​Bervie W.I. learns about local dentist’s mission trip to Sri Lanka

The Bervie Women’s Institute met at the Bervie United Church, Wednesday evening, with five members from the Purple Grove Women’s Institute as guests. President Bev Berndt welcomed everyone and opened with the usual openings followed by the land acknowledgement.

The theme was “International Affairs.” Convener Betty Jean White introduced Dr. Miranda Deller-Quinn who spoke about her dentistry work when she participated in a two-week medical mission trip to Sri Lanka last winter. There were 16 in the group which included four doctors (including Dr. Gary Gurbin and Dr. Damian Gunaratne of Kincardine), three nurses, dentist Deller-Quinn, one pharmacist and other support personnel.

Deller-Quinn did mostly extractions, dealt with tooth infections, cleaning and check-ups, while the doctors dealt with medical issues. The group delivered lots of medications and supplies for those in need, and local Lions Clubs sent along 800 pairs of reading glasses, and some sunglasses. The mission trip also included some time at a local orphanage where the group funds scholarships for the orphan children over age 16 for further education.

The Roll Call was answered by nine members and five visitors on a fact about Sri Lanka. Betty Jean thanked Miranda and presented her with a mission donation and a gift.

Betty Jean read the minutes of the last meeting and Islay Eby gave the treasurer’s report. Sandra MacDonald gave the Sunshine report. The Grey Bruce Area Convention is Oct. 2 at Williamsford and several will attend. A donation will be made to “Water First” whose representative is the guest speaker at the Bruce District Rally in Chepstow, Oct. 23. Silent auction items for both the Area Convention and District Rally will be donated by Sandra.

A delicious lunch was provided by Mildred Griffith, Diane Wilson and Betty Anne Thompson, and the meeting closed with the closing ode and God Save the King.

The next meeting will be a joint meeting with the Bervie United Church Women at the church, Tuesday, Oct. 14, at 1:30 p.m., with the theme, “Recycling.”