The weekend of October 10–12, 2025, brought the ladies of the Eastern Diocese together at the Most Holy Mother of God Monastery, affectionately known as Shadeland. Now in its second year, this retreat was sponsored by the Eastern Region Circle of Serbian Sisters and centered on the theme, “Grateful to God.”

The weekend began Friday evening as women arrived from more than 15 parishes. A delicious lenten dinner was served to welcome everyone. Eastern Region Vice-President, DeeDee Baskot of St. Sava Church in McKeesport, was responsible for preparing the fantastic meals the entire weekend.  Later, Georgette Osmet of St. Elijah Church in Aliquippa, led a hands-on demonstration on how to stretch dough for burek. Each participant had the chance to try their hand at the process, and the freshly made burek was later served for Saturday’s lunch.

Saturday morning began with a frosty chill in the air, but spirits quickly warmed as Kristina Marinkovich of St. Nicholas Church in Johnstown led a gentle stretching session that everyone could join. Fr. Rodney Torbic then led the morning prayers, followed by breakfast. 

The highlight of the morning was the arrival of Mother Christophora, Abbess of the Monastery of the Transfiguration in Ellwood City. She spoke beautifully on the theme of gratitude, highlighting moments in the Divine Liturgy where we give thanks to God. With her quick wit and insightful words, she held all sixty attendees captivated.

Pat Kolar of St. Nicholas Church in Monroeville led a thoughtful discussion on mindfulness and the importance of keeping God at the center of our lives. She and Alexis Janiga, also from St. Nicholas Church, introduced a Gratitude Journal and shared how journaling can improve mood and increase positivity. Each attendee received a beautiful journal to take home to begin their own journey of thankfulness.

Before lunch, participants worked together to assemble 200 personal care blessing bags for a local shelter in Erie. Thanks to generous donations from individuals and parishes, each bag was filled with essentials and delivered by Cathy Bilak. Cathy’s car was completely filled with the 200 blessing bags, plus many additional personal care items.

After another amazing meal, Meghan Clayton and Marie Angelini of Sts. Peter and Paul Orthodox Church in Crossingville led an engaging discussion on Songs of Praise, A Psalter Devotional for Orthodox Women.  Participants shared psalms that had offered them strength and comfort throughout their lives, and reflected on the importance of daily prayer. Later, small groups were formed to read and discuss verses from the Kathisma, creating a deeply spiritual and moving experience.

As the afternoon sun appeared, chairs were carried outside into the warmth for a session on gut health, again led by Kristina Marinkovich, whose presentation gave everyone much to think about.

During free time, many took the opportunity to go to confession with Fr. Rodney, while others walked the grounds, visited the Amish store, or enjoyed quiet conversations and fellowship. That evening, everyone gathered for an Akathist to the Protection of the Mother of God, led by Fr. Rodney and Deacon Mark Matijevich.

After dinner, participants enjoyed a relaxing craft session making dried flower pillar candles, followed by lively kolo dancing, laughter, and song.

On Sunday morning, the group came together at the church for Divine Liturgy, with responses led by Dawn Kosanovich, Paula Dragovich, and Joyce Jovetich. Five of our wonderful summer camp counselors—Sara Topich, Maria Janiga, Nessa Wright, Jeli Dragovich, and Natalija Gligorevic—attended the retreat and sang beautifully two camp favorites Marijo Slavna and Uskliknimo.

Father Rodney expressed gratitude well in his sermon when he said, “Constantly giving thanks and glorifying God daily is living life to the fullest.Jesus Christ fills each life with His love to hearts, minds and souls open to Him. Hearts, minds and souls filled with Jesus’s love resound with gratitude.”

After breakfast, heartfelt goodbyes were shared. Everyone left Shadeland refreshed, uplifted, and truly grateful to God for a weekend of faith, friendship, and renewal.