On the first day of 2008 The Haven marked the beginning of its 25th anniversary year with a celebration to honour Bennet Wong and Jock McKeen, the founders of the Haven. Following hard on the heels of a busy 2007 Reflections, the event was attended by more than 200 people.

The Haven's Executive Director John Shields presided over three special ceremonies. First, the Phoenix Auditorium was officially renamed as The Wong and McKeen Phoenix Auditorium. (When Ben and Jock were asked earlier in the year what they thought the auditorium should be called, Ben answered, "That's easy. The Wong Auditorium!").

Second, Ben and Jock were made The Haven's first Emeritus members of faculty, in recognition of their fundamental role in The Haven's work of education and training.

Third, a set of stained glass windows by Robin Kelley were unveiled. The windows depict the Mizpah pendants Ben and Jock wear around their necks. These were given to them 20 years ago by Father Jack Sproule. They symbolize a bond between two people, each person wearing one half of the pendant. The stained glass is very rich in other symbolism too – we invite you to take a close look next time you are at The Haven.

Other speakers were Peggie Merlin, Gisela Sartori on behalf of Gerry and Judith Fewster, David Raithby, and Dick Sass. There were also performances by Denise Goldbeck, Jane Geesman, Laurie Kelley and Scott Poole, Marlise McCormick and Bob Buckley.

These were followed by an open-mic session in which a number of people expressed their gratitude and love for Ben and Jock, who have touched so many lives over the years. With Ernie and Cathy McNally acting as MCs, the entire event was full of humour and kindness.

If you would like to post your own tribute to Ben and Jock, please visit the Blog we have created.

A warm thank you to everybody who attended the event and all of you who were involved in organizing it. And especially, thanks to you, Ben and Jock.

We have created a Blog where you can post your own tribute to Ben and Jock and read messages to them from people around the world.

Dancing Hearts,
by Sam Mak & Mike Meegan.