Seven years ago, my good friend Doug invited me to be part of a journey of mentorship and friendship. Doug and I first met in 1997 and we have stayed in touch all these years. I love him like a brother. He is wise, kind, generous and remarkably competent in leadership and relationships.

We are at Kingsfold Retreat Centre, a relatively small retreat centre located in the foothills just above the Bow River as it makes its way towards Cochrane and Calgary. A Chinook is blowing right now, so there’s no snow and mild temperatures. It is a beautiful property, and our group of “brothers” brings a delight to my soul.

Our company of brothers represents Christian leaders from different backgrounds and ages. We have developed a deep sense of trust in each other and a deep knowledge of our lives and backgrounds.

Each morning and evening we gather to begin and end the day in prayer. Here is one of the prayers that I have come to value and love which we share in the evening.

“Keep watch, dear Lord, with those who work, or watch, or weep this night, and give your angels charge over those who sleep. Tend the sick, Lord Christ; give rest to the weary, bless the dying, soothe the suffering, pity the afflicted, shield the joyous, and all for your love’s sake. Amen.”

We have prayed for each other, for our families, for our spiritual, physical and emotional needs. We have lifted each other up and given encouragement or admonishment as the Lord has directed. These have been rich days.

Tomorrow we leave for our respective homes. I will be glad to be home, to be with Wendy, to be with family. I will continue to pray for them, and they will pray for us.