Retreat Center Staff and Community

Retreat Center Staff

Standing: Nettie Castelyns (Nutritional Services), Barry May (Maintenance), Linda Gregg, CSJ
Seated: Pauline Shea CSJ, Alma Lavell CSJ, Joan Driscoll CSJ, and Noah.

Nettie Castelyns

Nettie Castelyns, our nutritionist, has been with us for 21years. Her wholesome, home-cooked meals, served with taste and elegance, are very much appreciated by those who come. The produce from our organic garden, in Nettie’s capable hands, adds much to food servings, creatively presented at each meal. Nettie is also responsible for general house-keeping.

Alma Lavell

Alma Lavell, a member of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peterborough, joins our team this year. She brings skills in retreat work and spiritual direction as well as experience in administration and congregational leadership.

Linda Gregg

Linda Gregg, a member of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peterborough, has a Masters of Divinity, and is presently working on her doctorate in ecology. For the last ten years, she has worked here as part of the team that offers spiritual direction as well the yearly programme, and is responsible for the Community Gardens and our own organic garden. Linda contributes much to an earth-sustainable way of life.

Joan Driscoll

Joan Driscoll, a member of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peterborough, joined the retreat team in September of 2004. With a Masters in Mission Studies, she spent time as a missionary in Brazil, and has a particular interest in justice issues. She has also had training and experience in spiritual direction. Joan has taken responsibility for registration and promotion of the retreat center.

Pauline Shea

Pauline Shea, a member of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peterborough, has joined our team this year. She has been involved in finance and administration in our congregation for several years, including the task of General Secretary. Pauline brings to our team a wealth of gifts and skills including homemaking, computer and secretarial skills, as well as talent in interior design.

Barry May

Barry May, our part-time maintenance worker, is currently the custodian of St. Michael’s Church. After working for 28 years in the food-processing industry, he is putting to use the skills learned from a farming background, as he attends to repairs and upkeep on our large property. Barry is married to Therese, is father to Sara and Lee, and Pappa to Brayden.

Noah

Noah. Our Villa Retreat Centre has always been enriched by the presence and companionship of a dog: first Chips, then Joey, and now a beautiful golden retriever, with the Biblical name of Noah, the first ecologist. Noah’s loving disposition brings healing and comfort to many who come here.