Weekend Retreat – July 2009

“Encouragement”

There was a Levite of Cypriot origin called Joseph, whom the apostles surnamed Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”). He owned a piece of land and he sold it and brought the money and presented it to the apostles. (Acts 4: 36-37)

All around us the world is changing – and uncertainty and challenge abound. What will the future bring? And what, in the face of all of this, can we possibly do to make a difference?

This short weekend retreat will focus on the role of ‘encouragement’ – and the difference it makes within family life, church life and life in the workplace.  Encouragement is something we all need – and, importantly, is something we can all give to others.

In a series of short reflections on the life and witness of the Apostle Barnabas (called by his fellow apostles the ‘son of encouragement’), Fr Alan Gyle will explore encouragement’s transformative effects, and point to places we can use it to change our experience of life and our relationships  with others.

The retreat will include times of silence, shared meals and the opportunity to pray together in the peaceful surroundings of Ivy House, the retreat centre of the Community of St Denys in Warminster.  The accommodation is comfortable, the grounds peaceful and the food good.  You will be very welcome!

Ivy House, Warminster

Ivy House, the Retreat Centre of the Community of St Denys, comprises two conjoined 18^th century houses ‘Ivy House’ and ‘St Denys Cottage’ situated a short walk from the centre of Warminster, Wiltshire.

The accommodation is simple and comfortable, and the chapel, library and gardens provide ample space for quiet and solitude.

Much of the food is homemade, homegrown and organic, and between the regular mealtimes snacks and hot drinks are available.

Timetable:
Arrive in time for tea at 16:00 on Friday 10^th July 2009
Depart after lunch on Sunday 12^th July 2009

Cost:
The cost of £120 (cheques payable to “St Paul’s Knightsbridge”) includes all meals & accommodation.  A deposit of £30 is payable on booking; the balance of £90 is payable at the beginning of June.

Getting there:
By car: Warminster is about 100 miles from London, down the M3. The journey should take between two and three hours. Plan your route online at www.theaa.com

By Rail: You can travel from Paddington via Bath Spa or from Waterloo via Salisbury. The journey takes just over two hours and tickets can be booked online at www.nationalrail.co.uk