Sonja joined Women of the Well for her second Weekend Retreat in November of 2023 at the beautiful property of St Joseph's Spirituality and Education Centre in Kincumber.

When asked about her experience this second time around Sonija said;

"Both have been really different… where I am on my own journey has been quite different. So I think that's added different elements across both. The first retreat I didn't know what to expect. This one, I've had a little bit more of an understanding of the structure of the retreat and some things have changed as well. But I think both have enriched my journey as to where I was and have been in my life.”

‍Highlights for Sonja were the times to pray through art, the small groups and the way the Soul Sisters brought their own unique gifts to the retreat.

‍“I believe Women of the Well was inspired by the Holy Spirit to fill a space through the Soul Sisters who have come together with their own unique gifts and talents to form this amazing opportunity for Australian women.”

‍When asked to share on why she thinks these Women of the Well Retreats are so important and valuable to the women who attend, Sonja said;

‍“I think it's very unique and has filled an enormous space on the boundaries of the broader Church, and people of no particular faith tradition as well, in a very unique way that hasn't existed in the Australian Church space before.

‍It really is what one of the Soul Sisters describes as building a garden that's sitting outside of formal structures and that is growing now.” 

To any woman who might be looking for something more from life, or a retreat like this that is designed to connect women with their purpose and faith, Sonja says;

‍“I think the reason to come along to a retreat like this is that it's specifically designed for women in mind who have had lots of different life experiences up until now. Where they may be looking for something a bit different to perhaps other retreats or other faith formation journeys that whilst may have added to their spirituality, perhaps haven't spoken to the current context that we're living in, particularly in the broader Church.‍

‍And again, it's for people of no particular faith tradition as well. I highly encourage all women to come and just experience the uniqueness of the weekend.”

You can learn more about our Women of the Well Gatherings here.