The retreat begins on Friday at 4:30pm (arrivals from 3:00pm) with an orientation talk followed by a period of silent meditation before dinner. Short talks across the weekend will be balanced with regular periods of sitting meditation, walking meditation, time for private reflection, enjoyment of the beautiful grounds and opportunities for short private meetings with the retreat leader, Chris Whittington. The retreat will finish after lunch and a closing conversation on Sunday.
The essence of prayer is radically simple. But it can be difficult for us to release ourselves into its healing simplicity.
Surrendering our resistances, letting go of all that gives rise to the sense of separateness, we come into the open pastures of belonging where we are one with each other and all creation, to rest in the oneness of God.
The central focus of this experiential retreat will be silent meditation practice. We will explore the path of interior surrender, of releasing into and resting in God through our deepening stillness and shared silence.
We will consider the subtle challenges we meet in something so simple as being still, the interior skills that develop as our practice develops, and how silence and self-forgetfulness help us to be places of peace in the world.
We expect this event will be popular and numbers are limited to 30 people so please book early if you would like to ensure a place.
Retreat cost to be confirmed.
Please email the guest office, to request a booking form and for further information: guests@mirfield.org.uk
Retreat leader
Chris Whittington is the founder of the School of Contemplative Life. He was introduced to contemplative practice at the age of 19 during a period of formation at the Benedictine monastery of Prinknash Abbey, after which he studied at the Dalai Lama’s monastery in India. Chris regularly delivers talks, workshops and retreats across the UK.