Spring events 2018

Silence in the Desert: one-day silent retreat

Saturday 17th February, 10.00am-3.30pm

At the beginning of Lent we may think of Jesus
going into the desert following his baptism. With no
company, no comforts, no distractions, he
journeyed in silence, confronted by the reality of
who he was.

This day is a short taste of silence and also a brief
stay in the desert, taking some guidance from
Christians who have been in the desert – literally or
metaphorically.

The day will begin with an introduction to the
silence, prayer together and some guidance on how
to spend the time in silence. The whole day will
then be silent until we gather for final prayers at the
end of the afternoon.

We will also share a simple lunch together silently.

This will be a chance to sample what it’s like to be
in silence individually and to be sharing the silence.
It will hopefully be a good way to begin the Lent
season and may shape your Lent this year.

Suggested donation: £10.

Booking

To book a place online visit the booking form.

Praying Without Words*

Saturday 10th March, 10.00am to 1.30pm

Sometimes praying can be difficult or feel impossible. When we have no words, how do we pray?

Depending on our background, our ways of praying can be exclusively word-based and we can even be afraid we are not praying ‘properly’ or in the ‘right’ words.

Christian tradition includes forms of prayer that are non-word-based, reflecting that there are different ways we can communicate with God and God with us – not all involving words.

On this morning we will explore some practical ways of praying without words, primarily using Sybil McBeth’s Praying in Color. This uses doodling to pray without having to use sentences at all but just a pen and paper. It involves not just the mind but the body in a physical activity. And it uses creativity without needing any art skills. It’s a way of praying that many people have found helpful.

If you’re looking for another way of prayer to add to your vocabulary, or you are looking for a more helpful way to pray on your own, this morning is designed for you.

The morning will feature workshop sessions with space to use what we learn in personal prayer. It will be suitable for adults and older children.

Materials will be provided but feel free to bring your favourite coloured pencils or pens.

The morning will end with home-cooked lunch together.

Suggested donation is £10.

Booking

To book a place online visit the booking form.

Holy Saturday Sabbath Rest

Saturday 31st March, 10.00am to 1.30pm

Following the drama of Holy Week and the horror of Good Friday, everything becomes quiet on Saturday – the Jewish sabbath.

Jesus said: It is finished. The work completed and then the day of rest.

While we await the triumphant joy of Easter Day, this morning offers a space to be quiet and simply be.

There will be prayer together, reflections on ‘Sabbath rest’ and individual quiet time.

At the end of the morning we will share a simple lunch together.

Suggested donation: £8

Booking

To book a place online visit the booking form.