Life Stories Workshops

Gladys Thompson will be leading our weekly workshops. She has:

• a passion for hearing and sharing life stories, especially ‘God stories.’
• has helped publish memoirs of many who have served on the mission field.
• along with her sister, created a website to guide people in sharing their faith stories.
• written about her ancestors and family members.
• published an award-winning devotional book based on some of her own experiences.
• served as a Salvation Army officer for 25 years.
• worked in communications for over 15 years.
• earned a diploma in adult education from Durham College.

She is excited about the many possibilities for these workshops. Join us and be inspired by her wealth of experience and enthusiasm!

The deadline for registering is midnight, September 24, 2024.

Here are just a few benefits:

• Understanding: Learn about different lifestyles, places, and experiences.
• Expression: Explain your feelings and experiences, gaining new perspectives as you age.
• Connection: Feel heard and understood.
• Legacy: Help younger generations understand your life and actions.
• Insight: Share life’s ups and downs, providing wisdom and guidance.
• Faith: Leave a legacy of faith by sharing what God has done in your life.
• Perspective: See the world through others’ eyes.
• Significance: Your story is part of God’s bigger story, making it unique and important.
• Your story matters!

The workshops are free since the costs for the materials, etc., have all been covered through a grant.

No, writing is not required. While you may be encouraged to write your stories, you can share them through other mediums or simply by telling them to your family and friends. The important thing is to share your stories in a way that feels comfortable to you.

Unlike most memoir courses, which can be expensive and focus on writing for publication, our workshops are more inclusive and personal. We encourage you to share your stories with your family in various ways, such as writing, videotaping, podcasting, voice recording, or having someone else write them for you. Our goal is to make you feel comfortable sharing your stories in the way that suits you best, including your faith stories.

Each week, we’ll focus on a different life topic, often including stories about your faith and how your story fits into God’s bigger story. You’ll receive notes, worksheets, and a binder for your materials. We’ll use Scripture references, discuss ‘memory joggers’ and story ideas, share our stories, and learn from one another.

The goal is to appreciate and encourage each other while glorifying God. Each week, you’ll reflect on a topic and come ready to share your story at the next session.

We understand that attending every week might not be possible for everyone, and some may be away for several weeks. However, we encourage you to join us as often as possible and catch up on any missed material when you return.

You will be encouraged to share your story each week, but there is no pressure to do so. Some topics may be easier for you to discuss than others, and that’s perfectly okay. Share at your own pace and comfort level.

You’ll be surprised to find that you do! Everyone has a story!

Fill in the registration form. There’s a section where you can indicate your availability, and we’ll contact you to discuss other options.