A retreat is your chance to step aside from life for a while, to rest and just 'be' in a welcoming, peaceful place.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Retreat?
A retreat is exactly what it sounds like - the chance to step aside from life for a while, to rest and just 'be' in a welcoming, peaceful place.
Who goes on retreat?
Retreats are for ordinary people at any time in their lives. There are no expectations on anyone going on retreat and you don't need to be a churchgoer.
Can I do my own thing
on a retreat?
Yes, many retreat houses welcome people who wish to spend some time alone.
Is a retreat right for me?
Do you:
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Wish for some quiet time?
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Want a weekend to develop your interests?
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Long to know more about prayer?
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Need some time for reflection away from work or family?
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Want to deepen your spiritual life?
Then a retreat might be just for you.
What kind of place is
a retreat house?
Retreat houses offer a warm welcome to all.
Most are in beautiful buildings with gardens. They vary in size from small (1 or 2 rooms) to large (for over 100 people). Some have libraries, art rooms and prayer rooms that are available to use.
Overnight accommodation is availible in most, from simple rooms with shared facilities to en suite rooms with modern facilities.
The majority of retreat houses provide wholesome, home cooked food and can accommodate special dietary needs (with advanced notice).
An increasing number of retreat houses have facilities for those with disabilities.
What happens on a retreat?
Retreats offer the opportunity to find space, reflect, pray and worship in peaceful and comfortable surroundings.
There are a wide variety of retreats to choose from including retreats for beginners, ones with no formalised structured and themed retreats.
Some example of previous themes include:
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painting and gardening
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coping with change
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stress management
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relationship breakdown
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technical skills like PowerPoint or photography
Quiet Day FAQs
What is a Quiet Day?
A quiet day is a gentle introduction for newcomers to retreats. It is also a way of going on retreat for one day.
Where can I go on a quiet day?
Quiet days take place across the country in a variety of places such as retreat houses, churches and village halls.
Who goes on a quiet day?
Quiet days are open to anyone and may be particularly helpful if:
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you have never been on a retreat before or
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you are limited for time.
The number of people attending a quiet day varies but is usually fairly small - between 6 and 25 people.
What happens on a quiet day?
Quiet days are usually from around 10 to 4pm. You will usually be given a programme at the start of the day by the quiet day leader.
During the day there will be:
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input from the leader on the theme they have chosen.
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time for you to reflect on your own, in a way that feels helpful to you (reading, walking, resting etc).
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refreshment breaks.
At the end of the day there will often be the chance to worship and share your experiences with the group.
Where can I find a quiet day?
We can help you find a quiet day in your area. Just contact us.
You can also contact your local retreat house for details of quiet days in your area.
A Quiet Day pack is available with resources for how to plan a quiet day.
Spiritual Direction FAQs
What is Spiritual Direction?
Spiritual direction is a way of meeting with someone - a spiritual director or guide - to share your thoughts and reflections about your faith.
You may experience spiritual direction while on retreat.
You may also meet with a spiritual director regularly throughout the year.
You will usually meet with your spiritual director every 6-8 weeks for about an hour.
Who is spiritual direction for?
Spiritual direction is open to anyone wishing to explore their faith journey.
There are no expectations or special requirements, just an interest in sharing your story with another person.
Who is a Spiritual Director?
A spiritual director or companion is someone who has specific skills in:
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listening
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helping you to reflect more deeply about your faith journey
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helping you to reflect on your relationship with God.
Many spiritual directors have received specific training in spiritual direction.
Spiritual directors represent a wide variety of ages, denominations and traditions. They may be ordained, from a religious order or they may be a lay person (not ordained).
The choice of who you meet with as your spiritual director is up to you.
The most important thing is to find a spiritual director with whom you feel comfortable.
How do I find a spiritual director?
If you would like to find a spiritual director or have any further questions about it, please contact us.
Is there a charge for spiritual direction?
Directors may ask for a donation for their time and suggest a suitable fee.
Concessions are usually made for unwaged.