The 2009 Annual Gathering is only a few days away and in spite of the difficult economic climate, we have more registrations than in any Gathering since 2004! Perhaps it is not in spite of the economic times, but because of the challenges we are facing in the global world that the labyrinth is drawing us together in such numbers. We gather to explore, share and be inspired. We gather to support one another and to seek opportunities to experience transformation. We find joy and solace in the company of dear friends and sacred paths. So, I say, of course our registrations are many. This is precisely why we gather each year. 

In Oregon, we will be moving “Into the Labyrinth - Creating Space for Spirit” as our theme, and the walls of Edgefield will be bursting with the spirit of the labyrinth, the spirit of community, and the spirit of TLS.

I invite you to review the Gathering pages on the TLS website to familiarize yourself with the activities. On these Gathering pages you can also find and download the final schedule and a list of the workshop schedules with descriptions and locations. This preparation at the threshold will offer ease as we transition into the Gathering space. Excitement is in the air. Final details and demands create a flurry of activity. The Northwest Region Gathering Team and Labyrinth Network Northwest are facing sleepless nights in their desire to host a flawless Gathering. I know from experience that, once the members begin to arrive, one must simply step aside and let the Gathering take on an energy of its own. Plan as we might, the planners can lead us into the space and hold that space, but the spirit of the Gathering will flow on its own.

With so many attendees, there are several volunteer opportunities for members, from greeting people as they arrive, helping to set-up vendor area or Silent Auction or in the TLS Store, or introducing the workshop speaker in a workshop you plan to attend. All of these opportunities offer ways to interact with other members and be involved. If you are willing to help in any way, large or small, please email DC Donohue, Volunteer Coordinator of the 2009 Annual Gathering.

I look forward to seeing many friends, old and new, as we step together “Into the Labyrinth” the first full week of October.

Lisa Gidlow Moriarty, TLS President

The 2009 Gathering Planning Team is ready to welcome you to Oregon! We have a few reminders as you are busy preparing and packing:

1. Remember to pack a swim suit if you plan on using the salt water soaking pool at the Edgefield spa or the pool at the Best Western.
2. If you are staying at the Best Western and plan to use their shuttle service for airport transportation, please note they require 24-hour notice for shuttle reservation. Call: 866-312-0073 for shuttle reservations.
3. Finally, on Thursday afternoon, there will be free art and history tours of Edgefield at 2:00 pm and 3:00 pm. These are limited to 20 people, so plan on promptness if you hope to take the tour.

Travel well. What fun we will have together at TLS Gathering 2009!
 

Sincerely,

Your 2009 TLS Gathering Team