Welcome to the Autumn Quiet Day
Saturday 18 November 10am until 4.30pm
at
St Mary's Convent, Wantage
A day retreat for those who want to step out of their normal routine, to rest, pray and settle into beautiful surroundings.
led by Michelle Eyre, chief prayer officer, Discovering Prayer
'Lovely! This is just what I needed. A place to rest, think, pray, run and be silent. The quality of the silence and prayerful acceptance has been so refreshing - and the sisters are wonderful!'
-Revd Katie Windle
What's the programme?
Where offering a full programme to guide you to a retreat experience that you can fully engage in.
You have the option to choose from the following activities:
10.00
Welcome and coffee
10.15
Acclimatisation!
An overview of the surroundings and the programme, so you know how to get the most out of your retreat.
11.00
Guided Prayer Time
A guided Bible-based meditation to take you into retreat and suggested reading material.
12:00
Exploring Daily Office
Answering questions about the type of corporate prayers used by the sisters, so that you are confident and comfortable taking part in the service.
12.25pm
Sext
A short church service with the sisters. ‘Sext’ means six since this service was traditionally at the sixth hour (12 noon)
12.50pm
Lunch, in Silence
Many people find it helpful to have a book with them to read, and there are good libraries to choose from
2.00pm
Guided Prayer Time
A Bible-based guided meditation to take you into retreat, with suggested reading material
4.00pm
Tea and cake
Tea and a chance to catch up on how the day went.
5.00pm
Optional Extra - Vespers
A short church service with the sisters (vespers the means evening and is traditionally held at sunset)
5.30pm Close
'The retreat was very well led.I found that the lack of pressure to do or be anything or anyone was very helpful. I am encouraged to seek more of this style of prayer'
-David Hitchcox
What's included?
An optional programme of prayer and relaxation from 10 am until 4.30 pm
Lunch and refreshments at St Mary's Convent - lunch, tea and coffee
Access to the three chapels, art room, libraries, beautiful grounds, and wonderful walks
Access to the art room and facilities.
An audio track sent to you before you go, with helpful information about how to prepare for a retreat and what to expect
A short talk at the beginning of the day with suggestions for how to use the time
Written resources to use throughout the day
Guided meditations on the Gospel of John
The option to join in with the sisters in their chapel when they have their short church services
The option to stay longer and attend the service of Vespers which finishes at 6 pm.
'A gentle introduction to the retreat experience.'
- Sandie Capel
Who is it for?
Friends and members of Discovering Prayer; especially if you would like to rest a while.
Those who'd like to find out what it's like going to a convent for a retreat, and would prefer to do so in the company of friends.
Those who are trying out a retreat for the first time.
Those who want to go on a retreat but don't have the time for an overnight stay.
You do not need to be a Christian to attend - you are welcome just how you are.
There are beautiful surroundings, wonderful walks, deep baths, and plenty of silence for everyone to enjoy.
You can soak in the silence and take part in as many or as few of the activities as you like.
'I found it a very welcome chance to focus on God's love and listen and pray.
Thank you'
- Coral Lancaster
How it works
- Book your place online (if you would prefer to pay by cheque please email us, we will reserve a place once payment has been received).
- You'll receive a confirmation email about the event.
- Two weeks before the event you will receive an email with a link to an online audio about how to prepare for a retreat. It'll also contain information on how to get there and what you might like to bring with you.
- On the day we'll look forward to meeting you!
Some notes
- Payment is non-refundable, although you may swap your place with someone else if you are not able to come. If this happens, please let me know, so that we can send information about the event to those who are attending.
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We charge in order to be sustainable and rely on the generosity of friends who take part to maintain our income. If you are unable to pay, please contact us, we have a small bursary fund.
About Michelle Eyre
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Michelle Eyre is the Chief Prayer Officer of Discovering Prayer. She’s had an unusual career – a dancer, a nun, an occupational therapist, and a manager. Michelle is an oblate of the Anglican Community of St Mary the Virgin, Wantage and has spent over 20 years learning to incorporate some of what she learned when she tried out being a nun into her daily life. She wants to share the treasure that she learned in a community in a way that is accessible to everyone who would like to explore prayer.