Rest in God
Step out of constant activity and receive the truth that our worth does not depend upon productivity.
Come away and rest awhile
Retreats and Quiet Days
Time set apart from ordinary demands, so that we may rest in God, listen more deeply and return renewed.
← Back to Christian BasicsSacred time apart
Making room for God
A Christian retreat is not an escape from life. It is a deliberate pause in which we bring our life honestly into God’s presence.
Jesus repeatedly withdrew to quiet places to pray. Christians have followed his example in deserts, monasteries, retreat houses, churches and ordinary homes.
A retreat may last a few hours or several days. It can include worship, Scripture, guided reflections, silence, walking, rest and conversation with a spiritual guide.
“Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while.”Mark 6.31
Why make a retreat?
Rest, listen and begin again
Retreats create the conditions in which our attention can return to God.
Listen more deeply
Silence helps us notice the movements, questions and invitations that ordinary noise can conceal.
Return renewed
Prayerful distance can restore perspective, clarify priorities and give courage for faithful daily living.
What happens?
A gentle rhythm, not a test
No special expertise is required. A retreat normally provides a simple structure while leaving generous space to pray and rest in the way that is most helpful.
Common prayer
Daily offices, Mass or other worship hold the time together.
Daily offices, Mass or other worship hold the time together.
Guided reflection
Short addresses or Scripture passages offer a starting point for prayer.
Short addresses or Scripture passages offer a starting point for prayer.
Personal space
Quiet time may be used for walking, reading, journalling, resting or simply being still.
Quiet time may be used for walking, reading, journalling, resting or simply being still.
Companionship
Meals and conversation remind us that solitude need not mean isolation.
Meals and conversation remind us that solitude need not mean isolation.
Parish opportunities
From a single day to a longer retreat
The parish normally offers Quiet Days during Advent and Lent, alongside a longer retreat and pilgrimage.
A typical parish Quiet Day
The exact programme varies, but a day may follow this gentle pattern:
- Arrival and coffee
- Morning Prayer and first address
- Personal prayer and reflection
- Angelus and Mass
- Lunch
- Personal time, Rosary or healing ministry
- Personal prayer or Holy Hour
- Evening Prayer and Benediction
The longer Walsingham retreat
The residential parish visit to the Shrine allows several days for Morning and Evening Prayer, Mass, the Rosary, healing and reconciliation, quiet time and fellowship.
The programme usually includes the Holy House, Shrine Church and chapels, with time to walk the Holy Mile and visit the Roman Catholic Shrine. Some elements are optional, allowing each pilgrim appropriate space.
You may be wondering
Retreats are for ordinary Christians
Must I be silent?
There are usually periods of quiet rather than constant silence. The programme will make expectations clear.
What should I bring?
A Bible, notebook, suitable outdoor clothing and any personal medication are normally enough.
What if I am new?
You will be guided through the day. It is acceptable to feel unsure, become distracted or simply need rest.
What about the cost?
We want cost not to exclude anyone. Please ask confidentially if financial help would make attendance possible.
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