St. Thomas-based creative writing organization “Pass the Word VI” will host its first session of 2026 on Tuesday from 6 p.m.-8 p.m. at Mystic Brew.
Titled “Standing at the Waterline,” the workshop will be facilitated by guest writer Angela Vaughn-Likewise and is designed to provide a reflective, community-oriented space for writers of all levels.
Founded and curated by Katie Landry, the monthly workshop series began in 2023 with the intention of creating a consistent outlet for communal processing and creative expression. Landry was inspired after attending a writing-for-healing workshop led by Anne Nayer and Rosalyn Rossignol, where she witnessed participants engage with grief, trauma, and personal history through writing. “I recognize that what we don’t process outside of our bodies gets stored inside. Every month, I try to organize one or two workshops so the community has a structured opportunity to process difficult experiences in a supportive environment,” Landry said.
The January theme, “Standing at the Waterline,” refers to the transitional space between past and future, a concept Landry hopes will resonate as participants enter the new year. “We want people to feel that pause, and to honor it. Not everything in life is clearly defined. This is about allowing that undefined space to exist together,” Landry said.
Pass the Word VI emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity. No prior writing experience is required, and attendees are not expected to share their work. “All you have to do is come. The goal is to be in community,” Landry said.
Landry selects a diverse rotation of guest facilitators each month, prioritizing those who value community-building and understand the therapeutic potential of writing. Looking ahead, Landry and her team have planned several new formats for 2026, including archival writing workshops led by co-host Sara Kirkpatrick, which will use historical documents and photographs as creative prompts. Additionally, there will be outdoor writing workshops, led by co-host Jahfiyah Gumbs, which will combine nature exploration with writing practice.
Interested participants are encouraged to bring a notebook and a pen. As Landry emphasized, the series aims to foster what friend and collaborator Holly Nicole calls “a brave space, if not always a safe one.”
Pass the Word VI also hosts regular open mic nights and youth writing workshops, reinforcing its role as a hub for literary arts and community connection on St. Thomas.
For more information, follow Pass the Word VI on Facebook and Instagram for updates and future event details.
Upcoming January 2026 Events:
Jan. 6, 6–8 p.m.: “Standing at the Waterline with Angela Vaughn-Likewise” at Mystic Brew
Jan. 11, 3–5 p.m.: “In the Beginning was the Word” with Anne Nayer
Jan. 13, 7–9 p.m.: Community Storytelling Open Mic, “Second Chances” at Hotel 1829
Jan. 20, 6–8 p.m.: Youth VIBE Workshop & Open Mic at Barefoot Buddha
Jan. 22, 7–9 p.m.: Spoken Word Open Mic, “Reclaiming Ourselves” at Cutlass & Cane
