Programme

December 2024

10 December
Tuesday

The Unheard Voices

Leader: Rev Peter Doodes

The Bible stories often leave out the personal experiences of those most involved. In this retreat, Peter will lead us through and interpret some of those stories using the clues within the readings and then we will discuss them in the light of our own experiences. Just what could be behind the story of the Woman at the Well? Why did Jesus seem reluctant to perform his first miracle of Turning water into wine? What is the real lesson behind the story of Ananias curing Saul’s blindness? We will explore these, and others, interspersed with prayer and music, in the peaceful surroundings of Penhurst.

Residential option is not available
Non-residential price: £45.00

11 December
Wednesday

Waiting

Leader: Fiona Bower

Pope Francis said "Advent is a time of waiting for our Lord who will visit us all in our own hearts. The Lord is coming! Let us wait for him!" This retreat explores what it means to wait in our daily lives and the waiting experiences recorded in the Bible. We will use Scripture, poetry and music. There will be plenty of opportunity during the day for quiet reflection.

Residential option is not available
Non-residential price: £45.00

12 December
Thursday

Mary`s Heart

Leader: Vicki Cottingham

Learn from the faith and character of Mary, the mother of Jesus. We will read about Mary`s encounter with the Angel Gabriel, her song of praise and spend some time meditating on God`s Word as Mary did. There will be opportunity during the day for quiet reflection, and to make the most of the beautiful grounds at Penhurst. For those who enjoy knitting or crocheting prayer shawls (or want to learn about prayer shawls) there will be space for this in the afternoon.

Residential option is not available
Non-residential price: £45.00

February 2025

24 February
Monday

Prayer Shawl Workshop

Leader: Vicki Cottingham

Come together to either crochet or knit a prayer shawl, which will be created prayerfully, spending time praying for those who will receive them. Whilst the prayer shawl is our gift to someone else, we will also experience blessing as we take time out to create, pray and spend the day together. Please bring your own yarn, crochet hook or knitting needles. If you don`t have your own, please let us know when you book your place. The day is suitable for both experienced and less experienced crocheters/knitters and will include spiritual reflection as well as time creating together.

Residential option is not available
Non-residential price: £45.00

March 2025

3 March
Monday

Day of Prayer for Mission

Do you have a heart for the nations or do you know mission workers who need prayer support? Come and join us for a day of prayer for the worldwide mission community. No charge but donations towards a light lunch would be appreciated.

Residential option is not available
Non-residential price: TBC

10 March
Monday

Disordered Eating

Leader: Shirley Skrentny

This day provides an opportunity to explore the subject of over-eating, often a source of shame in our lives. It will include biblical teaching about food and eating as well as uncovering common reasons for over-eating and looking at ways forward. There will be opportunities to speak about your own experience in a supportive and safe environment with time for personal reflection.

Residential option is not available
Non-residential price: £45.00

May 2025

12 May
Monday

Creativity, Contemplation, Connection

Leader: Rachel Kiley

Photographer and creativity specialist, Rachel, will gently guide participants through the day, which will include morning reflections and a contemplative smartphone photography walk. There will also be opportunities for creative writing, mark making, silence, self-reflection and sharing together, as we gently connect with our creative selves and new ways of seeing and engaging with the world around us.

Residential option is not available
Non-residential price: £45.00

16 May
Friday

Quiet Garden Day

Leader: Jay Ashworth

Step aside from the busyness of life and into the peace and beauty of this place for a day of reflection and refreshment. The day will be mostly self-guided but will start and end with a reflective prayer time. You will be able to use the art room, summer houses and prayer labyrinth in the orchard. Resources and suggestions for prayer walks and reflections will be available along with refreshments during the day. Please bring your own packed lunch.

Residential option is not available
Non-residential price: £25.00

September 2025

1 September
Monday

Day of Prayer for Mission

Do you have a heart for the nations or do you know mission workers who need prayer support? Come and join us for a day of prayer for the worldwide mission community. No charge but donations towards a light lunch would be appreciated.

Residential option is not available
Non-residential price: TBC

15 September
Monday

Daring to Talk About Grief

Leader: Shirley Skrentny

A space for you to connect with your grief in a supportive environment. The day includes input about common themes of the grieving process, opportunities to speak about your own experience in a small and safe group and time for quiet reflection.

Residential option is not available
Non-residential price: £45.00

23 September
Tuesday

Prayer Shawl Workshop

Leader: Vicki Cottingham

Come together to either crochet or knit a prayer shawl, which will be created prayerfully, spending time praying for those who will receive them. Whilst the prayer shawl is our gift to someone else, we will also experience blessing as we take time out to create, pray and spend the day together. Please bring your own yarn, crochet hook or knitting needles. If you don`t have your own, please let us know when you book your place. The day is suitable for both experienced and less experienced crocheters/knitters and will include spiritual reflection as well as time creating together.

Residential option is not available
Non-residential price: £45.00

October 2025

6 October
Monday

Deeper into God`s Heart, A Renewal Day

Leaders: Marilyn Baker and Tracy Williamson

Blind singer/songwriter Marilyn and her ministry partner Tracy would love you to join them for a powerful day of worship, teaching and time to encounter the God of love. Marilyn`s songs will draw you into His presence and all that she and Tracy share will inspire and encourage you. There will be the opportunity to let go of hurts and burdens and to listen for God`s healing voice.

Residential option is not available
Non-residential price: £15.00

20 October
Monday

Pilgrims of Hope

Leader: Fiona Bower

An invitation to journey together towards a future based on hope, love, mercy and friendship. Taking inspiration from Psalm 84:5 `Blessed are those whose strength is in you, whose hearts are set on pilgrimage` we will explore the calling to be pilgrims in a world where many are in crisis and the example of hope and peace we can bring through the way we walk with God along the journey of our lives.

Residential option is not available
Non-residential price: £45.00

November 2025

3 November
Monday

Creativity, Contemplation, Connection

Leader: Rachel Kiley

Photographer and creativity specialist, Rachel, will gently guide participants through the day, which will include morning reflections and a contemplative smartphone photography walk. There will also be opportunities for creative writing, mark making, silence, self-reflection and sharing together, as we gently connect with our creative selves and new ways of seeing and engaging with the world around us.

Residential option is not available
Non-residential price: £45.00

December 2025

1 December
Monday

Day of Prayer for Mission

Do you have a heart for the nations or do you know mission workers who need prayer support? Come and join us for a day of prayer for the worldwide mission community. No charge but donations towards a light lunch would be appreciated.

Residential option is not available
Non-residential option is not available