Ireland Chaplain for introducing them in his own unique way by bringing his own thoughts to each hymn. Friday evening closed with a short epilogue led by the Most Reverend Bishop John McDowell.
The next morning after breakfast, June, the All Ireland President welcomed everyone to the Getaway. We had a further 82 folk join our overnighters. Registration was busy, but all was under control with the help of Debbie, DP of Armagh and her members along with our very own Jacqui Connor Social Policy Contact and Roslyn Area Chair for North Connor, who was a huge support and help throughout the event.
Ruth covered 3 sessions in the morning, Jars of Clay, This Treasure, and Time Out for personal reflection. Each session began with a hymn once again accompanied by Claire on the keyboard. Ruth reminded us of getting to know our God. Our God who is generous, kind and loving. Whatever you are facing you have this treasure, and the ability to keep going. While Ruth was speaking to us, we had fun with some clay and making a mould for our tea lights. We have this treasure in jars of clay to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. There were amazing treasures of clay being made and Ruth reminded us of the light shining through the gaps of our treasure, something to hold onto, listen to our God as we are always in his capable hands. Ruth’s final session gave us time to think and reflect on what we had heard earlier. We had the opportunity to walk outside and enjoy the Armagh autumn colours around us, sit in a quiet place to reflect on the treasure that is the Lord Jesus and spend time thanking Him. Talk to Jesus about where you feel afflicted, perplexed or struck down. Reflect on the hope that HE is with you. Before lunch mid-day prayers were led by Armagh Diocesan Chaplain, Revd Alan Cross.
After lunch, we had our final session entitled “GO Activity” with Carol Doey leading us. The session started in fine fashion with calypso dancing to “Jump In The Line” (Shake, shake, shake, Senora) which certainly woke us up after our delicious lunch. Carol then asked us to think of the title of our life story and the titles of the first 4 chapters of the book with the next chapter to be continued. Those who wanted could share with everyone what they had written all of which were very thought-provoking. Carol then facilitated a time of meditation which allowed everyone to relax in preparation for going home, she then closed the GO Activity session with a rousing rendition of “This little light of mine, I’m going to let it shine”.
The Getaway was a wonderful opportunity for the members to enjoy a little “me time” in our busy lives. Armagh proved to be a wonderful venue, with great food and also a very relaxing atmosphere. Everyone commented on how much they enjoyed reconnecting with old friends and making new ones. There was a great sense of fun, faith and fellowship throughout our time away. At the end of the Getaway, it was great to see friendships being formed and the exchanging of contact details.
A huge thanks to June, Hazel, and Debbie, DP of Armagh for their support, and valued expertise along the way to make this event happen. Thanks also to Heather and her helpers for providing the MUe stall, to Ann, our photographer, and to Joy who made the knitted hearts as a lovely keepsake for everyone who attended, it was the host diocese’s way of sending love and fellowship from Armagh back to all our dioceses, branches members and friends.