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The Archbishop of York writes:
“Today we lead such busy lives that it is more important than ever to have time apart, encouraging us to take time to rest, recharge our batteries and above all listen to God.
At the very start of his ministry Jesus was driven by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness to pray and listen to God. Throughout his ministry, particularly after hectic periods of preaching and healing, Jesus would withdraw and spend time in prayer with God. It was from that source of prayer that he derived the strength and vision to sustain his ministry.
Often when we come to retreat we arrive weary, very aware of our sins and shortcomings and with a sense of being burnt out. But as we arrive God greets us, tending to our needs and bringing us refreshment and healing. As we spend time apart from the daily bustle of life we begin to rest and open up to God.
One of the ways we encounter God on retreat is through the simple every day things of life which we are usually too busy to enjoy. We have time to relish wholesome meals prepared with great love, the company of our fellow retreatants, a lovely walk or time sitting in the garden, birdsong, and above all silence. In one retreat house I saw a postcard showing a spider’s web on which raindrops glistened as the sun shone through it. It was one of those everyday objects but seen through new eyes as part of the marvel of God’s kingdom.
There are many different kinds of retreat to choose from. Which you choose should depend on your inclination. What helps you relax and engage with God? For some it may be through a creative activity such as painting or pottery; for others, walking in beautiful countryside, reflecting on poetry or one of the Christian saints. Some people will find inspiration and support by talking to others during the retreat. For others, having significant times of silence during a retreat is important as a source of rest and renewal.
So the kind of retreat you choose is up to you. The main thing is to make time for a retreat. It is a life-changing experience - a special time where God welcomes, heals, guides us as well as preparing us for the next stage of the journey. “
In St Anne’s, on the table in the vestibule where leaflets and library books are situated, there is a copy of the Retreat Association’s Programme and Events for over 200 centres in the country. Come into the church sometime, maybe on a weekday morning, and have a look through it. If you would like some advice and help in choosing a retreat, contact the vicar and he will help you choose something suitable for you from it.
For more details visit the Retreat Association Web site by clicking on their logo below.
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