Click Here to Download a Copy of Canterbury Epistle 5.1
A Word From the Executive Director
Chalmers Morse
Life sometimes seems scary, especially following the pandemic or watching the news. Flip through the channels, and you will find chaos, strife, and very little good news. But at Canterbury, there is good news, especially when you arrive and realize you are in a “special” place, a tranquil place where you can forget the troubles of the world, even if just for a few days.
The fear of the unknown makes people rethink their choices and goals, which happens to us all. As time passes, whether for a few days, months, or years, our vision can change. Our vision of the world and life matters, and so do our goals.
Like everyone else, I have questions about many aspects of my life, of my existence, and consequently about my future. I never stopped wanting to achieve something big that could change the whole world, some amazing adventure that would be the one thing that would make a real difference. As time passes, I have realized that life is one big adventure and that what I do matters to the people around me. I realized, too, that life is not perfect and that we will all go through our peaks and valleys. However, with faith, perseverance, and hard work, the issues we all deal with will eventually be solved. My simple vision has always given me motivation. Motivation to believe in me and accomplish the things I set my sights on.
As I grew up, I saw what the world looked like, the sacrifices made, and the things no one could control. If I wanted something, I had to work hard, and with life’s everyday challenges, everything matters.
At Canterbury, we want to make a difference in your life by providing a sanctuary where you can explore your vision of life and the world. It is where you can explore your spirituality, renew your relationship with God, and learn what matters.
It All Begins Before the Guests Arrive
Preparation starts with conversations with our Sales and Conference Services team well before arrival day. During those conversations, plans are made, ranging from meeting space requirements and set-up to rooming lists, food allergies, and any special requests or activities like our ropes course.
Regarding food allergies, Canterbury takes them very seriously, and our culinary team takes extraordinary care in meal preparation, making menu modifications as needed. “We are meticulous in ensuring we maximize our guest’s experience,” states Executive Chef Cass O’Donnell. “We try to exceed our guests’ expectations.”
Enhancing the Dining Experience
The dining experience is another way to highlight the unparalleled service of the Canterbury Conference Center. All meals are served buffet style, and the menu varies daily. Sections can include entrees of seafood, beef, pork, and poultry and vegetarian or vegan options. “There is also always a salad bar at both Lunch and Dinner,” Chef Cass says.
Caring About our Guests
It’s in the details that make a difference, which comes naturally due to the small, intimate size of Canterbury. Relationships develop between our guests and staff that allow guests to experience the uniquely Canterbury hospitality.
Caring for our guests is crucial, and staff members take great pride in ensuring that our guests are happy and satisfied. It is then that staff members feel like they’re part of something special and that their efforts matter. The Canterbury staff makes every effort to exceed expectations from the many rave guest reviews.
From the Canterbury Kitchen
SQUASH BISQUE
| This is a quick and easy recipe for squash bisque, which will indeed be a hit. |
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Ingredients:
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| Instructions: In a large pot, add oil, and begin to sweat your squash, carrots, onion, and garlic for 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Add salt, coconut milk, vegetable stock, and curry powder. Slow boil for an hour or until vegetables is fork-tender. Carefully transfer to a blender and blend to desired consistency. Pass-thru a chinois if a high-powered blender is unavailable. It may be served hot or chilled. |
Holy Week Schedule
Easter is the highest and holiest celebration of the church year as we commemorate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Services will be held overlooking beautiful Lake Gem, joining the Church of the Incarnation congregation. Together we will raise our voices in prayer and song amid God’s beautiful creation.
Maundy Thursday Service – 6:30 PM (with foot washing) St. Augustine’s Chapel
Good Friday – April 7 Stations of the Cross Nature Walk – 5:30 PM
We offer our guests a twist on the devotional walk of the classic Stations of the Cross. Led by the Reverend Tom Phillips, the walk starts on the terrace of the Folwell Center (main building). Each of the 14 stations will be depicted along the “Canterbury Trail” around Lake Gem. The walk is easy. However, there may be some mobility limitations.
Worship Service – 6:30 PM – St.Augustine’s Chapel
Rotary Pancake Breakfast – Saturday, April 8 – 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
The Rotary Club of Oviedo has been meeting at Canterbury for more than 30 years. Canterbury is honored to help support their mission, “Service above self.” Join in the fun with live music with Mr. Harley and a visit from the Easter Bunny.
Easter – April 9
Services – 9:00AM and 11:00AM
Join the members of the Church of the Incarnation on the Lakeside Terrace at Canterbury overlooking beautiful Lake Gem as we celebrate Easter. It is a time to unite and raise our voices in prayer and song amid God’s beautiful creation. (In case of inclement weather, the services will be held in St.Augustine’s Chapel)
Easter Egg Hunt
At 10:00 am, a traditional Easter Egg Hunt will be held. Children of all ages are welcome to join in the fun.
From our Chaplain
The Reverend Tom Phillips
As we continue through Lent and Easter, I’m reminded of the importance of a regular season of reflection and preparation. God took the Israelites into the wilderness directly after exiting Egypt. The wilderness for Israel was an opportunity to unlearn the habits and rhythms of Egypt and a chance to orient new life around the holy (set apart) way of the Lord.
Have you heard the Lord call you into a wilderness place lately? How long has it been since you’ve asked God what parts of your life he’d like to reform and re-shape? I’ve recently been encouraged to look back and look at my schedule and request new and exciting questions. Instead of asking, “what am I doing today” I’m asking, “what is this day doing to me?”
Every day we’re becoming something; sometimes, it’s helpful to ask the Lord to show you whom you’re becoming and ask Him where the reorientation needs to occur. May you experience what the author of Hebrews calls the peaceful fruits of righteousness in the process.
Upcoming events
Mother’s Day Brunch May 11, 2023
Mark your calendars and celebrate Mom with us. Enjoy a delicious Champagne Brunch from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm. Brunch will be served in the Overlook Dining Room and Terrace, overlooking Beautiful Lake Gem.
$35 per adult / $10 per child (ages 5-14) / under 4 are free
How to support Canterbury
Click the link below to find out how to give and help us to bless others:
https://canterburyretreat.org