Mercy Care friendship volunteers and elder friends gather at the Paul Smiths College VIC for the Spirituality Retreat hosted by Mercy Care for the Adirondacks on Sept.17. (Provided photo)

LAKE PLACID — Last month, Mercy Care for the Adirondacks held a spirituality retreat at the Paul Smith’s College VIC on the topic of “Living Well: Caring for the Human Spirit in Times of Growth and Change.” Open to the public, the Mercy Care Spirituality Retreat offered a day immersed in nature for reflection, expert presenters and spiritual connection.

The retreat offered inspiration with a variety of local expert presenters beginning with a moving spiritual offering led by Sister Brian Marie Latour, RSM, Sister of Mercy. By the end of her offering, the crowd was singing along to “Both Sides Now” by Joni Mitchell.

Songwriter Martha Gallager then both delighted and centered the crowd with harp music and a presentation on “Exploring the Joys of Singing & Creating Mantra, Chants, and Simple Songs.” Participants next experienced a guided reflection meditation and discussion with local author, healer and reiki master Kathleen McPhillips and her presentation “Awakening Your Inner Mystic: Learning to Trust Yourself.” The day ended with a discussion on the importance of support and connection led by Jane Stratton, RN, MS, Mercy Care Faith Community Nurse Consultant.

Mercy Care’s mission is to enhance in every dimension the fullness of life of elders living in the local community. These spirituality retreats aim to offer time to care for the human spirit and support and connection for Mercy Cares spiritual care companions, parish nurses, friendship volunteers and older adults in the community.