Diocesan Retreat November 1st-4th

We are delighted that our retreat conductor will be the Rev Dr Michael Kitchener,

recently arrived from the Borders to live in Argyll. An experienced leader of retreats, he

plans to guide us as ‘Pilgrims into Silence’.

Retreatants will have an opportunity to get to know each other; will then be led in an

exploration of different kinds of silence on Tuesday before moving into an extended

silence over Tuesday evening and Wednesday. On Thursday we will reflect together on

the experience. Michael will be available throughout for individual guidance. The daily

worship pattern of the Cathedral of The Isles will underpin the days. Michael says: ‘This

retreat is about prayer, our relationship with the deep mystery we call ‘God’.’ ‘Our retreat

begins on All Saints’ Day and includes All Soul’s day when we focus on our brothers and

sisters in Christ who have already died. What does it mean to say that we are still one

body with them, our unity in prayer unbroken? The silence of death throws us into the

dark, and perhaps gives us a clue to the nature of all prayer – and a clue to the grounding

of Christian and human community.’

The Retreat will take place at The College of the Holy Spirit, from Monday November

1st – Thursday 4th, arriving Monday and departing after lunch on Thursday. People are

welcome to arrive in time for evening prayer at 5.15pm or to check in before dinner at

7pm. Bookings should be made direct with The College with a deposit of £25. Full

payment, balance of £125, to be made by 30th September. If you want to be sure of a

place, contact David Todd on 01475 530353. Financial help will be available from the

Diocese if necessary.