… it has given me the opportunity to rest and relax in the midst of a very busy and stressful time. It has also given me space to refocus on my own relationship with God and to reflect on future challenges in my home life and ministry. Three words to sum up visit – peaceful, gentle, cosseting.
It was great to have the opportunity to sleep, read, eat well, talk to someone, walk and use the time for ‘me’ and how I wanted. Three words to sum up my visit – relaxing, soothing, restorative. Accommodation and facilities - beautifully clean and welcoming and more than adequate – loved the flowers in my room. Grounds and site – beautiful and lovely to be allowed to wander around freely. Worship – fine; library – good; workshops – didn’t attend as I needed space from people. 1:1 time – massage was fantastic – really helped me to relax at the beginning of the week; sessions with Sarah were extremely helpful in giving me a way forward in my thinking and planning. Food – wonderful, very spoiling, much appreciated; hospitality – welcoming and friendly without being intrusive; videos – didn’t attend. Other – just a thank you to the whole team for enabling me to have such a ‘treaty’ few days for ‘me’.
I was able to take time away from work to reflect, pray, read, sleep. I would have found it more helpful if I had been able to talk though some issues [Webeditor: we certainly expect to provide this - obviously fell through our safety net - apologies].. Three words to sum up my visit – quiet, restful, reflective. Accommodation and facilities – excellent. Grounds and site beautifully cared for. Worship – simple and unfussy – just what I needed. Library – fine. Focusing and Dreams workshop – helpful. 1:1 talk – not very helpful – I felt unable to open up – my fault. Food – excellent. Hospitality – excellent. Videos – excellent.
I was given time to ‘be’ – there were no demands on me. I was able to sleep all day. I turned up late for meals and was still welcomed! The workshops were there and I attended two. I deeply appreciated the ‘no shop’ and the volunteers who insisted on it. I felt cherished and protected. I would have found it more helpful if it was longer! However, I am ready to return and wish to do so gently. Three words to sum up my visit – long over due!! I did find the bed very narrow and hard, which has not helped good sleep. The grounds and site are beautiful. I loved the prayer walk and eventually found St. Francis, wonderfully hidden. I attended 5 p.m. and Compline and Eucharist – all gentle and inclusive. I felt comforted sitting in the medieval chapel. 8 a.m - last day – so good to know the prayer of the Community even as I slept and rested. Delighted to find a new book I’d been recommended in the Library. Workshops – Focusing and Dreams – I was privileged to have 1:1 with Daphne so had done some of this and then loved making a mess with paints. Light and Colour – BRILLIANT, such fun and amazed by results. She has been so kind. 1:1 – enormously helpful and revealing about dreams. Massage – Jan – another highlight, sensitive and excellent. Food – delicious. I’m sure much thought goes into suppliers but I was surprised to see ‘Tesco [Webeditor: only because they were the only deliveries to our area at that time, but have now changed to Sainsbury as they have extended their geographical range]’. Hospitality – Sue at Fat Pigeon. Those of Community we saw and the volunteers – all so kind, patient, considerate, felt so loved and looked after. Vidoes – enjoyed the choosing, fun, especially popcorn! Great evenings. Meeting others who respected silence and peace and having to find topics of conversation not ‘shop’!! The beauty of the countryside and the walk with Jim.
There was no pressure or expectation to do things, but people were around and attentive to my needs. A good balance of free time and optional activities. The staff and volunteers were so committed and caring. It would have been more enjoyable if there was a room for listening to music, there had been spiritual direction available [Webeditor: there was - not sure why this didn't happen - we do rely on people being clear about their needs and we will do our best to respond] or someone with experience as a work consultant, there had been books/recordings of Bible talks, I had been able to have a good night’s sleep on a comfortable bed. Three words sum up my visit – relaxing, nurturing, fun. Accommodation and facilities – very good except the bed – too hard and narrow – I had backache. Washrooms and tea/coffee facilities everywhere – very high standard. I especially liked the sofas in the quiet room. Grounds and site were beautiful, well-kept, peaceful. I especially liked the hidden dells, etc. St Anthony and St. Francis, Benedict. Worship was gentle and thoughtful, both chapels are delightful, quiet music in background might be nice. Library had good mixture of books – I’d like more on leadership. Workshops – focusing and dreams – interesting, I would have liked it more rooted in scripture and prayer. Light and Colour – wonderful playtime. I can’t wait to try the techniques again at home. Massage was so relaxing, especially after Jacuzzi. Talk – a good listener. I would have appreciated more questions, spiritual direction, prayer. Food – excellent – good menu and fresh ingredients. Hospitality – thoughtful and caring. Videos – O.K. chocs and popcorn made it friendly. Thank you!
Great to be in an unpressurised relaxing environment with freedom to choose what to do or not to do. The 1:1 sessions seemed to be based on listening. I do not expect you to offer counselling but it would have been helpful to talk through issues with someone. I was very surprised not to be offered prayer at the end of the session. [Webeditor: as above - we expect to do better than this, but are clear that prayer ministry is not our style.] Three words sum up my visit – relaxing, refreshing, restful. Good facilities and accommodation. Pig Pen was excellent. Sheldon is in a lovely setting – I enjoyed the opportunity to walk around the grounds. I only attended evening prayer once and communion. I am not always good at making use of long periods of silence. Gentle touch workshop – I was unsure about taking part in this but went along and at the end felt it was worthwhile. 1:1 – I didn’t find the session very helpful. But I was not under particular stress. I had a massage – my first ever – didn’t feel any benefit from it. Not sure I would repeat the experience. Food was of good quality, plenty of variety, enjoyed all the meals. Hospitality – felt very well served. No need to do anything – was told off for clearing my own used plates to be washed. Videos – democratically chosen, watched both – not perhaps films I would normally watch (don’t tend to watch many films anyway), but a relaxing evening.
In the 1:1 sessions neither Carl nor Sarah offered to pray for us. While some people maybe did just want to talk, I would have valued more the opportunity to have someone pray with me. I find it rather surprising that this never happened. Accommodation and facilities – the bathroom (en suite) was so lovely – not just white utilitarian tiling, but green ones and fishy ones; the grab handle things were pretty decorative ones; and the towel and bathmat were also green to go with the bathroom! Thank you for putting thought and imagination into this. Grounds and site – as so often, the steps/slopes are fine if you’re able-bodied or in a wheelchair, but a bit challenging if you just have some difficulty with walking. I really enjoyed the gentle touch workshop. 1:1 – I was so pleased there was an opportunity for a massage. I discovered the delights of a massage just a few years ago, but it’s not a regular occurrence, so this was a real treat! I was a little disappointed though, that mine was timed for straight after lunch, so no time for the Jacuzzi beforehand. Food was delicious. Just beginning to attune to the restfulness of it – when it’s over! I guess it’s better to leave wanting more than when you’re fed up with it….
The hospitality was warm and food excellent. I didn’t ‘have to’ do anything or talk to anyone. I could be anonymous. It’s a lovely place. The programme was well planned. The instruction not to minister to anyone was releasing. The volunteers were there for me/us. It would have been more helpful if I’d known a little bit more about the community itself – without buying the book! Three words to sum up my visit – cared for holistically. I liked the Quiet Room – a lovely bolthole. I was grateful to have been moved into a Lodge. I would have found the hard, narrow bed in the Pound House, and the high window, not conducive to rest and refreshment. Being self-contained, with a picture window (or en suite, but that wasn’t the issue) was a bonus. Grounds and site were easy to explore, enjoyed the pace and the ‘surprises’ e.g. .Dingly Dell, - and you couldn’t help the mud! Evening prayer was helpful. Library was well stocked. The Light and Colour workshop was great fun – lovely to see stunning results even for an un-artistic person. Massage was new, but great experience. Felt my privacy was respected and my body cherished. Food was wonderful – enjoyed not being made to feel ‘different’ or awkward as a vegetarian. Hospitality was warm. Videos could have been done without. Enjoyed meeting pre-dinner in Fat Pigeon. Shop stocked with essentials – staff always helpful. Thank you for a wonderful five days.
The week was helpful because of its peaceful environment, the chances for solitude, for the delightful walking, for the chance encounters and the unexpected. Three words sum up my visit – expectation fulfilled, exceeded. Accommodation and facilities – high standard. Grounds and site – a gem. Helped my journey this week immensely. Gentle Touch workshop – an interesting and novel experience. 1:1 massage – relaxing – sorted my shoulder out. Food – excellent. Hospitality – excellent, but found the ‘no shop talk’ too rigorously applied without proper cause at times. Videos – fun, especially the pop corn.
Enjoyable because of the ‘space’ in every way – of the helpfulness of all the Community and the volunteers – of the resources of library and chapels – of the Lodge and all its facilities – of the 1:1 sessions. The only little problem was that there seemed to be more ‘clergy talk’ than I had remembered on previous 12,000s. But – all-in-all a great facility.
It provided a quiet peaceful environment in which to relax and recharge the batteries away from the hustle and bustle of parish life. Nothing was forced and too much trouble, the only rule “don’t talk shop” was adhered to by us and the staff rigorously and was very helpful. One-to-one ‘massage’ and ‘conversation’ was ‘ fantastic’. It would have been more enjoyable if I had known a little more about the content before I came. I was concerned it would be irrelevant to my needs. As it turned out my concerns were totally unnecessary. I got a huge amount out of every session. Three words to sum up my visit – relaxing, stimulating, encouraging. Accommodation and facilities – very comfortable, hot water marvellous, loved it; grounds and site – a little squidgy when you leave the main area; worship – quiet and meditative; library – good selection of DVDs; workshops – gentle touch = wow! – focusing and dreams = unexpectedly useful – time of my life = unexpectedly insightful; one-to-one talk – Ian is a gift from God; massage – WOW! – I’ve never had one before but I left totally energised; food – consistently high quality and delicious; hospitality – without fault; videos – good fun and relaxing; other – the whole environment is conducive to a quiet and relaxing break!
I came very tired and despondent, feeling I had lost touch with God and myself. Within five days all this has changed. I feel grounded, energised and full of hope for the future; I don’t think what has happened will disappear as soon as I return to my parish. I am in a different place having been given tools through workshops to look at things in a new way. The love, the support, the gentle care of Sheldon is full of God’s grace. Words to sum up my visit – loving, caring, supportive, sensitive, energising, creative, joyful, fun, God-centred and God-centring. Accommodation and facilities – our second stay in a pig-pen. We love them, especially sitting up in bed in the morning, cup of tea in hand, watching the light coming into the valley opposite; grounds and site – very good; worship – simple, accessible, conducive to worship; library – a great resource, wish I could take it home!; workshops – gentle touch = excellent – focusing and dreams = very good – time of my life = excellent; 1:1 talks I had with Ian were a revelation and gave me a new way of looking at things – the massage was wonderful; food – superb; hospitality – wonderful, loving, non-intrusive, generous, kind; videos - fun..
People cared – three words to sum up my visit – hospitality (in all its meanings), care, kindness. Accommodation and facilities – for me brilliant; grounds and site – wonderful; worship – peaceful; library – fine; workshops – gentle touch = lovely – focusing and dreams /time of my life = liked the opportunity to paint in both; 1:1 – exactly what I needed (thank you Sarah) – massage was perfect (thank you Philippa); food – superb; other – I go back deeply touched by my time here.
It created a space in a caring environment in which I could reflect on issues that have caused problems for the last four years, put them into some sort of perspective and most importantly of all, feel that I am now ready to move on. The gentle rhythm of the timetable provided an unthreatening, unpressured framework for the week and the care you took of us was unintrusive but wonderfully effective. Three words to sum up my visit – relaxing, restorative, re-inspiring. Accommodation and facilities – very comfortable room, nice hard bed, excellent shower room. A kettle would have made it perfect, but that’s only a quibble! I enjoyed the wonderful view. Grounds and site – beautifully cared for, space to roam, explore and breathe in quiet and safety.; I particularly enjoyed views of the hills – my home area is somewhat challenged when it comes to vertical scenery! Worship – restful and peaceful. The end-of-week eucharist and laying-on-of-hands was particularly moving – it was good to be on the receiving end! Library – well-stocked. I unwound with two novels but didn’t have the mental energy for the theological section! Workshops – gentle touch = very helpful for unwinding and reminding me of the importance of breathing. Philippa is so encouraging…. – focusing and dreams = more helpful than I had expected and it introduced some useful techniques for meditating – time of my life = very energising, it provided a wonderful way for me to put into focus the 1:1 I had earlier in the week with Dorothy – I was really able to put some issues ‘to bed’ and move on. I felt really energised as a result of the 1:1 and ‘time of my life’ . Food – excellent. It would have been nice to have filter coffee available mid-morning as instant gives me a headache. Hospitality – very caring without being overpowering. The volunteers were all lovely. And Jan is a real gem…. Videos – great! A real opportunity for escapism and unwinding. I particularly enjoyed the recent remake of ‘St Trinians’!
It restored my faith in a caring church. Three words to sum up my visit – relaxing, restorative, refuge. Accommodation and facilities – 5-star; grounds and site – wonderfully relaxing, beautiful location; worship – not too demanding, just right; library – well-stocked, diverse; workshops – all excellent in their different ways – you made us all feel very much at ease; 1:1 time – brilliant; food, hospitality, videos – all excellent; other – will definitely recommend Sheldon to others. Thank you for being there. Hope to come again. 5-star accommodation, 5-star treatment.
It was exactly what I needed at my present stage of my ministry. Affirmation of where I am and shared experience was good and useful. Can’t think of anything that would have made the week significantly better. Three words to sum up my visit – overslept, overfed, overwhelming! Grounds and site – beautiful; worship – peaceful and unforced; library – good recreational selection; workshops – well paced, thoughtful and useful resources to take away; 1:1 time – talk = sensible and affirming - massage = like walking on air afterwards; food – good and varied and wholesome; hospitality – splendid – no shop talk – such a relief; videos – good selection, fun!; other – an excellent break away. Many thanks.
We want to thank you for giving us such a good and healing time in the last five days. We came down exhausted and fairly muddled and we go home energised and full of anticipation. The name "12,000-mile Service" is such a good one for the experience we have had - just like taking one's squeaky, hiccuping car into a garage and then - a few days later - out it comes, running beautifully. We hope we will run beautifully for a little while! Thank you for your generosity of spirit, your prayerful centredness and your acceptance of others which shines through everything you do. With very much love.
…the anonymity. Freedom to be me without any expectation of a role. Also being served and lovingly cared for was remarkedly releasing. Sarah’s organisation of my timetable was almost invisible and unobtrusive, again a very freeing experience. Three words to sum up my visit – confidence restored/rest. Grounds and site are a nice mixture of woods, fields and landscape; worship – communion was gentle – I didn’t attend anything else; library – good stock, appalled to see how many go missing; workshops - focusing and dreamwork – 6/10; gentle touch – 9/10, a new skill; fun with words – 9/10 and very creative; 1:1 talk – superb for me – very good – Jan’s massage helped me relax. Excellent; food and spoiled by so much choice; hospitality – a wonderful blend of hands off and hands on; videos – nice to do in a group.
I was given complete space, time and freedom to relax, to recover a little from the stresses I had been under and to allow issues to come to the surface that are too easily neglected in the busyness of ‘life as usual’. The Community Members were wonderful in their gentle support, respect and servant hearts. A week without a set agenda, turned out to be a week with quite a full agenda set by God! There was wonderful company, superb accommodation, rich and plentiful food and a beautiful location – what more can we ask! The Pig Pens are superb. When the Long Barn is rebuilt it will make a really good set of buildings; grounds and site – beautiful; worship- gentle and supportive; library – very helpful – the DVD section seemed popular! Can we have a book on British wildlife – would solve doubt of what kind of deer in the grounds. Workshops – I didn’t attend the workshops, I enjoyed walking instead – felt no pressure to attend or resentment that I had stayed away – the buzz from those who did attend was very positive; food – marvellous; hospitality – gentle, non-intrusive, supportive, fun; videos – film nights are a great idea; other – good information pack – I appreciated loan of the O.S. map.
My stay at Sheldon was a wonderful and profound experience that has touched me greatly and I would just like to say that I can't thank you all enough for the care that I received.
... The warmth of the welcome from you all enabled me to relax and feel at home straight away and it was good to be part of a small group of colleagues and to have no pressures from anywhere. The house rule of no shop talk was excellent, although I got very close a couple of times! Thank you for the quality time you gave me. Having done so many jig-saws whilst I was there, I cant’ help but use them as a description of how I felt when I arrived – a lot of pieces needing to be put back together again, and to be whole once more. Whilst I feel well established and back on my feet I am not quite ready to get back into the saddle, but I know that will come in time once I have worked through some of the things I need to do. ... A special 'thank you' to you for all the time you gave me. I have regained a lot of my confidence and am feeling stronger day by day. ...
To all the Team, Sheldon community and volunteers… may I thank you all for all the care and pampering this week has been. I wasn’t too sure what to expect but the hospitality has been superb, the food excellent, the workshops interesting and the worship enfolding. I take away a really good sense of wellbeing and a reminder that God gives sacred space, and you have provided it. May your work at Sheldon continue, may the blessings given to others be yours too. And thank you for all you have offered and given this past week.
It gave me time and space to recharge batteries in a safe, warm, loving environment where no questions were asked, assumptions made; no ‘shop’ talk and I actually was given the chance to think about new skills. To find ‘me’ again and to talk to someone who could help me work though issues that went back many years. I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if it was a little bit longer perhaps – for a full week Sunday to Sunday. 3 words to sum up my visit – A God send.
There was a good balance of optional activity and personal space. A great time to rediscover the sacred centre, weaving rest, food, walking, prayer, reflection, reading, and ‘re-imagining’ back into my personal picture. A beautiful setting, excellent resources, helpful volunteers, friendly community gives a profound shot of affirmation – thank you. I would have found this week more enjoyable if the filter coffee/decaff was stronger! 3 words to sum up my visit – gracious, gentle, respectful.
It was space for me to be me without a role or expectations. I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if I had had the time to have a Jacuzzi – I would have liked the experience! Also for those who have no access to a TV – leaving the equipment out the whole time, for DVDs and news! A daily newspaper would have been helpful. 3 words to sum up my visit – totally utterly pampered!
There was no agenda and no expectations of me. I could do or not do what I liked. No one knew my role/status. I was accepted for whom I am – or as much as I chose to reveal about myself within the “no shop talk” rules. Walks good. Able to explore/walk on my own with the help of Hillary’s walks file. I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if I’d had an ensuite bathroom and a room where I could see the view! [Webeditor: see plans for Long Barn] But this is minor over the whole experience. 3 words to sum up my visit – refreshing, peaceful, invigorating.
It enabled me to clarify my thinking about how to return to work after a short illness. I was greatly troubled and you have been fantastic. I would have found it more useful etc. if it had lasted for a fortnight. Three words to sum up my visit – empowering, healing, peaceful.
It was an oasis. I would have it more helpful/enjoyable if there were beanbags in the chapel. Three words to sum up my visit – an oasis experience.
The week was tailored to my hopes and expectations; it was non-threatening, yet with opportunity to extend my experience e.g. ‘gentle touch’ and ‘fun with words’ seminars; I was able to talk over faith and ministry at some length; the food was good; the weather was outstanding; the worship was straightforward and undemanding. I would have found it more useful/helpful/enjoyable if it had gone on for weeks!
It helped me recharge my batteries – everyone was so friendly and laid back! Also I loved the liberal theological approach as I become more liberal by the day! I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if there had been more variety in the worship. The chapel lends itself to more creativity [Webeditor: fair comment, but as a Community we "pray as we can" day in day out]. Three words to sum up my visit – brilliant, refreshing, life-enhancing.
Richard Skinner and Daphne – creativity; Sandie – hospitality; Discovering the poems of R.S.Thomas in the library – marvellous; volunteer team. I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if…I find Sheldon oppressive and precious. I prefer silent retreats at Franciscan friaries and more solitude. It nourishes and sustains me. Three words to sum up my visit – oppressive but creative.
Thank you for all that you have done for me this week. I’m sure I speak for the others on the 12,000 – this has been a special and valuable time. I shall look forward to seeing you again later in the year when I will introduce my wife to the oasis of love that is Sheldon. Keep up the wonderful work.
This week was just what we needed given the pressures we were under at the time. 3 words sum up our visit – space, peace, integrity. Accommodation and facilities were excellent; grounds and site were well kept, accessible and a joy to behold; worship – Holy Communion was Anglican but well accessible to non-Anglican; library was excellent resource of varied theological flavours. Workshops: Rhythm – excellent and fun to listen and be part of the whole, without knowing anyone. 1:1 time – very helpful, not counselling, a trained listener who helped us hear ourselves. Food – yummy! Hospitality – sincere, friendly and unobtrusive. Videos – fun. Many thanks to the whole team.
... your predictable cheerful, laidback (but well prepared hardworking) approach, strict rules, availability, privacy!!, and very comfy facilities. Good food, good beds, warm rooms, and quality provision made me feel I was getting a perk and being pampered, not a familiar feeling when so often “Christian” means “a bit secondhand, scrimp and save” for my working environment. Nothing to criticise. 3 words to sum up my visit: practical loving care. Accommodation and facilities – pig pens brilliant. We were in pig pens 7 years ago – the improvement is GREAT. Grounds and site – a lot of effort went in – and it is lovely. Thanks for getting the “extras” really nice. Worship – I don’t come for corporate worship – and given the nature of the 12,000, I think your approach is fine. Workshops – Fun with Words I enjoyed a lot. 1:1 – since coming home our son now has a job offer and our daughter is enjoying her new job and also has repaired some relationships. Your ministry to us was reassuring and bang on. Food – yum! yum! yum! Hospitality – a vital role. We just so enjoy being waited on hand and foot by people with smiles on their faces who obviously think we are L’Oreal people (worth it!). You are doing great work – Thanks.
Being cared for and looked after. Sheldon is that contradiction in terms – a neat farm! 3 words to sum up my visit – I feel loved. Accommodation and facilities were certainly small (LB3)! but fine.Oversized and noisy fridge for a little milk! Upstairs power tripped twice. [Webeditor: yes, aware of issues, but plans now well advanced for huge improvements to the Long Barn] Grounds and site – good. Worship – good. Library – excellent DVDs; also enjoyed “Christianity for Dummies” and looked for Austin Farrer and found two titles! Workshops: Focusing and Dreamwork – middling – dogmatic and not very clearly explained. Rhythm – excellent – simple and easy but creative and enormous fun. Fun with Words – even more excellent – I shall use the exercises again. Gave me confidence to be creative with poetry. 1:1 time – talk was the single most helpful outcome – I made decisions which I can take home and do; massage was a sensuous delight, but safe – wonderful! Food – delicious, spot on. Hospitality – caring and sensitive. Videos – The Weatherman was not very good. Nanny MacPhee was excellent family feelgood.
Opening the door to the Pig Pen was just the beginning to a great week – the thought and care that have gone into the accommodation was obvious. The work that has gone into Sheldon is incredible, and since buying ‘The Fat Pigeon Flies', we have become aware of how much a risk setting up the whole project has been for yourselves and so many others, over so many years. The food was wholesome and filling; the ground rules to the programme were borne out of experience; and the chance to be listened to more than once (and at short notice) was greatly appreciated. The volunteers for the week were superb, and it all made for a memorable stay. In fact somebody prayed in church tonight about the stars, and I was transported back to last Thursday night as the last of us made our way to our beds, only to be stopped in our tracks to look at and learn about the stars that hover over Sheldon. So thank you: while our situations haven’t magically improved since being with you, we have had opportunity to get things into perspective, and think about what really matters.
It provided space – physical, mental and spiritual – to re-assess my life and spend time with God. I would have found this week more enjoyable if…nothing to comment on really but a daily newspaper for everyone’s use would have been nice. 2 words to sum up my visit - space apart. I was very happy with my room. Workshops: Focusing and Dreamwork – this workshop was the springboard of all that happened for me. God just took the material and used it through the week. 1:1 time – wonderful to have excellent care for my body as well as my mind. Food – excellent. The lack of overall comments is because it was all very good indeed, particularly the ‘non-intrusion’ philosophy. Thank you.
... the space and the unobtrusive but deeply palpable care that gently radiated from the centre. Its effect on me was to provide an environment in which I could ‘re-group’ myself, rest and (important and revealing this, I think:) in which I found a lot of poetry coming and being articulated through me, almost as a natural flow (and this was very nearly all before Richard’s poetry workshop!). The jacuzzi was a new and lovely experience as was (only more so) the massage! It was also very good to know the daily offices were going on and that I could leave them to others to pray on my behalf! I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if perhaps (and only perhaps) I could have had a further ‘interview’ towards the end of the week, to reflect, review and ‘gather up’ the many things that developed during the week. Also, for the first day or two I was a little unsure how to relate to my fellow retreatants (wanting of course, as we were helpfully told, to respect their space…) it became much clearer as the week went on. Accommodation and facilities – very good, I actually appreciated not being en suite! Grounds and site – the mud is not anything we can avoid! Worship – excellent final Eucharist (for me the laying on of hands seemed not necessary for the whole Eucharist was a healing finale, but I am sure for those who received it, it was very important). Library – lovely sink-into armchair! It smelt a bit fusty (perhaps that makes it an authentic library?!). Workshops: Focusing and Dreamwork – gave it a miss. Rhythm – would have gone but had a massage instead. Fun with Words – Good (Richard mis-timed the end a little). Food – good. Hospitality – discreet, warm, ideal! Many, many thanks! (I have already recommended Sheldon to several colleagues!).
I was very tired and we both needed to get away from our family and home. Much of the anxiety I had been experiencing seeped away over the first two days. Although I had a back and hip problem which meant I couldn’t go on the “walks” – the rest and gentle rhythm to the days was restorative. I was able to give God my “ancestral” skeletons in the cupboard, after talking to Sarah about it, by going into the small chapel and committing them to Him I now feel peace about them. 3 words sum up my visit: Anxiety shared, lifted. Accommodation: the ‘Pig Pen’ refurbished is very comfortable, chairs good, en-suite and kitchen area cosy and easy to use, very clean. Grounds and site: liked the bench to sit on in front of Pig Pen and listened to the owls one evening, and all the area near the Pound House very attractive. Worship: enjoyed the “new” chapel upstairs, enjoyed singing this time with “accompaniment”. Library: good choice and very varied – need another week to read and perhaps won’t bring my own books next time. Workshops: Focusing and Dreamwork – wasn’t going to go to this but glad I did, was able to use “focusing” in a young people’s group when I got back to church. We read Rev 3.20 and were looking at H. Hunt’s ‘Light of the World’ and my painting from workshop. Rhythm – wide variety of instruments, Sue led it without forcing anyone to do anything we didn’t want to, really “noticed” our young lad drumming and enjoyed “percussion” in my own church when I got back, fun going outside and down to open-air theatre, quite special. Fun with Words: Richard was open about his own work and it was interesting to see what came out in such a diverse group! Only workshop my husband and I attended together and we weren’t allowed to work together as we were a married couple. Eating in the Pound House gave the meals more of a ‘refectory’ feel - but the view was lovely; food – very varied and tasty – given me ideas for our ‘home’ cooking. Hospitality: volunteers showed real care but in an “unfussy” and humorous way. Videos: well – we all found “the Weather Man” rather ‘bleak’ but then made up for it by watching “Nanny McPhee” with “slapstick” and “froth” but famous actors having fun. Other: really think the Pound House improvements and “Fat Pigeon” Bar excellent.
I came with no agenda other than I wanted to hear God speak and relax my body, mind and soul. It took me a while to settle into life at Sheldon. It was unlike any other retreat I have been on but it worked for me. I really appreciated getting in touch with my feelings and creativity in a completely safe environment, I also appreciated the anonymity and yet the complete care. God spoke to me in surprising ways! 3 words to sum up my visit: unexpected, held, serviced. Accommodation and facilities: comfortable and very clean. Grounds and site: peaceful location, plenty of places to walk and be solitary, an ideal setting. Worship: a natural rhythm that you could opt into or out of and yet I felt that it permeated everything else that took place, particularly appreciated the silence before communion. Library: very well stocked. Workshops – Focusing and Dreamwork – I particularly appreciated being able to give expression to my feelings through art work. Rhythm: no musical ability needed – just good fun! Fun with Words – I was surprised at how much came out of this session expressing the deeply spiritual content of my week through poetry. 1:1 time – a useful place to give expression to my journey since ordination and to refocus on my true calling. Food – good, wholesome and satisfying. Hospitality – excellent, very gentle. Videos – second one much better than first, enjoyable and relaxing. Other – the Jacuzzi and massage were wonderful.
It is such a beautiful balance of nourishment for the body, mind and spirit, with plenty of still spaces in between. Never formal, but always respectful of each individual. I find the Sheldon Community ethos is expressed perfectly in the service offered. I would have found this week more useful etc. if I could have bottled some essence of Sheldon and taken it home together with a regular massage and Jan’s cooking! 3 words to sum up my visit: refreshed and revitalized. Accommodation and facilities – Pound House room very comfortable. Good shower! Grounds and site – wonderful to walk through the woods, chat with the sheep, pay my respects to St. Francis and be ignored by the rams! Worship – I only went to a few offices. The communion on Friday with silence beforehand and laying on hands helped me put the whole experience in perspective. Library – excellent. Workshops: Focusing and Dreamwork – Daphne is a very engaging character and I enjoyed her freewheeling, selective approach to psychotherapy! Rhythm – I was slightly apprehensive – a bit near to home for me. I needn’t have worried – Sue was engaging, enthusiastic and I’ll never forget trouping down to the theatre with all our instruments! Fun with Words – Richard – as ever- was excellent, and drew a very high standard of writing from the group – some quite moving. 1:1 time - Talk with Dot excellent, helpful. I felt listened to and valued. Massage with Philippa wonderful! Extra talk with Daphne a bit confusing, but fun! Vidoes – I fell asleep in the first and didn’t get to the second – too tired after my massage! Thank you all for the individual care and attention that marks out a stay at Sheldon – it just keeps on getting better!
It gave me the permission and the space to stand back and look at myself. It allowed me to be vulnerable by providing a safe and loving atmosphere. Surrounded by love I felt able to open up to my weaknesses! I felt valued. It would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if I had had a more comfortable chair in my room, to be able to sit, read or just be by myself when I needed to. 3 words sum up my visit – peace, warmth, affirmation. Accommodation and facilities – a more comfortable chair in the room would have been appreciated. Grounds and site – beautiful, breathtaking and well cared for. Worship – open and no pressure to conform. Library – cosy and adequate for the length of stay. Workshops: Focusing and Dreamwork – challenging, took me a little out of my comfort zone, but revealing of my inner self. Rhythm – great fun. Fun with Words – brought out words and thoughts I didn’t know I had in me! 1:1 Time – extremely valuable, a vital part of my visit – gave me a lot to take away and think about. Food – good and plenty of it. Hospitality – 10/10. Videos – very enjoyable – good time spent together.
There was plenty of space to reflect quietly within a structured and very enjoyable programme. The group quickly came together and we related well with one another. This was helped to happen by the wonderful atmosphere created by the staff and volunteers. The care of the community, which is reflected in the standard of accommodation and the high quality of the food, was hugely helpful. Meals were high points for food and relationships. I could not think of anything which would have made the week more helpful, etc. Three words to sum up my visit – not half bad!
It gave me opportunity to be myself as a person rather than minister, husband and Dad. I particularly valued the fact that we could not talk about WORK, so concentrated on WHO WE WERE AS INVIDIVUALS. I haven’t laughed so much for ages. I enjoyed being able to borrow DVDs from the library and watch in my room at all hours of day and night. I found all workshops helpful and stimulating. I enjoyed some lovely walks and lovely food. I found it very helpful having time with Ian Sim. The Pig Pen was wonderful – thank you for this lovely space. The meal with wine Thursday evening was a lovely conclusion. I also very much appreciated the moving communion sermon – the prayer of blessing would cover any situation people were in. Also really enjoyed massage and massage workshop – they enabled me to rediscover power of senses. Three words sum up my visit – fun, rest, inspiration.
This week gave me plenty of space to use the time as I wished and I felt I did everything I’d hoped to do. There were no regrets about time-usage. The rule about no shop talk was liberating and beneficial. The volunteers were marvellous, so easy-going and caring. I enjoyed the workshops I attended more than I thought I would! I cannot think of a single thing which would have made this week more useful etc. (The only thing was the distance to travel which I found tiring particularly on the crowded trains on both Sunday and Friday, but I can’t criticise Sheldon for that!). Three words to sum up my visit – space to be.
The setting – real sense of apartness, gracious hospitality and sense of being cared for without any over-anxiety, sense of stability and calm given by the community and its worship, permission to step out of clergy role, of being cared for so well when I was ill. I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if I had not been ill – just one of those things. Words to sum up my visit – restful, restorative, spiritually energising.
It helped me to revaluate my Retired Ministry; helpful because I now intend to appreciate my body and to care for it as God’s gift; enjoyable because there was so much laughter and the setting is so beautiful. I would have found it more useful/helpful/enjoyable if there had been more music. Perhaps more hymns in chapel. [Webeditor - not enough musical ability among the Community!] Three words to sum up my visit – relaxing, liberating, energising.
It was a programme with the right balance of freedom, structure, guidance, space, reflection and direction…. and I was able to make what I wanted of it. Although I enjoy company, I found that I wanted a lot of space from people, noise, chit chat … and I was able to do that… and yet not feel alone. God was quietly there. Truly “light touch” in every sense. I would have found this week more helpful etc… I really don't have anything to say here. Three words to sum up my visit – space, peace, presence.
Some time has passed since my stay with you. I returned home refreshed and thankful for your hospitality. It was such a treat not to think of preparing meals or buying food, as when we go away we tend to go self-catering and that side of things still falls to me. Please thank Jan for the value of her ministry both in the kitchen and in the benefits I received from a massage. I valued the simplicity of both chapels and the caring sincerity of the services. I found myself gravitating towards the seats near the window sill where you have the head of Christ and the crown of thorns and was deeply ministered to as I studied the face. There was a beautiful acceptance of where he was at that moment, that touched me. The one to one sessions were an opportunity to let go and take on new things to ponder (and of course, implement) and I am grateful to Sarah for the time she gave to me. I revelled in the comfort of the Quiet Room and think it is such a good idea to have both a communal lounge to chat and a quiet place. We have enjoyed the Whisky Marmalade I bought from the shop and coming close to the end of it has prompted me to do something about us becoming Friends of Sheldon. I was deeply impressed by the value of the ministry you conduct and wish you God’s blessing and joy in your service for Him there.
I was able to focus on my own issues at a significant time in my life. I valued dipping out of one workshop to be quiet before the Lord and was glad to come back into a situation where people were around me. I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if there had been an opportunity to say goodbye. The welcome was clear and settling. I understand the community may want to separate themselves and detach from the ministry which is at an end, on the Friday after Chapel. However I believe, psychologically, there should opportunity for goodbyes. If Thursday evening is intended for this purpose I think that ought to be made clear to everyone. Something feels a bit incomplete. [Webeditor: thank you for this comment. We generally aim to keep the ending low key because people have very different needs. We try to make sure that the team are "around" during departure so people can find us if they want to say goodbye. We would specifically avoid a group-focused goodbye session because this is inappropriate for quite a lot of guests.] Three words to sum up my visit – space, challenge, support.
It provided me with rest, space and a sense of perspective that I badly needed. The care and hospitality that is offered embodies the spirit of Mary and Martha and has been invaluable to me. I would have found this week more helpful/enjoyable if the beds were more comfortable. Three words to sum my visit – invaluable, nurturing, gentle.
... because of the setting of Sheldon and the opportunity for quiet reflection. I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if the 1.2.1 session had been more supportive/affirmative with an understanding of my position for the future of my ministry.[Webeditor: really sorry this didn't work so well for you. We try to stress that if people don't "click" with the person they are allocated for 1:1 time then it is fine to ask for someone else.] Three words to sum up my visit – ‘rest without renewal’.
Used both sides of my brain (!) - art and intellect. One to ones very good. Practical care for us. Meals, general attitudes, walks, no shop talk. Perfect timing for us to be here at this stage of ministry. Very relaxing to be somewhere that knows what it's about and does it well. Better if we'd been less tired when we arrived. Not your fault! but then really appreciated time to rest. Cared for, wonderfully, spoilt, spiritually supported. Grounds and site excellent. Worship peaceful and low key - just what was needed. Good to explore new things in workshops. 1:1 time - found this helpful which was exactly what was needed. Delicious food - thanks for catering for special diet. Brilliant hospitality. DVDs a nice touch - especially to watch all one uninterrupted! Fantastic week. THANK YOU.
Useful: chance to learn new things and develop sides to me I hadn't eg poetry and massage. Enjoyable:low key but interesting workshops, jigsaws to dip in and out of, easy low pressure socialising. Helpful: chance to let go of parish stuff but also space to let emotions rise to the surface in a safe setting. Better if: occasionally at meals when none of us was speaking the silence was not uncomfortable - we were just chilled, but sometimes volunteers seemed to feel the need to keep the conversation going. Silence is okay too. My visit was personally challenging, supportive, eventually restful. Showers, loos, kitchen spaces really very good and kept well by staff and volunteers. I felt well taken care of. The brochure emphasises the larger accommodation so I was psychologically unprepared for the very tiny room. It rather threw me for a couple of days because I didn't feel I had "space". I think if the brochure said more directly that some of the rooms were v. small it wouldn't have been such a shock. [Webeditor: we're not sure what else to say. Brochure states "single people are not asked to share but the smallest rooms are very small and have no basin". It also says that the Linhay Lodges are only for private retreats not programme events? [See future plans.] Grounds and site lovely and well-maintained. Worship low key and a good mixture. Liked short readings and silence in the evenings. Night prayers on Monday felt a bit haphazard and I didn't go to it after that. Library was nice space and a pretty good selection of stuff. If you ever had a larger space for it that would be good. Focusing and Dreams workshop was an interesting topic, gently delivered. I liked working with art stuff and was then able to use dreams in 1:1 session. Fund with Words was really great. Light touch but very deep too. Gentle Touch - I was worried about going to this because I have had no experience of massage. It was great. Very well presented and organised. 1:1 time okay. I had managed to get a grip on things a bit before I went. Some useful thinking to take away. Very nice food but I'm not sure that the chicken/cabbage recipe worked. I thought it was chicken with red onions but not a problem! super lamb and jams and cheese! Hospitality excellent. Attentive - there with help when you needed it. Videos fine - good system for voting. Thank you. It's been lovely. I'm feeling much more refreshed.
I was so well looked after in every way. There was time, space to do whatever seemed right. Everything was very well maintained. Fun with Words workshop was particularly enjoyable. Talking time helpful to clarify my thoughts and receive some pointers. Food good! I enjoyed Margaret's friendly chats and smile. Thank you all for a really good few days.
It gave me space - space in a geographical sense and space to be myself. Would have liked volunteers to be properly introduced with more than just Christian names. Who were these people and what were their backgrounds - ordained/lay - what do they bring to the scenario? Accommodation and facilities exceptionally good - but possibly a little light to not build in en-suite (when in every other way excellent) Grounds and site very good - more benches/seats in quiet locations. Worship very good. Would have liked to have seen celebrant at eucharist robed with a collar. Was he a priest? Library a little tiny. 1:1 time very helpful - would however liked to know something of the volunteer who saw me. Excellent food and hospitality. Very good videos. More signage needed from M5 to help find Sheldon - I really think this needs attention [Webeditor - we're in the hands of the council on this and have been turned down before. However, travel directions page recently updated and highly recommended!]
A good balance of space ad structure (and brilliant food!) The "no shop" rule was excellent - not experienced it elsewhere. Took some discipline but well worth it. Would have been better if I hadn't waited 15 years before returning to Sheldon - I'll be back! Accommodation fine. Grounds fine - grass could do with a cut (would have happily volunteered but thought it might disturb the peace). Worship just right. Found useful books in the Library. Workshops: Focusing and Dreams - very helpful. Fun with Words - excellent. Gentle Touch - gave it a miss. Wish I hadn't. 1:1 time - very grateful for this. Sorry not to be drawn in the massage lottery. Food 5* especially the marmalade. Ditto the hospitality. You have something very special here. I shall tell others, just as someone told me. God bless your ministry.
It was such a treat to be pampered and waited on. Wonderful meals all locally produced with no domestic duties. Time to do "my own thing" and gradually relax and let go. Find the bunk-type bed a bit narrow. [Webeditor: see future plans.] Hope when you renovate you will use eco-friendly lights and bulbs. Worship simple and helpful. Fun with Words workshop inspiring. Gentle Touch workshop - what a wonderfully gifted woman and so good at relaxing us all to take part. 1:1 time - this was something I had not experienced before, and will hope to indulge in from time to time. Excellent food and hospitality. Good to be able to relax and watch DVDs with no pressure or interruptions. May you continue your God given gifts and all our clergy find time to find themselves again as normal human beings loved by God. Peace, Joy and Love abounded.
It was different from any other retreat I have been on. I was cared for on every level by staff and volunteers. It was physical, mental and spiritual refreshment. The ‘no shop talk’ worked well in our group on the whole and although initially this felt strange there was never a shortage of conversation. The freedom to opt in or out of activities was good with no pressure one way or the other. Accommodation and facilities
Everything there one could need. Facilities excellent even down to jigsaws! The old chapel is a very special place for being quiet and finding time and space with God.
Grounds and site: wonderful with a feeling of space as well as purpose. To wonder round the grounds and find places to sit, relax and reflect was perfect.
Worship: The simple offices each day were led beautifully and were very much part of the spiritual, nurture side of my stay. Workshops: Fun with Words - For someone who does not particularly like writing this workshop did exactly what it said – it was great fun and I loved every minute of it. Richard led us well and encouraged and affirmed every participant. The writing of poems in pairs was a new and very positive experience. Gentle Touch - it was exactly that – gentle. 1:1 time (talk and/or massage)
Massage was sheer luxury and a real felling of being pampered.
The opportunity for 1:1 was much appreciated and helped to get things into perspective. Food …glorious food! Every meal was a feast, cooked and served with care and love. Thank you. Hospitality: From arrival to departure the hospitality could not be faulted. Both staff and volunteers were there if needed but never intrusive. Videos: Love the selection process. Joined in one which was fun and the popcorn and sweets a nice touch which made me laugh. I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ….. the accommodation had been better. [Webeditor - we have started work on redesigning the Long Barn for these reasons - watch this space]. The room in the Long Barn was adequate but I would have liked a room with a view rather than having to climb on my bed to look out of the window. It was not an easy room to relax in. A wash basin would also have been helpful. Having said that, the bed was very comfortable and I slept well. Other: At times it felt quite self- indulgent – it was so good. Must mention the opportunity for walking – both guided walks and to set off on one’s own provided with excellent maps and instructions. My thanks to everyone who made the 12,000 mile service possible.
... It offered a safe, uncritical space for reflection and recuperation. Everything was done for us which takes a little getting used to, but is a blessing. I was able to be alone and silent as I needed within the community which was just right for my needs. An added bonus, the accommodation is excellent, the food delicious and the scenery stunning. 3 words to sum up my visit: beauty, struggle, respite.
The week was helpful because there was a very good balance of content and time to be myself/do own thing. Workshops definitely added to the refreshment of body, mind and spirit. I would have found this week more useful/ helpful/enjoyable if the ‘no shop’ had been treated and explained in a better way. I would interpret ‘shop’ as the work I’m doing now. To be slapped down for a throw away comment which referred to 30 years ago, was not very pleasant. So I think it would help other people as well if there was a fuller explanation in the brochure before booking. The first 24 hours were not comfortable and felt very unwelcoming, but eventually I can say ‘Excellent. Thank you!’ Accommodation and facilities – excellent except the beds were too hard for my delicate back! Grounds and site – most attractive. Worship – OK. Workshops: Focusing and Dreams – interesting. Gentle Touch – excellent, useful. Fun with Words – Great fun! 1:1 massage – very relaxing and helpful. Food – excellent – thank you for my ‘special’ meals. Hospitality – excellent. Videos – great fund.
I found this week useful because I was very tired when I arrived and have few people in the parish with whom I could share my concerns though our Archdeacon has helped us a lot. 3 words sum up my visit: freedom, security, refreshment. Accommodation and facilities – very good, thank you. Grounds and site – always lovely. Worship – even if I couldn’t always get to the services the chapels were always open. Library – I enjoyed doing watercolour painting in my room with the materials provided. Workshops: Focusing and Dreams – very helpful. Gentle Touch – releasing. Fun with Words – it really was fun! And we also worked in the open air for some of the time, which I liked. 1:1 time – it was so good to talk, I’m very grateful to Dot. Food – lovely. Hospitality – to be emulated by us at home d.v. Scrabble – lovely to play a game. Other – thank you very much for all your concern and prayers.
... valuable and enjoyable because of the excellent support provided. The unintrusive companionship provided by the volunteers made me feel welcomed and cherished. It has been a healing and strengthening experience. 3 words to sum up my visit: restful, restoring, fun. Accommodation and facilities: I liked my little room in the Long Barn - the loo and shower were very convenient. [Webeditor: and this is about to get even better: see future plans.] Better hanging space is the only improvement. Grounds and site: I enjoyed the freedom of the grounds. The abundance of spring flowers was a bonus. Some pathways I found a bit steep, but you could choose your route. Worship: Supportive and not demanding. I enjoyed the time for reflection in company. Library: Excellent choice of jigsaw puzzles. Workshops: Focusing and Dreams - I found it difficult to engage fully with this probably because it followed after my interview. Possibly I would have been wiser to opt out, buy I enjoyed the drawing. Gentle Touch - It was good to be able to give and receive massage. The instructions and demonstrations were very clear. Fun with Words - I enjoyed this immensely because I like playing with words and Richard made it very easy to participate. 1:1 time: Talking to Ian and being listened to and encouraged has been very rewarding. It has helped to get things in a more positive perspective and I feel more balanced and energised. Food: Excellent home cooked food. Just right. Hospitality: I cannot imagine any way in which I could be better cared for. Videos: I only saw the first one "The Illusionist" and I really enjoyed it. Other: You provided just what I hoped for and needed at this time and I am sure it will bear fruit in the future.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... I can't imagine anything that could have made it better than it has been.
The week gave me the opportunity to unwind fully; I felt valued and nurtured unconditionally; the workshops opened some new avenues and developed others in a way which was creative and inspiring; I have been able to reassess priorities. 3 words sum up my visit – renewing, creative, inspiring. Grounds and site were excellent and the worship helpful, especially when led by community members. I agree that it's better without singing. The workshops were all creative and inspiring times. 1:1 time was most helpful
just to unload to a good listener at an early stage, especially as it set the scene for the workshops. Very much appreciated the massage and impressed that Jan had notes from 2-3 years ago, which meant there was continuity. Thank you especially for catering for a special diet as a matter of course. The food, as with all aspects of the hospitality, is excellent. Really appreciate that all aspects of the programme are optional – there is no pressure. Full marks for organising such wonderful weather! Enjoyed walking and appreciated being able to borrow a map.
The week was helpful because it gave time and space to think and reflect. This place enabled me to be away from the pressure and allowed me time to think and pray. The food was excellent and so I was fed both spiritually and physically. Time to talk and someone to listen to me – how good is that. For me it was just right and exactly what I needed. 3 words sum up my visit – strengthened, renewed, empowered. My bed could be a little wider – my single bed was too narrow. The grounds were excellent, peaceful, relaxing. The morning prayer was just right; evening and night prayer perhaps too much silence for me. The workshop I attended was superb, thought provoking. 1:1 talk with Sarah was extremely helpful and enabled me to reflect on where I feel I am, she put up with my ramblings. Massage was just fantastic – what a ministry Jan has! Food and hospitality were excellent, videos very good. Thank you for the ministry you offer – it was beyond my expectations.
For me the week was seriously compromised by the refusal of one of the other guests to abide by the rules. Because he knew me he constantly talked about my parish and we ended up having a row on the last evening. The bed without a headboard in the pig pen was not very comfortable. The grounds and site were very good, the library good, the workshops mostly very good. 1:1 talk very helpful. Food was very good, hospitality from team brilliant and videos very good.
.... I was allowed to be me. I did what I needed to do and nobody made me feel I was "missing out" if I chose not to do something or I "didn't belong" because I did some things and not others. Being looked after gave me the space I needed and I found more than I expected in that space. The programme was just the right amount. 3 words to sum up my visit: nurturing, comfortable fun. Accommodation and Facilities: When I was shown to my room I couldn't believe how wonderful it was. Perfect - it completely fitted my needs. Grounds and site: Fantastic! I loved the chickens and sheep! Worship: OK. Workshops: Focusing and Dreams - very good. Daphne is an amazing woman. She was full of knowledge and shared it compassionately. Fun with words - this was unexpectedly helpful. Richard handled us all very sensitively. He created a very positive atmosphere. 1:1 time: Did exactly what it said on the tin! Food: Well cooked, plenty of it - thank you. Brilliant last evening meal! Hospitality: Could not have been better. Videos: Great fun! Other: It seemed too far to come - I'm glad I came, it was more than worth it. Thank you.
... of the loving, accepting ethos of the community. It is quiet, understated, yet underpinning all that happens here. It shows; in the care of the renovation of the buildings, in the serving and the quality of the food, the cleanliness, the grounds and the farm. I had to allow myself two days to come to terms with being served and then I could really use the time to 'be' me. Many thanks to Sheldon community/volunteers/helpers etc ... 3 words to sum up my visit: restful, beautiful, rejuvenating. Accommodation and facilities: Very happy with all the buildings and facilities. Especially appreciated the old chapel, the massage, nice hot showers. Only difficulty was the heating in the bedroom - too hot! Not easy to regulate and ended up opening the window. Grounds and site: Loved the grounds. The walkways around the site. The plentiful number of benches in suitable spots. Keep encouraging the birds! Worship: Suited me fine. A bit of me likes to come away from C of E worship when on retreat (the radical side of me) but it was fine. Appreciated the chapel - comfortable - beautiful - restful. Library: Good. Borrowed a collection of short stories - a good read. Thanks. Workshops: Rhythm of Life - Struggled with this one. Appreciated it - but the sounds jarred for me. Many thanks for simple circle dance to close (probably my type of rhythm). Focusing and Dreams - Very helpful. Used the image to reflect on various life questions. Fun with words - good fun. The collaborative poem was a new idea for me - very good, instructive. 1:1 time: Didn't think I would need a 1:1 at start of the week by Wednesday morning realised it would be good to chat. Thanks for organising this - for your flexibility. Massage - never had one before - brilliant! Food: Excellent. Hospitality: Excellent. Videos: Well done Richard!
... of the sensitivity of the staff and their desire to provide what I needed at the last minute. The opportunity not to have to make any effort with anyone was wonderful and has enabled me to get back to work after a bereavement ...
... the space and attention to detail was held in such balance. A frame-work of activities, but no compulsion to join in. Time for yourself and God. Held in a secure environment. Guides on hand if needed, but the choice is yours. You will not be fussed over. The team of volunteers that gave so freely of themselves for us, providing hospitality, good food and care. Nothing was too much trouble. Got back in touch with my body. 3 words to sum up my visit: refreshment, revival, held. Accommodation and facilities: the whole space was excellent. [Webeditor:and will be even better - see future plans.] Worship: simple, effective, space to be. Workshops: the balance of workshops was excellent. I chose to participate in all three. Rhythm of Life - so enjoyed the group dynamics, exploration of sound, communicating without words. Focusing and Dreams - gave me tools and structure to take forward my thinking re the next stage of my ministry so effective. Fun with Words - nearly did not go. Unsettled, afraid of making a fool of myself, but discovered new things about myself and was intrigued to find how releasing this workshop was, although more for others than me. 1:1 time: hardest part, but I would have come back if I needed to. Massage: a new experience, pleased I had the opportunity. Food: excellent. Hospitality: excellent. Videos: thoroughly enjoyed. Many many thanks.
... the opportunity for "shop-talk free" fellowship - discovering who people are - rather than just what they do. 3 words to sum up my visit: re-creation, peace, fellowship. Accommodation and facilities: luxurious. Grounds and site: place of peace/re-creation. Worship: a pleasure to receive communion without "sacrifice of worship" involved in presidency. Workshops: Rhythm of Life - most enjoyable - could "let go ... " Food and hospitality: wonderful to be "waited on".
... it gave me a chance to relax and do what I wanted to do. 3 words to sum up my visit: relaxing, refreshing, peaceful. Accommodation and facilities: the Pig Pens are comfortable and well equipped. Grounds and site: enjoyed walking and the good views. Food and hospitality: very good.
... being given the time and space to relax and enjoy the facilities and activities, but with no pressure. Particularly enjoyed joining the regular cycle of community prayers and being able to spend time alone in the Old Chapel. The glorious weather - mid-February - was an added bonus! 3 words to sum up our visit: we'll be back! Accommodation and facilities: very comfortable. Tamworth Pig Pen was lovely ... Worship: Communion on Thursday led wonderfully by Jeremy, thank you. Library: larger fiction selection would be good. Workshops: Rhythm of Life - very enjoyable. Food: excellent. Hospitality: excellent - not being allowed to do anything takes some getting used to!
~ the ethos of care from the community and volunteers was remarkable.
~ the 'permission' to relax and do as little as I wanted was huge.
~ my husband 'un-wound' which was the whole point of coming! 3 words to sum up my visit: I'll come again! Accommodation and facilities: the Pig Pen was warm, comfortable, clean and nicely decorated. Grounds and site: beautiful grounds, obviously well-looked after, also all the buildings. Worship: simple, contemplative and very helpful. Workshops: Rhythm of Life - great fun! Fun with Words - thought provoking and fun. Food: the heart-shaped scones for tea on Valentine's Day were a lovely touch. Hospitality: fantastic. Videos: a good choice. Other: I came back home rested and refreshed after a lovely week.
... of the relaxing, peaceful atmosphere. 3 words to sum up my visit: I'll come again! Grounds and site: always good. Stunning location. Library: good. Workshops: Rhythm - enjoyed this one. 1:1 time: excellent. Everything else: excellent.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... would have been nice if there was a more practical workshop. Craft of some kind - stained glass work?
~ I didn't have to keep looking at my watch
~ I didn't have to keep checking my diary
~ I was really well looked after - meals magically appeared and washing up disappeared
~ I could read, sit, watch the birds, uninterrupted
~ I could read in the beautiful views and enjoy walking through them
~ I could forget about 'doing' and 'be'. Thank you. 3 words to sum up my visit: relaxing, refreshing, restoring. Accommodation and facilities: very thoughtfully arranged - warm comfortable, peaceful - all you needed. Grounds and site: beautiful surroundings, everything well maintained and looked after - lovely mixture of garden and "wilderness". Worship: good time to reflect and to receive. Thank you. Workshops: Rhythm of Life - good fun, and time to do something I otherwise wouldn't make time for. Good playing (in both senses!) together. Fun with Words - quite hard work but enjoyable - 2 hours went very quickly, and I have a little writing to show for it! 1:1 time: helpful - gave me things to think about. Massage: was blissful - loosened up bits I hadn't realised were tight and reminded me I needed to breathe! Food: excellent - good variety. Deliciously home cooked everything. I love the chutneys and preserves. I'm collecting the recipes. Hospitality: couldn't be better - unobtrusive care, kindness and thoughtfulness. Videos: good contrast - Atonement seriously excellent. Willy Wonka weird, but fun. Other: just thank you all for time to put work aside and just be and do what I wanted to!
... it meant I could "escape" where only a few people knew where I was - I could talk/not talk with the others and the "ban" on church life chat was great - because I was unwell for three days meant that I received care beyond the call of duty - at no time was I made to feel a burden, in fact the reverse! 3 words to sum up my visit: memorable, kindness, pampering. Accommodation and facilities: couldn't be faulted. Grounds and site: beautifully maintained (only wish I could have explored a little more!) Worship: the Communion service was very sensitively led (again I was prevented from other worship). 1:1 time: I didn't need this and would have gone for a massage, but declined because of my leg. Food: being single, it was a real treat to have delicious food put before you. Hospitality: excellent. Videos: we all made two good choices!
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... I had been well! - it would have been good to actually find out a little of the history of Carl/Sarah and the rest of the team - (for example, I married Carl and Sarah off before putting "my foot in it").
... Sheldon is such a beautiful place; and this week we have experienced its wildness, its darkness, its special beauty in sunshine. The buildings in their innocent simplicity create a spiritual environment very helpful to a retreat. Accommodation and facilities: congratulations - superb (except bed - see below!) Grounds and site: quite exceptional. Worship: Chapel very unusual. A very successful blend of modern and tradition. Services very lovely - simple, sincere, deep. Library: excellent. Workshops: Focusing and Dreams - the half-session I went to was very helpful. Fun with words - very helpful. Great fun too. Togetherness grew. 1:1 time: the most important and helpful part of the week. Thank you. Food: wonderful, congratulations! Hospitality: wonderful. Videos: watched several - much appreciated. Other: One address per day might have helped the week along, and helped to focus prayer and reading.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... a) I appreciate that there just isn't room for a bigger bed, but the quilt was quite tiny! Suggest upgrade asap. [Webeditor: see future plans.] b) need to clarify what clergy "shop" is, and isn't. People were very inhibited about talking about themselves and their ministry. How can you service a "no-go area"? A great privilege to spend quality time at a place of great beauty. Perhaps a little too private.
... of the space, anonymity to just be. The creative writing course and the focusing/dreams course were great fun and useful. The massage and Jacuzzi just made the week for me. Thank you. 3 words to sum up my visit: relaxing/unwinding/restoring.
I would have found my week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... only problem I encountered was trying to get my towel dry post Jacuzzi, as if I covered the radiator with it, the room got cold - is there somewhere to dry things?
... It's a tried and tested blend of freedom, support and opportunity. 3 words to sum up my visit: God Bless Sheldon! Accommodation and facilities: bed not brilliant - otherwise great. [Webeditor: see future plans.] Worship: Thanks to Ian for the Celtic night prayer and to Jim for a Eucharist with ample and appropriate silence. Workshops: Fun with words - very liberating. 1:1 time: just right balance of empathic listening and challenge. Food: fab - as always. Hospitality: fab. Videos: I was enticed.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... I really thought there would be a tick-list approach like a car service - oil, fan-belt, spark plugs ... So the liberty of the approach took me by surprise a bit.
Thank you for a refreshing stay ... As well as giving me space to read and reflect, I found it a creative and constructive time. I wrote a hymn tune (thanks for the use of the keyboard) and did some constructive thinking and praying about future ministry priorities. The 'no shop talk' rule works well too and I enjoyed the conversations we were able to have more because of this.
~ the facilities, food and friendly atmosphere were good
~ the workshops helped me relax and reflect
~ there was space to read, walk, write, compose music and enjoy the beautiful setting. 3 words to sum up my visit: space, care, creativity.
I would have found my week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... the temperature of the rooms (particularly bedrooms) had been one notch lower.... maybe I'm used to operating at a lower temperature than most. But, I felt uncomfortably warm in my bedroom, and had to open the window much of the time. I realize people need to be comfortable warm, but given the need to reduce our carbon footprints, would it make sense to review the heating levels, and attempt to drop it a notch or two? Would you also consider putting on your list of 'wanted items' a better keyboard/piano with a full range of keys (7 octaves) and sounds? Your current one could well be a collector's item, but has severe limitations!
... There was a warm, gentle, caring welcome in a warm, gentle caring environment with just enough programme and just enough space. No pressure from anyone else meant I felt no need to put pressure on myself and that was so important. It was lovely to be ministered to! 3 words to sum up my visit: cosy - comfy - challenging! Accommodation and facilities: so clean! Really comfortable. How come I never had to queue for the bathroom????!! Grounds and site: gorgeous - site a cross between somewhere in Portugal and Sweden (buildings). Grounds lovely to walk in. Great sheep! Worship: very much appreciated the silence. Library: splendid selection of books. Made me feel that may be my reading tastes aren't so weird after all! Workshops: Focusing and Dreams - focusing rather raked up for me an issue I wanted to leave behind - my own fault, not Daphne's. Dreams part very helpful. Gentle Touch - did not attend, I'm afraid, so no comment. Fun with Words - only went to first half (jacuzzi late morning), but wished I could have stayed. 1:1 time: very good, special thanks to Ian. Affirming, encouraging, challenging! Food: yum! So grateful for being catered for so daringly as the only veggie. Hospitality: so nice to be met and shown to my room, rather than just being pointed in the right direction. Videos: just the right balance of frivolity and profundity - lovely to just sit down and watch a film. Other: just a really, really great time, thank you. You've given me something I never want to lose. Thank you.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... dunno!!! Only very silly, small things like opening the bar after the evening meal rather than before! (Not important!)
... it had a fairly non-pressurised routine, gave me lots of space and yet offered group and one-to-one sessions if I wanted them. 3 words to sum up my visit: space, rest, refreshment. Accommodation and facilities: excellent. Grounds and site: beautiful. Worship: simple. Inspiring chapel. Library: had everything I was looking form. Workshops: Focusing and Dreams - I'm no good at dreaming! Gentle Touch - didn't go. Fun with Words - good. 1:1 time: useful. Food: good. Hospitality: good, but not smothering. Videos: interesting selection!
... Sheldon is a special place to stay at. 3 words to sum up my visit: safe, relaxing, happy. Accommodation and facilities: excellent (Pound House room 3). Grounds and site: beautiful. Worship: only went to Thursday evening communion which was very special. Library: good. Workshops: didn't attend. 1:1 time: good - thanks for your help and guidance. Food: excellent. Hospitality: excellent. Videos: ok.
... it enabled me to relax properly, away from the demands of the diary. I was able to put aside all distractions of the normal busy working week. Within this relaxed, safe, environment I was able to get closer to God and concentrate on repairing my prayer life. 3 words to sum up my visit: very, very valuable. Accommodation and facilities: the bedroom in the Long Barn was very cramped, there was no wardrobe. It is a noisy place too; floors creek, footsteps resound, voices are heard. An alarming note in the upstairs toilet - could cause constipation!! [Webeditor: see future plans.] Grounds and site: very well kept, lovely flowers. Grass rather long in the walking areas of the fields. Worship: a privilege to share in the Community's daily prayer, so simple and sincere - nice that it washes over one. The HC service very meaningful, the initial silence good. The personal prayer at end helpful. 1:1 time: very helpful. Thank you Sarah for the CD which I will use. Food: excellent. Hospitality: excellent. Videos: good selection. Other: I think the 'no clergy shop talk' is a very necessary part of the 12,000-mile Service. To relax this rule, which at least one participant was suggesting, would be a grave mistake. We would bore one another and probably we would be burdened, when we are there to let burdens go!
... it was a wonderful time must to be able to step back, relax, think, walk and enjoy the lovely surroundings and the hospitality, and not be responsible for anything or anyone! The 'no shop rule' is excellent and we did stray into it at times, but only on the humorous side - some found it hard to let go and without the rule would have been too intense at times. 3 words to sum up my visit: quietly touched by God. Accommodation and facilities: very good. Grounds and site: wonderful. Worship: the reflective quiet worship was just right - we can be too wordy. Workshops: Fun with words - this was very good. Art and Craft - enjoyable. Food: very good. Hospitality: very good. Videos: fun.
~ space
~ your facilities, approach and staff/volunteers
~ embodied something of the graciousness, beauty and hospitality of God.
3 words to sum up my visit: restful and reflective. Grounds and site: lovely. Food: simple, nutritious - excellent.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... as a group we'd been more disciplined about "no shop talk". To help this, I wonder if staff/volunteers giving conversation "starters" at meal times would have helped. The fact that so many of us couldn't resist "shop talk", I suspect is not a good sign - perhaps clergy need to broaden horizons!!
... from the outset, I felt this was a safe and good place. Skillful counselling helped me to resolve a longstanding issue. The grounds and views were simply beautiful. There was a sense of space and unhurry. Everything was optional. The lovely chapel was always open. There was a good balance between structure and free time. The company was congenial. 3 words to sum up my visit: affirmation, illumination, care. Accommodation and facilities: superbly comfortable room with a stunning view. Grounds and site: ample space, well-maintained, huge variety, some lovely imaginative details. Worship: calm, unhurried. Surprising absence of psalmody, singing, evening prayer, compline. Library: comfortable, but cramped. Workshops: Art and craft - encouragement and achievement, even for the least artistic. Gentle Touch - excellent. 1:1 time: generous and skilful. Food: high standard, generous quantities. Hospitality: outstanding; so many little acts of kindness and thoughtfulness. Videos: enjoyable. Other: the abilities to have silent breakfasts and borrow wellington boots, made large contributions to the enjoyment of the event.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... the "no clergy shop-talk" rule had not applied on the first evening ... the Eucharistic president had been robed and less casual ... some music had been around to mediate between the words and the silences ... I could have had a massage.
... there was no pressure to do anything. I was able to spend time seeking God, resting, reviewing current problems and seeking a way forward. To be held and supported by the community, staff and volunteers enabled me to feel secure and safe in an environment which was new to me. The other guests made it quite a sociable time as well and as we shared meals and coffee times together, I felt accepted as one of the group. 3 words to sum up my visit: refreshing, renewing, safe. Accommodation and facilities: I thought the building and furniture/fittings were of a very high quality and tastefully put together. Grounds and site: wonderful surroundings and views, but too tired to explore. Worship: reflective - which I prefer. A reading from the bible might have been good to include, but this may have happened in the chapels I did not attend. Library: amazing - I spent a lot of time dipping into books. Workshops: Art and craft - lots if inspiration given at the start, lots of materials and help available - very relaxing, great fun. Gentle Touch - a thoroughly wonderful experience. Philippa took away any thoughts of New Age influence or eastern mysticism. It felt safe and easy - no embarrassment. 1:1 time: very valuable for working through current problems and finding a way forward. I felt 'heard' 'understood' and received more in the way of understanding than I had expected. I am very grateful to have received two sessions and even offered a third. Food: really lovely, especially loved the variety of cheeses. Hospitality: it was very nice to have the staff eat with us at mealtimes and the atmosphere was very welcoming. Videos: did not enjoy the History Boys, but Mrs Henderson presents was good. You have a marvellous selection to suit all tastes. Other: I wrote a list before I left as to what I had got out of my week and it comprised of 20 items!
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... I hadn't been so drained when I arrived. In future, I must plan this into my diary and not leave it until I am close to burnout.
... of the warm welcome, thoughtful hospitality, lack of shop talk, general encouragement to relax. 3 words to sum up my visit: gentle, refreshing, fun. Accommodation and facilities: great - use low energy light bulbs. Grounds and site: beautiful. Worship: the communion service was lacking in warmth eg. eye contact and involvement by the celebrant. Even a pause for reflection following the scripture readings would have helped. Workshops: Art and craft - very free and relaxed. Gentle touch - Philippa was lovely. Fun with words - Richard was great. 1:1 time: very helpful. Food: brilliant. Hospitality: great. Videos: fine. Other: need more sense of energy awareness - see light bulbs above.
... it was an opportunity for some space and relaxation in such a beautiful and peaceful surrounding. There were no demands, but opportunities for involvement in different activities and worship, which were refreshing. 3 words to sum up my visit: enjoyable; relaxing; creative. Accommodation and facilities: first class - really enjoyed the Pig Pen. Grounds and site: 'Away from it all'. Worship: simple and moving. Eucharist - it might have been better to have had a little guidance. What I heard, and what I saw, seemed sometimes confusing/conflicting. Laying on of hands - powerful and uplifting. Workshops: creative and stimulating. Food: excellent. Hospitality: great. Videos: democracy in action!
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... it hadn't ended!!
... you created the space and the welcome that made it possible for us review things in a positive way, so that we can think ahead on what we do together - it really made a huge difference that I came with my wife. 3 words to sum up our visit: soothing, renewing, essential. Grounds and site: wonderful - great to walk around the area too. Worship: good to have this to join in. Lovely communion/prayer at the end. Library: well-stocked! Workshops: Gentle Touch - excellent, very relaxing, plus a great encouragement to try it; Fun with words - excellent, surprised me with my own creativity. 1:1 time: very helpful, thank you. Food: wonderful. Hospitality: brilliant all over.
I would have found this week useful/helpful/enjoyable if ...nothing - it was more than what we needed. We made full use of it - thank you for all those 1:1s and jacuzzis! - we really feel that we have a new lease of life!
... A real treat to come as a clergy wife and a fantastic opportunity to reconnect as a couple. 3 words to sum up our visit: all expectations exceeded. Accommodation and facilities: all excellent. Workshop: Gentle Touch - very gifted instructor. 1:1 time: generous and sensitively handled. Food: astoundingly good! Hospitality: the warmest welcome with minimum fuss.
... very relaxing - very comfortable - beautiful surroundings. 3 words to sum up my visit: relaxing, enjoyable, fun. Accommodation and facilities: good to excellent. Grounds and site: excellent. Worship: - mmm! not sure about this. Library: too small. Workshops: Fun with words - very good; Art and craft - enjoyable. 1:1 time: ok. Food: very good. Hospitality: very good. Videos: good.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... I gather that we were a very 'sociable' 12,000 group - many of us expressed how we might have liked the bar open for longer in the evenings - after supper - it was a nice place in which to sit and chat, but was only available for a short time before supper. Perhaps an option for individual groups could be given and the bar could open say from 8 - 8.30pm as well as 6 - 6.30pm.
... I was given space and permission to be me. The option to just "be" and not do. 3 words to sum up my visit: relaxing, pampered, special. Accommodation and facilities: Pig pen was lovely - very comfortable, private, good having en-suite. Lovely amount of light in the day and seat outside with good view - no need to go further if we didn't want to. Ground and site: peaceful and enjoyed the walks. Worship: found chapel very peaceful and Eucharist on last night was very special. Library: good. Workshops: I enjoyed all the workshops, especially the artwork. They were a good variety. 1:1 time: although I didn't use it - good to know it was available. Food: wonderful - loved the lunchtime soups. Thank you for catering for special diet. Hospitality: excellent - felt really cared for. Videos: ok. Other: the jacuzzi and winning the massage were the icing on the cake! It's good to know you're here and I'm sure we'll be back!
... It gave me a chance to pause and think in a place with a sympathetic atmosphere and good company. 3 words to sum up my visit: renewing, refreshing, happy. Accommodation and facilities: excellent. Grounds and site: clean, tidy, welcoming. Worship: reflecting, meaningful and relaxed. Closing communion full of spiritual ambience. Library: well-stocked and up-to-date books. Workshops: Focusing and dreams - good and helpful; Gentle Touch - enjoyable and affirming; Fun with words - awakening and meaningful. 1:1 time: excellent and thought provoking. Food: delicious and plentiful. Hospitality: welcoming and helpful. Videos: great fun. Other: this has been a valuable time for me at a transitional time in my life. Thank you.
I would have found this week for useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... there was a little more spiritual input.
... It was so extremely relaxing. The other guests were generally very good company and the volunteers were so kind and attentive. The balance between things to do and time to do nothing worked very well for me. The food was wonderful and it was a very good time of year to be here as the flowers, leaves etc were stunning. So wonderfully quiet at night. 3 words to sum up my visit: fun, restful (and very) interesting. Accommodation and facilities: lovely rooms and very comfortable bed. The spa pool is a great facility as is the very healing massage. Grounds and site: beautiful grounds and the plantings are maturing nicely. Worship: excellent - paced just right. The communion and the laying on of hands for healing was extremely affirming and moving. Library: very well stocked and very good selection of books. Workshops: Focusing and Dreams - interesting and new to me. Gentle Touch - really enjoyable and confirmed some of my existing thoughts and actions. Fun with Words - I was sorry to have missed it as the feedback from the others was so good. 1:1 time: extremely helpful - I sorted out the concerns I had 1) about applying for a new job and 2) a very difficult colleague and my responses to him. Food: fabulous and interesting variety - but I ate too much! Hospitality: above and beyond that which could be expected, the team have been so welcoming and warm. Videos: a bit of fun ... loved the salted popcorn. Other: there was someone who hogged the phone 2 night's running, but what the heck?! (I just stayed up later).
I would have found this week even more enjoyable if ... we had had thicker toast for breakfast and had lasted 24 hours longer!
... It was a chance to unwind, spend time together as a couple and address some issues. No shop talk House rule is good, if challenging for some to adhere to at times! 3 words to sum up your visit: Relaxing, pampered, positive. Accommodation and facilities: very comfortable, especially appreciated the ground coffee and cafetiere. Grounds and site: lovely as ever. Worship: night-time prayers just right. Good to be able to join in the daily rhythm of worship. Workshops: All helpful in different ways. Discovered I can write poetry! 1:1 time: very useful, thank you for the tapes. Food: excellent as ever, and plenty of it. Hospitality: team were all most helpful. Videos: enjoyable - popcorn and chocolates especially appreciated!
... I could be me without work pressures constantly bombarding me (phone, email, door bell etc). It gave me space to read (non-theological books) and to get out and about to enjoy God and His creation. 3 words to sum up my visit: fulfilled my expectations. Accommodation and facilities: excellent - no complaints. Grounds and site: excellent. Worship: very different to what I'm used to. Library: adequate. Fun with words workshop: excellent. Thoroughly enjoyed. Food: excellent. Catered to my special needs. Hospitality: excellent. Videos: only saw The Queen - very good and enjoyable.
~ Space for relaxation
~ Good food
~ Peaceful, supportive, friendly
Accommodation and facilities: better storage for clothes would be helpful. Grounds and site: beautiful. Worship: quiet and acceptable. Library: good mix of books and CDs. Workshops: good. 1:1 time: helpful. Food and hospitality: good. Videos: good choice.
... It was very relaxed and relaxing. The largely free Monday was a brilliant idea and by Tuesday I was already feeling better. The short meeting with Carl and Sarah helped focus things and the session with Daphne really helped. 3 words to sum up my visit: relaxing, inspiring, distilling(!) Accommodation and facilities: good as ever. First time staying in Long Barn, so obvious comments, but a nice room and I was glad others could enjoy the other rooms. [Webeditor: see future plans.] Grounds and site: excellent. Worship: only attended some evenings/nights/eucharist, but very refreshing. Library: very good. Workshops: Focusing and Dreams - very good. Fun with Words - excellent. 1:1 time: as I said, very helpful, especially as part of a longer process. Food: sublime. Hospitality: gentle, but very caring. Videos: so much for democracy! Other: Poultry doing fine - enjoyed a chat with them. Loved seeing badgers. Some of Hilary's sheep gave me funny looks!
... It gave me time to engage with my enneagram profile - towards the end I met some other guest who I really clicked with. Accommodation and facilities: appreciated my room and bathroom next door, flowers in room, jacuzzi and loved the chapel. Grounds and site: beautiful, well kept. Worship: bit samey, given all the different personalities and traditions of guests present. Felt odd to be using ASB - appreciated laying on of hands. Library: brilliant selection - very impressed. Workshops: Focusing and Dreams - found the 'focusing' ideas helpful ... and am still thinking about the dreams. Gentle Touch - didn't feel safe enough to try this - who would I be paired up with? Wasn't clear in advance. Fun with Words - well led, but still not sure of why it is 1 of 3 workshops at a 12,000.1:1 time: would have valued a better intro into it ... eg. boundaries, how often we could meet, supervision etc. Food: fine - choc mints after the meal would have been good! Hospitality: the volunteers were really helpful. Videos: fine. Other: enjoyed the walks. Appreciated table cloths for last meal and candles.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ...
~ we'd seen more of Carl and Sarah and had the chance to learn from workshops led by them. But realise they are very busy - sad, though.
~ if hadn't been called a 12,000-mile service - it made me feel I was coming to something else - I feel like I've been on a retreat, but I was expecting something else ... retreat has been fine though!
I think it would be good to advertise the 12,000 to younger clergy too ... if possible.
... I had time and space to do what I wanted to do in good company and without pressure to do anything. For personal reasons, I kept myself to myself and listened to music, teaching tapes etc which I needed. The accommodation, food etc is first class. Thanks for everything. 3 words to sum up my visit: rest, peace, loved.
I would have found this week more enjoyable if ... only two small points -
~ People are reminded to use the bathroom strip lights at night. One night the extractors worked all night!
~ Any chance of a small kettle/tea machine in the bedrooms? [Webeditor: sorry, no, but always welcome to help yourself in the kitchen]
... I needed the opportunity to rest. No mobile 'phone reception, particularly beneficial. The holistic approach at Sheldon - eg. through use of massage etc, made me feel cherished and appreciated. Occasionally I felt frustrated - but that was probably part of the "letting go" process. 3 words to sum up my visit: oasis, soothing, refreshing. Accommodation and facilities: excellent and comfortable, especially jacuzzi/treatment rooms. Loved the flowers in the rooms and pampering touches. Grounds and site: excellent. Worship: sometimes frustrating and boring (as much because of extreme contrast to my churchmanship) except Holy Communion/laying on of hands = wonderful. Library: excellent. Workshops: Focusing and Dreams - this didn't do a great deal for me, but I expect other people enjoyed it. Gentle Touch - Philippa excellent, encouraging, enabling and professional. Fun with Words - Great fun - Richard very delightful enabler who drew out our skills and made me want to write with huge enthusiasm. 1:1 time: I did not take advantage of this. Food: excellent and served most delightfully by volunteers. Hospitality: excellent. Videos: good choice. Other: I am glad I came - I feel ready to re-engage with my responsibilities.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ...
the worship was very different to my usual style/churchmanship and I occasionally found it difficult to engage with the daily offices. We are somewhat louder/more exuberant in style and I missed singing! The Communion service/laying on of hands was very special - thank you Jeremy and Sarah!
... This week enabled me to have some space, some thinking and reflecting time. I also appreciated the jacuzzi and full body massage experience as it was totally new for me and I feel that this really helped me to be able to relax and unwind. 3 words to sum up my visit: calming, creative, thought-provoking. Accommodation and facilities: in the Long Barn - although the room was small, it was my own space and the view I could get from the 'top' bunk was wonderful. [Webeditor: see future plans.] Appreciated the 10.30pm rule of silence - especially as the TV in the Long Barn is in the lounge (directly under my bedroom). Grounds and site: beautiful setting. Plenty of space to roam around and find quiet spots. Worship: although I enjoyed the prayer outline, it would have been good to have had other forms of liturgy used - perhaps Celtic as this is so accessible and reflects the creation that is in splendour around us. The Communion service with laying on of hands was beautiful and powerful. So pleased to have been part of this service. I would have liked music as well as silence in the worship times. Library: excellent. It was wonderful being able to borrow books for my stay. The wide and varied selection of books meant being spoiled for choice. Workshops: Gentle Touch - brilliantly and thoughtfully led. This was a real adventure and yet was led so sensitively that everyone could feel at ease. Didn't attend other workshops. 1:1 time: good to be able to share and reflect with someone. Food: excellent. Hospitality: excellent. Nothing was too much trouble. I felt looked after and cared for in a sensitive and thoughtful way. Videos: lovely to have video evenings and with popcorn too! Other: organised walks - it was energizing to be able to explore the beautiful countryside around. Thank you for providing for my need for music - the loan of the CD player and CD really helped me in my being able to relax and draw close to to God. Thank you for your thoughtful and caring ways.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... there could have been an opportunity for spiritual input through the offer of some kind of workshop. Or if those who were interested could have gathered together for prayer perhaps.
~ it gave me the time and space to stop - think - pray - rest - reflect
~ great ground rules: no shop talk and freedom from any expectations
3 words to sum up my visit: restful, refreshing, quiet. Accommodation and facilities: excellent. Clean and fresh - everything's well cared for. Grounds and site: beautiful! Library: very glad to read Henri Nouwens "Show me the Way". 1:1 time: it was helpful to chat with Daphne ... she asked some good questions. Food: EXCELLENT ! Thank you. Hospitality: I felt very spoilt - very warmly welcomed and cared for. Other: the jacuzzi and massage were heavenly! Many many thanks.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... I could have stayed longer!
... I arrived here having had a particularly stressful period in ministry (an AGM earlier in the day!) and as soon as I settled in my stress levels began to decline! This is probably the most luxurious retreat I've ever been on - and the Christian service provided has been first class!
3 words to sum up my visit: Affirming, generous,, tenderhearted.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... NO ADVICE - it really was 10 out of 10.
... Gave me space, rest, relaxation, time for me. No external demands. Good weather. Great site and environment. Accommodation and facilities: very adequate. [Webeditor: see future plans.] Grounds and site: A+++++++ !! Worship: how about moving from ASB to the Anglican Franciscan Book "Celebrating Common Worship". 1:1 time: Jim was very helpful and compassionate and wise. Food: Doesn't come much better than this!! Hospitality: first class and unobtrusive. True servant ministry.
... helpful as it gave space to reflect on future ministerial roles.
3 words to sum up my visit: reflective, open (and) refreshing. Accommodation and facilities: good and practical. Grounds and site: lovely. Worship: helpful. Library: there are no books on leadership, that I could find. Workshops: Focusing and Dreamwork - useful. 1:1 time: didn't use this as my "issues" were practical and personal. Food: good. Hospitality: helpful. Videos: nice. Other: overall, I found this useful and I have been to Sheldon before when in crisis.
I would have found this week more useful if ... the workshops were more thought based, and geared towards spirituality.
... I am travelling from stipendiary ministry to early retirement and needed to mark the movement. The focus was beneficial as my stress displayed in several somatic symptoms.
3 words to sum up my visit: relaxed, purposeful, refocused.
... there was freedom to spend time, or waste it, as I chose. I was able to address an issue that I see now in a different light. We were well looked after in a non-intrusive way.
3 words to sum up my visit: stress-free, bountiful, necessary. Accommodation and facilities: bed a bit narrow, otherwise brilliant. [Webeditor: see future plans.] Workshops: Gentle Touch - very good. Focusing the Dreamwork - very good. Added a useful dimension to my 1 to 1. 1:1 time: excellent. Thank you, Mary. Food: very good. Hospitality: very good. Videos: enjoyed the one I saw. Other: nice to have a communal jigsaw on the go.
I would have found this week more enjoyable if .... I hadn't been so tired when I arrived.
... relaxed without any pressures or obligations. (The only "obligation" being that if I was going to miss a meal - then to let folk know for catering purposes.) Free to be Quiet - or to join in conversation. Free to roam (locally or further afield) - or to be quiet in several comfortable areas. Space to reflect, assess, wonder, think in and pray and absolute confidentiality of staff/volunteers is good.
3 words to sum up my visit: relaxing; refreshing; renewed. Accommodation and facilities: bedroom was weakest area of satisfaction, but facilities were good overall. [Webeditor: see future plans.] Grounds and site: sense of quiet and peace throughout. Worship: helpful, but not intrusive. Supportive. Library: another oasis of quiet. Workshops: Gentle Touch - good. Non-threatening - opening up of this area. Focusing and Dreamwork - less helpful! 1:1 time: useful. Not clear in advance that 1:1 time would be with the volunteer team. I felt this could have been more incisive. Food: excellent. Hospitality: the gentle, non-intrusive service of all the volunteers was exemplary. Videos: I enjoyed these. Other: recommended refreshment.
I would have found my week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ...
~ My assumption that Carl and Sarah (being the up front names associated with Sheldon) would be playing a more major role - was wrong. Perhaps the Sheldon brochure would be clearer about its dependence on volunteers for weeks like this. [Webeditor: Carl and Sarah were indeed playing major roles in the week, but 12,000s could not be run without the input by our very experienced, able and well-qualified volunteers]
~ Accommodation expectations - I was given a room on a floor when it seemed initially one bathroom would be shared between six or more guests. The bathroom on ground floor was accessed through a public area. However, in practice, there were no real problems - or difficulties with congested bathroom etc. [Webeditor: see future plans.]
... I had time just to be and not to have to do. The things I did were what I wanted to do. There was no pressure and I wasn't in any way responsible for anyone else. As my stress was relieved, so I could get closer to God. There was just enough of an organised programme to prevent it getting boring or lonely. It was so peaceful (specially the old chapel) and so relaxing (specially the jacuzzi). Everyone was friendly and made me feel as if I mattered. Thank you so much.
3 words to sum up my visit: Just what ( I ) needed.
Accommodation and facilities: comfortable and adequate, if a little sparsely furnished. I twice walked into the toilet-roll holder in the bathroom between rooms 5 & 6, giving myself nasty bruises and broken skin. It needed to be resited or replaced with a smaller one, or both. [Webeditor: see our plans for the Long Barn.] Jacuzzi was wonderful. Grounds and site: absolutely beautiful, especially daffodils. A peaceful place to sit. Good to have so much space to walk. Worship: very helpful especially the silence. A bit formal and not free enough for my choice normally, but just right this week. Library: useful and well equipped. Good to have jigsaws etc as well as books. Workshops: Playing with Paint and Clay - quite fun and non-threatening. Working in silence was good. Gentle Touch - Didn't go - not my type of thing at all. Focusing and Dreamwork - interesting. I would have preferred the whole thing to be on dreams, with more time for questions and discussion, but the first part was useful. 1:1 time: extremely helpful. I felt accepted and listened to. It would have been nice to have had a short prayer as well. Food: excellent. Even better if there had been "real" coffee at coffee time. It was good having the silent breakfast table and it would have been helpful to have a latest time for breakfast. Hospitality: good. It would have been better to have had the chance to arrive before dark - say 5pm onwards - even if we just sat in the lounge if rooms weren't ready. The last part of the journey was very stressful. If guests are being pampered it might be better specifically to say don't strip the beds rather than suggesting that they could. Videos: first one not my type of thing - would have preferred something lighter and colourful. Second one excellent.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... the 'no shop talk' rule was good, but the way the staff enforced it wasn't. They should be more gentle and tactful in their reminders rather than snapping at people across the meal table as if they were naughty children, especially as often it wasn't shop talk just the mention of a word that could have been. I often kept away from other guests for fear of saying the wrong thing. It was particularly hard at first, before we could talk about things we'd done - walks, massage etc.
... there was sufficient and varied structure to give stability and sufficient space to explore issues, dig deeper or just relax. Good balance of materials, groups, personalities. Accommodation and facilities: excellent. Grounds and site: lovely. Worship: just what I needed. Library: a signing in/out for books might save losses. Workshops: Focusing and clay - these could each have been a session in their own right: dreams/focusing is too wide for one session. Maybe dreams + art and focusing + clay? Or similar. Sound and silence - this was too thin for me. It was noise that went on and on. I would have liked more structure - but the confines of the space limited what could be done. Fun with Words - great. Sensitive approach, enabled a huge amount of creativity. 1:1 time - this has drawn so much together and really been a healing time giving hope. I hugely value the insights and sensitivity with which they are offered. Food - wonderful! Hospitality - you have offered everything I could wish for and beyond. Videos - good selection. Some Dr. Who would also be good.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if .... people didn't keep asking "where are you from?" - including staff on occasion! Not a good mealtime topic if you want to remain anonymous.
~ it gave me space to think things through
~ a lovely peaceful, undemanding atmosphere
~ stimulation and enjoyment in the workshops
~ support and understanding
Accommodation and facilities: excellent. My second time in the same room, which I love. Worship: quiet and peaceful. Workshops: Focusing and clay - most useful. Fun with words - really fun. 1:1 time - extremely helpful and constructive. Food - good. Videos - not what I would want to see.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... shop talk had not been totally banned - it would have been easier to talk to people if we could have been able to ask a little about job and geography. I found it difficult to know where to start without that.
... I really felt able to just do what I wanted to do - no sense of 'Big Brother'. Grounds and site: lovely. Worship: needed more styles. Library: good, especially DVDs. Workshops: Focusing and clay - very helpful. Fun with words - excellent. Food: wow! Too much. Excellent. Hospitality: good. Videos: good. Other: bed a bit narrow. Enjoyed the en-suite - what a lovely surprise.
~ it was relaxing
~ thoughtful
~ very easy going.
Grounds and site: very well kept and rooms etc exceptionally clean, and very welcoming. Worship: simple and peaceful. Library: would like a study table(s). Workshops: Focusing and clay - rather wishy washy. Sound and silence - good fun. Fun with words - excellent. 1:1 time - excellent, thank you so much. Food: good. Hospitality: good. Videos: excellent.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... there had been less people.
... It was a rare chance to rest and relax in safe and pleasant surroundings amongst warm and friendly people. It was very much 'time out'. It gave me the opportunity to experience and enjoy skills that had either laid dormant or had got buried under busyness. Accommodation and facilities: bed was superbly comfortable. My room was very small, and do feel that there should be some price differential if one is unfortunate enough not to have en-suite. I had actually expressed a wish for comfort, but this was not addressed. [Webeditor: see our future plans for the Long Barn.] Grounds and site: beautiful, clean, inviting, a wonderful place to feel comfortable and relaxed. Worship: much appreciated, but not deep enough for me. (I didn't go to morning prayers) Library: very good - really appreciated the comfy chairs. Workshops: Focusing and clay - excellent! Sound and silence - excellent! Fun with words - excellent! 1:1: this was very helpful for me, and amazing to be able to have so much time offered. Thank you. Food: delicious! and thank you for meeting my dietary needs so well. Hospitality: everyone was very kind and helpful. Videos - really enjoyed 'slobbing' in front of the telly! After night after night of meetings, it made a wonderful change! Other: massage was great!
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if... I had been spiritually refreshed. The refreshment of the body was wonderful, but feel that clergy, giving out week after week, not only emotionally, but spiritually and theologically need some spiritual inspiration and refreshment to restore the soul. I would have appreciated some sort of short Biblical or spiritual guidance each day to reflect on and feed on.
~ Everything was done for me/to me - and no question was any trouble.
~ Rooms, facilities, setting excellent.
~ Workshops were just right, space was appreciated - I knew my spiritual agenda and the time and space allowed me to work through it ok. Ticked off everything on the list by the end. Appreciated knowing I could talk if I wanted to.
Accommodation and facilities: very good. Grounds and site: excellent. Worship: Mmm - see below. Spent a lot of time in the old chapel and found the cross and shadow most inspiring. Library: good. Workshops: Focusing and clay - excellent. Sound and silence - didn't go. Jacuzzi and massage - BRILL. Fun with words - excellent. Surprised myself. 1:1 time: ok. Food: brilliant. Hospitality: excellent. Videos: good.
All in all splendid. Thank you.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if.... worship was a bit more creative - but you are Anglican, I'm not, that's ok!
... the balance between being given personal space, and input like workshops, was good. The admin/personal care was quietly efficient. Hospitality and food excellent. Lovely area for walks. I liked the new chapel and its icons and comfort.
Grounds and site: lovely. Worship: a little unimaginative (esp final eucharist - see below). I realise the daily offices are your prayer times, and I enjoyed being part of them. Library: ok. Workshops: Focusing and clay - interesting. Sound and silence - excellent. Fun with words - brilliant. 1:1 time: thank you for arranging this. It was useful. Food: wonderful. Hospitality: excellent. Videos: I enjoyed both. Other: jacuzzi and wonderful massage - great.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if .... I enjoyed the silent breakfast: would it be good to provide a silent lunch and dinner table option too?
It would have been good to have been given the option of a shared peace in the final eucharist - and perhaps a short address.
The loo next to my room was very audible! but that didn't really matter. I don't know what you can do about this anyway in the short term. [Webeditor: see our plans for the Long Barn.]
... it gave me time to just 'Be'. I have drawn closer to God and have been able to understand more clearly what it is He would have me focus on.
Accommodation (see below) and
Facilities: were great. Sheldon was recommended to me as having great accommodation (Linhay). Grounds and site: beautiful and very well maintained. Worship: so different to my 'norm' but extremely enjoyable and meaningful. Library: enjoyed spending time browsing. Workshops: Focusing and clay - thought provoking and useful. Sound and silence - great fun. Fun with words - didn't attend - visited friend in Exeter instead. 1:1 time: didn't access 1:1 time..... Food: superb! Well done Jan and Co! Hospitality: wonderful. Videos: enjoyed them both and the fellowship.
I would have found this week more enjoyable if .... my accommodation had been more comfortable and appropriate. I did not allow it to spoil my stay but it was a disappointment and would cause me to hesitate recommending Sheldon to colleagues/friends. I don't know how accommodation is allocated, but there should be some way of allowance re the huge difference [between cell and Linhay]. [Webeditor: sorry, Linhay Lodges are booked completely separately from programme events. We try to make clear in all our information that the smallest rooms are very small, but everyone is guaranteed a single room. When we have raised the next £1m the Long Barn will be improved. All offers welcome!]
... facilities were superb : nice personal touch to chalet-room [Pig Pen]. Environment breathtaking (Teign Valley) and site and walks. All staff lovely - generous and God's ethos along with 'open' atmosphere. Much appreciated the liberality - though perhaps I was among those to abuse the ecclesiastical/theol talk. Actually, we had 'cracking' fellowship Thursday talking religious issues. I felt we were in danger of misunderstanding your obvious well-intended and subtle/pastoral/clinical rule on 'in-talk'. Will this be inevitable, always? . Is there room for amplification of this policy - or is it ripe for re-examination? [Webeditor: it is a rule of the house everyone signs up to. There are plenty of other retreat houses without this rule if it doesn't suit you. It is frequently re-examined and remains there for good reason.]
Accommodation and facilities: in ensuite room heating very good and bathroom towel heater great. As was facility for personal catering - tea/coffee with milk! Sue's bar was great! Worship: thanks to Helen and Roy particularly. Dignity, gentleness in approach and content. Very helpful. Library: very good facility. Workshops: Focusing and clay - missed it - loved Daphne. Sound and silence - enjoyed. Hurrah for Sue! Fun with words - really wanted to attend, but had practicalities to attend to outside centre. 1:1 time: thank you for laissez-faire - freedom to 'Be'. I read a lot and walked. I think we want 'room' but we also see this week for 'spiritual refreshment'. Food: superb! Hospitality: exceptional.Videos: Cole Porter (music apart) was more depressing than CofE/Anglican 'Gay Debate'!! Dirty Dozen, Magnificent Seven, Hang 'em High, Fist full of Dollars more therapeutic!! (only kidding) Thanks for video entertainment.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if... since no radio or live TV (quite ok) how about at least 'The Times', Telegraph or Independent etc. (not necessarily all) or Church Times, Methodist/Baptist Times. Or is it Thomas Merton/Aquinas/Rowan Williams only ??
More music (background) or (live) group activity or tape if available?
~ of the love and unconditional acceptance of the staff and volunteers.
~ of the good quality accommodation and food.
~ of the beautiful setting.
~ of the ministry of the centre - its staff and overall set-up.
Grounds and site: Great. Very peaceful. Good stiles! Worship: Helpful. I appreciated the simplicity and quiet nature of the workshop. One to one time: Excellent. I was a bit concerned that it would be too intense, but Jim put me at ease and I could talk freely and feel well listened to. Hospitality: Excellent.
Thank you for a fabulous time! Thanks also to Jan for the massage (a new experience to me). God bless you. Being here has been a foretaste of heaven!
... I received healing and courage for the future. I unwound and relaxed. I had space to think and pray (and sometimes cry). I enjoyed feeling safe wandering round - the new fields and wood have made quite a difference. I appreciated having room no.1 in the Pound House - thanks!
Accommodation and facilities: Pound House is lovely. Chairs in the Quiet Room are too big for short people! Grounds and site I like the new areas and the new "Teddy Bear" sheep! Worship It's good to feel not under pressure to attend. This time I only went to the Eucharist; I needed more silence on my own. Library: Comfy - good selection. Workshops: Playing with paint and clay - I went along, but decided it wasn't for me. Gentle Touch - good. I was grateful for Dot's company. I slept 12 hours on Wednesday night! Fun with Words - Excellent. I enjoy words and have done Richard's workshop before. He is very good at creating a safe atmosphere, affirming and non-judgemental. One to one time: Excellent. Thank you Sarah. Food: Excellent. Hospitality: Excellent - gentle and unobtrusive. Videos: Not interested - don't like films. Quite happy to read, pray, knit etc.
~ Relaxed atmosphere
~ Good counselling (one to one ministry)
~ Excellent food
Accommodation and facilities: Pig Pen was more than adequate for my wife and I. Grounds and site: Felt less like a building site - well laid out. Worship: Anglican could have had contributions from other branches from the church. Library: Fortunate to find books to help me to prepare for a forthcoming Bible Study. Workshops: Playing with paint and clay - great encouragement just to relax and experiment in whatever media. Gentle Touch - I wanted to experiment in good learning time with my wife as partner. Fun with Words - enjoyed the workshop, but I think the format could be changed. One to one time: Excellent, well worth having two sessions which helped me explore spiritual and personal problems. Food: Soups a bit spicy. Please offer non-curry variety. Hospitality: Caring, including all members of staff, especially on the reception who were very helpful. Videos: Enjoyable selections shown. Other: I appreciate that my wife was encouraged to be a full participant during the week's activities.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if .... there was a workshop on Spiritual Directorship and one on Prayer Journalling.
~ It was a complete break from work.
~ It enabled me to catch up on sleep and rest.
~ There were no mobile phone calls (no 'signal' here!) - the emergency number is a good idea.
~ You have caring down to a fine art. TLC2!
~ The volunteer team gently helped us steer clear of 'shop talk'.
~ I go back thoroughly relaxed and blessed. Thank you all!
Accommodation and facilities: Lovely! Comfortable and warm. The jacuzzi was a new and pleasant experience. Grounds and site: Just love it here - it's such a beautiful setting and we've benefited from all the new paths etc., as well as the amazing transformation of the Pig Pens. Worship: Good to be able to join in, without any obligation. Workshops: Playing with paint and clay - rewarding time with Tessa - enjoyed new art forms eg. on silk and glass. Gentle Touch - brilliant! Philippa was very encouraging. Something to take home with us. Fun with words - again excellent input. It was fun, but also mind stretching. Food: A great pleasure to have lovely meals set before me each day (sorry I ate more than I need!) Hospitality: Much appreciated. Videos: Please keep these in your 12,000 programme - a treat to relax in front of a film (2 films) together. Other: Enjoyed the fellowship with others here, including discovering the odd piece of jigsaw puzzle! Much appreciated the full body massage.
... It gave space to relax, reflect, read, walk and learn new skills. Very unpressured. Feeling very refreshed and hit on some good reading from the library. Met my expectations and will recommend to Chelmsford Diocese! Accommodation and facilities: Excellent quality (should have read the notice on back of door re: kitchen fan!) Grounds and site: Beautifully maintained and inspiring views. Worship: Nice gentle worship. Particularly valued the night prayers. I personally prefer to see the face of the person leading. Workshops: Playing with paint and clay - very enjoyable. Good sense of achievement. Gentle Touch - useful practical help for ministering to spouse. Breaking new ground. Fun with words - enjoyable. One to one time: Good chance to reflect on church and home life. Food: Good variety, healthy and plentiful. Hospitality: Very warm and caring - felt cherished. Videos: Enjoyable diversion.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... I would have appreciated a night prayer on the Sunday evening of arrival - even if late. Also a short homily at the communion and morning office - perhaps by the warden to give more contact?
... It really is incredible how relaxed and de-stressed I feel after being with you last week. After Jan's ministrations, I've even found a local retired nurse who does massage! Sheldon really is a special place. Thank you for your ministry.
... God is at work at Sheldon. The gifting, insight and expertise of the community. Ideal setting, peaceful. Being the 4th 12,000 I have been on, I am still amazed at the difference less than 1 week can make to my life. Perfect place, perfect programme, quality 1 to 1. Keep up the excellent work.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... it had been 2 weeks instead of 1.
Accommodation, facilities, grounds and site: very good.
Worship: I would have preferred communion to be less C of E structured and the prayer times to include singing and participation. Library: good. Workshops: "Focusing" - helpful. Fun with words - much better than I thought. 1:1 - Excellent. Thank you so much, Sarah. Still putting the good advice into practice. Food - very good.
... You all prayed for me and cared for me spiritually, physically and emotionally. Thank you.
Accommodation and facilities: we were in the Tamworth Pig Pen. The accommodation was good, but we needed more clothes hanging space. Grounds and site: beautiful, safe, secure, peaceful, interesting. Worship: reflective workshop. The "laying on of hands" at the communion service was very special for me. Library: we used the video library. Workshops: "Focusing" - Daphne Norden was excellent. I learnt a lot about myself through this workshop. Helpful and informative. Gentle touch - I enjoyed the workshop. Very relaxing. Fun with words - Richard Skinner made it easy for me to try and be creative with words. 1:1 time - really appreciated this. Thank you. Food and hospitality: excellent. Other: my massage with Jan was very beneficial. I was so relaxed. Thank you.
~ The care and hospitality was thoughtful
~ There was space
~ No clergy talk - we saw each other as human beings first and foremost
~ People quickly knew your name - see below
~ It is a lovely setting, my room was pleasant and the rest was what was needed!
~ I enjoyed using Library and Quiet Room.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ...
~ I wonder whether we could have said our names at the introductory supper
~ A small point - the doors bang in the lobby between the Quiet Room and kitchen and lounge!
... I found this week truly wonderful because .... I am going home feeling about 2 tons lighter, having left behind a lot of baggage that I brought with me. I had high hopes and expectations (and a few fears) about the week. My hopes have been more than met and my fears evaporated within hours of arrival. This place and time have been a true sabbath. Thank you all so very much. God bless your fantastic ministry.
Grounds and site: A "safe" place in every sense. I felt I belonged and really enjoyed having so much walking, sitting and thinking space "on site". Worship: I appreciated the simplicity of the worship (and not having to "do" anything) but I would have liked just a bit more participation in Night Prayer. I found just sitting, listening to someone else read more words didn't give me anything to "get hold of" and I was too tired to concentrate. A simple form of Compline/Night Prayer would have helped me more. Workshops: "Focusing" - I found this very helpful, and it proved very significant for the rest of my week. 1:1 time: The most fruitful part of the week for me. I was most nervous about this part of the week, and also most hopeful, and it has proved to be life changing. Knowing that it was "all in" (ie. we'd already paid for it!) helped because I didn't hold back from using it. Food: fantastic. Hospitality: I can't begin to describe how utterly loved and cared for I have felt, in the simple practical things as well as every other way. Other: So refreshing not having any "shop talk" - by encountering others as simply "people" you get the chance to re-discover yourself as simply a person, not a role.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ....
Tiny suggestion - blackout linings on bedroom curtains? (Just to help give a little longer sleep. I tend to be woken by the light.)
... It helped me relax and unwind, gave me time and space to reflect, think, and pray. I especially enjoyed time in the countryside and in Sheldon's wonderful rural setting, and one to one time. I found the balance of time spent doing workshops/one to one etc, and time and space for myself just right. Accommodation: I found the room in the Long Barn noisy - I could hear clearly noise from other rooms because the walls are very thin. This was not unusual or excessive noise - just normal noises - but heard very clearly and at times when I wanted to rest or sleep. [Webeditor: yes, we know the Long Barn rooms aren't brilliant - bit of a big expensive project to get these sorted, but we're thinking carefully about it. See our future plans.] Grounds and site: wonderful! Worship: Led sensitively, and low key - which was what I wanted. Opportunity for personal prayers for healing at communion service very much appreciated. All helpful. Library: good. Workshops: "Focusing" - Excellent - gave me opportunity to create something which expressed some feelings. Fun with words - Excellent - again gave me some opportunity for creation and fun! 1:1 time: Excellent. Daphne was very helpful and listened well to what I had to say, and that helped me to reach a few conclusions. Food: Excellent. Felt well fed and well looked after! Hospitality: I felt as though I'd come back to a caring and happy place, where I was accepted and supported. Videos: Great choices made by us!
~ I felt really at home here straightaway.
~ I felt a great sense of peace and being held in prayer.
~ The balance between 'doing' and free time was great - it was good to have the option of being with others or not
~ The food was excellent and the massage brilliant.
~ I felt relaxed and de-stressed incredibly quickly.
Accommodation: my room 3 in the Pound House was just right. Grounds and site: beautiful. Workshops: Gentle touch - excellent. Fun with words - excellent. Food: what can I say - excellent, although even I was refusing seconds by the final meal which is saying something! Hospitality: great.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if .... an extra payphone would have been great to avoid those awkwardnesses when you're in the middle of a conversation, but are aware someone else is waiting for the phone.
~ It gave me space and time to rest, relax and reflect in beautiful surroundings.
~ There was complete flexibility.
~ There was a good mix of structured workshops and free time.
~ The atmosphere was welcoming and caring.
Accommodation and facilities: very comfortable. The jacuzzi and massage were a very welcome luxury Grounds and site: beautiful. Worship: uplifting. Library: excellent. Workshops: "Focusing" - thought provoking and useful. Gentle touch - very useful and enjoyable. 1:1 time: helpful. Food: excellent. Hospitality: first rate, a lovely warm welcome and unobtrusive but kindly care throughout. Videos: very enjoyable. Other: I appreciated the guided walks very much. Also the constant availability of fresh fruit and tea/coffee making facilities.
~ It is with other people
~ It is with trained and experienced "staff"
~ The community gives it a good and sound spiritual base
~ It offers the opportunity to be honest about things not easy to share with others
~ The food is great
~ It has a tremendously relaxing atmosphere
Accommodation and facilities: All good - wonderful housekeeping. Worship: Enough. Worship can be a way of dodging the issues. Workshops: "Focusing" - I keep learning that art means more to me than I think. Fun with words - a good exercise for one inclined to be verbose. 1:1 time: Helpful in allowing/helping me to be honest with myself preparing for it is a good exercise. Food: Great - much better than might be expected. Hospitality: Wonderful. Videos: Educating me to try things I usually dismiss.
~ it gave me time to be myself within a framework of daily rhythm.
~ useful - to talk through personal problems
~ enjoyable - a) quiet and space to step back from busyness of life; b) beautiful environment; c) I was challenged in not being able to talk shop, found it difficult, but at the end of the week realised how it had contributed to the enjoyment,
Accommodation and facilities: Excellent, very clean, much better than anticipated. Grounds and site: Clean, quiet, beautiful, enjoyable walks. Worship: peaceful, meaningful. Enjoyed and uplifted by silence. Library: Would have used more if had not brought own books. It looked very interesting. Workshops: Gentle touch - Curiosity made me go, but felt uncomfortable. Appreciate others need/enjoyment of. Fun with words - Excellent. Thoroughly enjoyable. 1:1 time: Very good. Right touch for me. Not too intense or too professional. Food: Excellent. Hospitality: Excellent. Videos: Enjoyed both, though would not have watched either normally. Thank you very much.
... I was quietly but effectively supported in what I needed to do by the place and the whole staff. I usually tend to feel I have to go it alone on retreats. It was good this time not to have to. A special thank you to Daphne for her insight and wisdom in the one to one I had with her.
Accommodation: Lack of a basin in the room a bit trying. [Webeditor: see our future plans.] Grounds and site: Superb - the orchids are unforgettable. Worship: Very focused and supportive. Would have appreciated perhaps one other eucharist. Library: Very useful. Would have used it more as a place if weather had been bad. Workshops: "Focusing" - Very helpful - would have liked more time on the actual art work. Fun with words: Great fun. 1:1 time: Excellent. Food: Just right - loved the soups especially the the local cheeses. Taken several recipes home! Hospitality: Faultless.
... Restorative and friendly. Good programme 'pace' (not too much or little.
I would have found this more more helpful/enjoyable if ... 'possibly', lighter/informal eucharist.
... It gave me permission to think about my own needs, and activities to encourage care for myself. It was within the context of prayer/worship and had a feel that it was about God even if only implicitly sometimes. It gave plenty of time to sleep and rest. Accommodation: very comfortable and warm - felt at home with so many needs (eg biscuits) thought of! Grounds and site: beautiful. Worship: fine/simple - beautiful chapel. Library: good/comfortable. Workshops: Playing with paint and clay - a bit frightening to let myself 'play' among strangers, couldn't get all my creative juices flowing! Gentle touch - probably a bit too short to relax and learn new. Fun with words - good, supportive environment. 1:1 time: helpful, if a little bit brusque - a sense that they didn't want us to lean too much on it. Food: excellent - quality and quantity just right. Hospitality: excellent - superb volunteer helpers. Videos: fun. Massage: good. Thank you for a very special week!
I would have found the week more enjoyable if .... the 'rules' were not quite so intimidating (eg. don't arrive after 8.30 Sunday) - but also it is good that there is clarity in expectations and information is comprehensive and clear and no doubt the community/volunteers need to "protect themselves" from guests! (But it was good that rules on clergy shop talk were enforced) .... the weather had been better!
~ it fulfilled my aim - to feel cared for/nurtured/loved/and 'be'
~ plenty on offer yet no pressure to do ... good variety throughout.
Thank you.
I would have found this week more helpful/enjoyable if ... for people with hearing difficulties the long line layout of dining tables is problematic. Could they be moved apart and at angles to each other with 6 or so per table?
... There was a good balance of doing and not doing. I decided to join in all the workshops, because it would have been more stressful to choose not to; but I am so glad that I did. They were so therapeutic for me; doing something I would not normally do, and the art work I had not done since junior school. I took part in all three workshops and found them all to be most enjoyable in their distinct ways. 1:1 time: I had good food for thought from my session with Carl. Food: very good high standard; most enjoyable. Hospitality: excellent, well cared for and pampered. Videos: enjoyed the social aspect of joining together and watching what I would not normally watch. The guided walks are well presented and easy to follow. The week was just right for me at this time as I/we face the prospect of moving on.
... there was time to be, to sleep, to relax and the opportunity to talk, share and find help in dealing with the complexities of life with someone who has the skills. Accommodation: other than my room, everything was fine. Food: wholesome and good. Worship: could have been a little more 'adventurous' and I understand that orthodox may be appropriate for this week. Playing with paint and clay: very useful and therapeutic. Gentle touch: relaxing. Fun with words: engaging. 1:1 time: excellent. Food: good. Hospitality: very welcoming. Videos: a good way to relax. Thank you - apart from an inappropriate intervention from one of your volunteers, I found the week good for me as I prepare for a new ministry.
I would have found this week more enjoyable if .... I had had a more comfortable bedroom. I found a 6' x 6' bedroom rather claustrophobic. [Webeditor: yes - our smallest rooms are very small, but everyone is guaranteed a single room. See our future plans for the Long Barn.]
... I just wanted to write this short note to say a sincere thank you to you all for an excellent week - I have returned feeling refreshed and affirmed in not just my church ministry, but in my life and activity in general. The time and space and the individual care you gave is much appreciated ...
... the entire week was exactly as advertised! The individual care and attention was exemplary; time and space, food for body and soul, the one to one, the welcome - all made me feel comfortable and valued. The fact that everything was optional took all pressure off and allowed me to shape the week to meet my needs. It was a privilege to share the life of the community. Thank you! I really cannot think of anything that could have improved the experience! Accommodation: warm, comfortable. Grounds and site: the builders at work meant we didn't see it at its best, but even so it is a place of peace. Worship: Gentle, reflective, space to pray. Library: good. Workshops: Fun with words - a pleasurable and creative couple of hours, revealing hidden talents and abilities. 1:1 time: extremely useful. Food: excellent. Hospitality: excellent.
Again thanks for a superb week and for refreshment.
~ the meticulous attention to detail
~ the warmth of the team - real sense of being cared for without being fussed over
~ smooth running and good balance of the programme, built up over years of experience.
Accommodation: very impressed by all that has been achieved since my last visit. I was cosy and snug in my wee room in the Long Barn, Inconvenience of the long trek to the loos was balanced by the luxury of a bath (which I chose rather the jacuzzi). [Webeditor: see our future plans for the Long Barn.] Grounds and site: muddy! I completely failed to follow the map of the grounds, but that made it all the more pleasant a surprise to be led into Dingly Dell by the sound of the wind chimes. Worship: quiet, gentle, just right for me. Workshops: Playing with paint and clay - I appreciated the opportunity to use the paints (not just in workshop time). Would have liked to be led into the workshop a bit more - also to point out that while it can be fun, it can also lead into something deeper. Would have been good to have the opportunity to debrief with team members (though that was there informally). Fun with words - this is the third time I have taken part in this workshop, and I get something new and different out of it every time - just the right balance of guidance and freedom and fun. 1:1 time: This was very helpful for me. Thank you for pairing me with Jim, who stayed with me on a difficult journey and reminded me how powerful and transformative good listening can be. Please thank him for me. Food: wonderful. Fully achieved what you were setting out to do - wholesome and appetising. A real treat - every single meal. Hospitality: second to none. Videos: the process of choosing was fun. I quite enjoyed the one I watched; no strong feelings either way. Other: the massage was a real treat too - I was pleased a) to have got one of the available slots and b) not to have to choose between that and one of the workshops - just a bit anxious at the beginning about both
I would have found this week more enjoyable if ......
~ (predictably!) other participants had taken the "no shop talk" rule seriously. Despite best efforts and frequent reminders from the team, I found myself avoiding the company of others - spending more time alone - because conversation kept drifting back to church even when it didn't I was on edge that it might.
~ there hadn't been the pressure to get up early on the first morning to compete for massage slots. If there are limited places, could there maybe be a draw and then slots could be allocated at leisure? [Wededitor: good idea, we will try this.]
~ (a very minor comment) - I remember the first time I came, there was a welcome card in the room - as if from Mary and Martha welcoming us to their home. I think it included the words on the card in the old chapel. That stayed with me and would be fairly easily done. [Webeditor: reinstated - it had drifted by accident - thanks for the reminder.]
~ Care of team for hospitality was excellent. I have never been to any Christian place where you are waited on like this.
~ I could choose what I wanted to do.
~ Thanks for putting on walks.
Accommodation: Thanks for the extra mattress, though as I go to bed late and sometimes up in the night I was afraid of waking neighbours with squeaky floorboards and noisy bathroom lock. [Webeditor: see our future plans for the Long Barn.] Grounds and site: would have been helpful to get through reception when it was raining. Thanks to Sarah for letting us after communion. Workshops: all excellent. 1:1 time: very helpful. Food: excellent. Hospitality of the team great - thanks to Jan, Mary A, Rosemary and Jim, Jean, Mary, Richard and Hillary, Videos: very good. Thanks for letting us watch an extra one. Massage: excellent.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if .....I think I must have misunderstood something because I thought Sarah's role was pastoral and caring not admin. I tried to speak to her informally twice, but she was busy. Also surprised Sarah and Carl (and Sue) didn't join us for meals - would've liked to get to know them better.
... I arrived with many different worries and new ideas going around in my head, and physically exhausted. I felt the week fed me in body (massage, walks and lots of sleep), mind (extremely helpful dialogues with Richard Skinner and some other lively conversations - not to mention the 'Kinky Boots' DVD) and spirit (through peace, through the sensitivity of community members, and through the prayer life). The end result of the process has been to put my worries and ideas in context and I feel physically great!
Accommodation: Pound House en-suite room excellent. Really good shower! Grounds and site: love the views from the new fields. Worship: I appreciate the fact that it was unfussy and optional. Most of my worship time was staring at the view from the top of the hill! Workshops: Gentle touch - not easy for her with everyone at different skill levels, but Philippa handled it well. I found it very enjoyable. Fun with words - Richard was great - good timing on Thursday, Might not have worked earlier. 1:1 time: short session with Carl and Sarah, very focusing and helpful starter. Two hour sessions with Richard quite different in quality. The first, therapeutic and a great relief ('ok to feel like this about writing'). The second, full of stimulating ideas. Food: Jan and team, you are stars!*** Hospitality: the best. Videos: 'Kinky Boots' was the right film at the right time for this group. Other: of my various visits to Sheldon, all have been positive experiences. This has been the most focused - I have dealt with several specific issues.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ..... I had taken a '12,000' every year!
I felt the balance and timing of workshops and free time were perfectly suited to my needs. Food, as always, was excellent (slimming next week!) The massage from Jan made me feel like I was walking on air! Thank you all.
... the balance feels right. Good rest (excellent rooms) superb food together with chapel services and new people to meet - all help in the healing process. A very special place, led by a very special team. Thank you.
... it gave me some opportunity for refreshment and renewal. It was good to be in a place and with other people who understand the joys and stresses of being a minister today. It was good to be able to read, write letters - and to draw/paint (something I rarely do unless it is for work ie. visual aids!) Accommodation and facilities: I think facilities (toilets, sinks etc) are rather limited for the number of people. [Webeditor: see our future plans for the Long Barn.] Grounds and site: good safe place to walk and wander. Workshops: playing with paint and clay - thanks for providing materials to use at any time. Food: thanks for making vegetarian options easy (sometimes places really seem to struggle!)
I would have found this week more enjoyable if .... I'd been able to sleep a little better - it improved greatly after the first night, but I did find it quite cold at times in the day and in the night in my room. [Webeditor: sorry - we would have turned it up if we had known at the time.] I can see the sense of the 'no clergy shop talk' rule - and I didn't find it at all difficult to not talk about my churches. However, there are clearly some 'grey' areas for some of us when it comes to talking about family/possibilities of moving, houses etc - which is all tied in with what we do. It was uncomfortable to be "monitored" at times - and some of us clergy might actually be quite good at respecting other people's boundaries! [Webeditor: sorry - this was a particularly difficult week on this front, usually it falls into place more naturally.]
... The time it gave me and of a listening ear that was both attentive and also asked the appropriate questions and helped me formulate a strategy for coping better in the future - many thanks. The whole time I have been here has been a great blessing and just what I needed right now. I'm so glad I came.
Room excellent - allowed me to sleep and I hope not disturb others in the nights when I was awake. Missed the conservatory, it was a well lit area for needlework. Grounds give lots of space to wander and even though site works going on, did not detract from time here at all. Worship - peaceful and restorative. Library - useful and interesting choice of books. Workshops: Playing with paint and clay - glad I went, got a lot from it. Space felt a little constricting. Fun with words - hard work as had really relaxed and words are not 'my thing' when I'm relaxed! 1:1 time - excellent, helpful. Mary really listened and her input was very valuable. Food - huge thanks to Jan for all her efforts with special diet. It must have been a pain but I appreciated all the effort. Hospitality was wonderful - everyone was so helpful. Videos - Kinky Boots is a must! Jacuzzi and massage were excellent - so glad this was available. Many thanks. Organised walk - lovely as did not have to organize route and could just enjoy it. The weather could have been a little brighter!
~ The programme was a perfect blend (for me) of activity and space
~ There was a nice feel of being pampered without it being over done
~ I enjoyed the company of everyone I was with on the "service".
Accommodation - just right. Ground and site - the choice of architecture was very good. Make sure the chapel stays simple and icons/pictures don't encroach too much. Its joy is its simplicity. Worship - I did feel a little it was the bare minimum. It was good at the start of the week but ASB morning prayer (shorter form) was a bit thin by Thursday. Workshops: Playing with paint and clay - great fun. Gentle touch - Philippa was lovely. Fun with words - again, great fun. 1:1 time - one interview with Carl. Gave me confidence that if ever I did find myself in crisis, I could use the phone. Food - very good throughout - the Sunday meal was a bit thin (sausage casserole) as I hadn't eaten all day. Hospitality - very good. Videos - very good. Thank you so much.
I would have found this week more enjoyable if .... I had not had toothache for a large part of it!
The bed had been softer and longer - I spent a long time asleep, so it can't have been that bad.
... so much thought and prayer had been put in beforehand to ensure that there was the right space available to think life through and try new activities. Accommodation - fine. Grounds and site - beautiful - excellent walks. Worship - short and profound, loved evening prayer and final eucharist. Library - peaceful. Playing with paint and clay workshop - had so much fun stepping right out of my comfort zone - will treasure what I created. Gentle Touch workshop - very moving and beautiful. Fun with words workshop - fascinating, very well led, amazed by what came out of the final exercise. 1:1 time - affirming, encouraging and supportive. Food - good - I would have enjoyed a cooked breakfast - Thursday evening meal could have been hot as it was a cold night. Hospitality - felt so loved and cared for. Videos - good fun. Thank you for a wonderful week. I have returned with much to think about and am already feeling the benefits of feeding my humanity and spirituality. Fell in love with [my wife] and God all over again.
... it provided us with space to think, to relax, to pray without any pressure. There was enough to structure our day without overwhelming it. I felt very cared for and that it was a real break from normal routines. Thank you so much. Accommodation and facilities - very clean, comfortable, warm and welcoming. Grounds and site - beautiful and well kept. Easy to negotiate, quiet and peaceful. Worship - simple, moving, profound. I especially liked the laying on of hands at the communion service. An inspiring model which deeply moved me. Library - warm, comfortable - good variety of titles. Playing with paint and clay workshop - thoroughly enjoyable to be allowed the freedom to be creative without restraint or criticism. Gentle Touch workshop - enjoyed the opportunity to practice massage - a new experience for me, but great. Fun with words workshop - great fun and inspiring. One to one time - very helpful and a real privilege to be listened to so intently - and with such insight into our situation and personalities. Food - delicious, plentiful, varied - no complaints at all. So grateful to those who prepared it. Hospitality - wonderfully warm and all entrancing. Felt very loved and cared for - nothing was too much trouble. Videos - unfortunately I had seen all those on offer - they were a good choice though.
... It gave me the space I wanted, beautiful scenery,and the chance to walk, try something different. There were no pressures, and there was acceptance. I enjoyed all the workshops. Light fresh food with lots of variety. Thank you all for your care and hard work. I hope to feel the benefits into the future.
... I had time and space to step aside and consider where I was in my life and ministry and what I might do next. Accommodation and facilities were excellent. All three workshops were good fun, helpful, instructive and allowed me to "play" - don't get much chance to do this at home. 1:1 time was very helpful - thank you! Food - first rate. Hospitality - couldn't be better. I have thoroughly enjoyed myself, I feel rested and refreshed. Many thanks.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if
... for me the mixture of things was about right. I would have enjoyed a daily Eucharist.
... There was space to be quiet, company to enjoy, creative activity to stimulate but above all a truly containing welcome from the team. The massage and jacuzzi were a great bonus. Accommodation and facilities - excellent, quiet and warm. Grounds and site - beautiful place. Worship - gentle. Library - very good - appreciated eclectic choices. Workshops - good. 1:1 time - exceptionally helpful. Food - outstanding Hospitality - excellent.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if
... I was sorry to miss the walks! Arriving in the dark was very challenging alone.
~ there were no demands
~ it was about receiving, not giving
~ there was space and time for me
~ there was a comfy bed and en suite [Webeditor: sorry - not all of them! See our plans for the Long Barn.]
~ good walks, views, facilities
~ there was no 'shop' talk
~ opportunity to stop and listen, take in.
All accommodation good - liked the natural wood, beams, colours, comfy sofas in Quiet Room.
Grounds and site - aware that arriving in the dark on a wet evening could be stressful in the winter months - not much choice arriving between 7-8.30pm especially if travelling alone. Worship - gentle, easy language, unpretentious. Lovely chapel, simple but warm, comfortable. Library - spent a few hours here, reading, browsing comfortable. Good selection of books. Gentle Touch workshop - very helpful ideas. Excellent, relaxed practitioner in Philippa. Fun with Words workshop - didn't attend, but sounded fun listening to participants afterwards. Food - pleasant, varied, tasty. Wholesome soups and good to sample local cheeses and produce. Hospitality - warm, gentle, helpful, friendly. Liked the jacuzzi and thought prices in Fat Pigeon bar were very reasonable.
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if
... I had been able to book a massage (even though I was told to book early, all space gone, so some disappointment).
... it gave me the space to simply be and the permission to concentrate on my own needs and development. I have been touched and impressed by the loving attention to detail shown by the community and volunteers in caring for our needs and making this a special time. From the flowers in the chalet, to warmly catering for dietary needs, to the chance to relax in the bar and enjoy the jacuzzi and massage - these have all underlined that my needs are important and the loving care has been very healing and renewing. The grounds are beautiful and it is clear that huge thought and care has been put into developing it. Worship - didn't do much of this communally, but I found the final communion helpful and the laying on of hands touching and affirming. Library - adequate, but didn't use it as I'd bought what I intended to read. Playing with paint and clay workshop and Fun with words - liberating, affirming and fun. 1:1 time - this was helpful and it was good to know I could have had more if necessary. In my case simply being listened to and affirmed was all I needed, but I am confident that if more was needed, it would have been provided. Food - excellent, tasty, nourishing and plentiful - particularly grateful for the cheerful, loving care given to my dietary needs. Thank you Jan! Hospitality - excellent without being intrusive. Jacuzzi and massage were a real highlight!
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if
... it had been slightly longer (sorry) just beginning to totally relax and now I'm off again! Apart from that, it was perfect.
... It gave space and time while holding everyone within a structure if we wanted or needed it. I found the one to one sessions particularly helpful and a good stimulus to processing some of the current challenges of life. My room was too hot on the first night ... radiator now off, but will try to remember to turn it on again! The new fields are a wonderful addition. Map is excellent. Worship - good to slot in to morning prayer and evening prayer. Good to have night prayers and eucharist. Gentle Touch workshop - excellent .... more time? 1:1 time - brilliant - could have started on Monday? Food - good even with me! Would like water more obviously available during the day. Hospitality - made very welcome. Automatic lights on Pound House landing don't ever seem to turn off. [Webeditor - they do when no-one's there!]
... it gave me the space I needed to reflect on and let go of my previous post, and to step aside to see more clearly the situation I have come into. It was also fantastic to be pampered and cared for! Accommodation and facilities - good, need a brush to clean up borrowed wellies. Grounds and site - beautiful. Worship - communion service lovely and prayer for healing gentle and peace-giving. Playing with paint and clay workshop - great fun, I'm asking Santa to bring me some pastels! Gentle touch workshop - wonderful, well taught, encouraging and Philippa really gives you confidence. Good experience. Fun with words workshop - very different - especially writing poem with a partner - could have done with more time for last exercise. 1:1 time - very helpful. Food - wonderful! Hospitality - excellent. Videos - nice and gentle. Good laugh. No ice-cream, but good refreshments! Jacuzzi and massage really great. Could do with that regularly.
Wish the weather had been better!
I found the last week helpful and exhilarating. I found the worship helpful, including the 5.00 meditation. I found the peace and quiet helpful. During the week it was helpful to do my own thing at times. The food was good. The bedroom arrangements were good. I found the selected video evening(s) good. I found the selected workshop(s) helpful - partic the one run by Mary - who gave good space to everyone who were merely exploring with clay and in time found their own talent! I found the 1:1 helpful (2 X). I was not rushed, but really helped. I found no need during the week to make contact outside Sheldon. That was good and helpful, but reqd. discipline on my part. I felt during the week to find my own space, to come to terms in prayer and faith (and after two 1:1's) to come to terms with my immediate future. I also found it more palatable after a week not to be in a position to swallow various good friends I have. They had space from me, and felt good about it after a few days. I even found messages on my mobile phone to enquire of my whereabouts during that week! (My mobile had been switched off for the duration of the week!) All in all - a satisfactory week all round. Well worth it!
[Webeditor note: we don't advertise massage as a guaranteed option on 12,000s - we're not sure where the expectation arose on this particular week. We have a number of people who volunteer to give massage and some weeks are better staffed than others. There were several more people than available slots on this week, so we arranged for a local masseur to come in on an individually paid basis.]
~ It gave me time to reflect on things and I did not feel compelled to take part in the group.
~ I was able to catch up on sleep.
~ By the end of the week, I felt more sociable!
~ The very healthy eating regime has prompted me to do likewise at home. Thank you.
~ Lovely room and facilities. NOT soundproof! [Webed: first time we've had a problem with this room mentioned - currently investigating.] But thanks to Sarah for the ear-plugs.
~ Grounds and site beautifully kept. Very impressed.
~ Working with paint and clay workshop - Excellent! I could have spent all day for several days. I had never silk-painted and am now designing some hangings for Christmas.
~ Appreciated the initial session on Monday. Thank you for the opportunity.
~ Food - excellent thank you. Big thanks to Jan and her team.
~ First class hospitality - thank you to all the volunteers too.
~ Videos - OK. Take it or leave it. It's good to be able to VEG! Thanks for the facility.
I would have found this week more enjoyable if
~ I had not had disturbed sleep. (I appreciated the offer of alternative night accommodation but it would have been a pain having two rooms)
~ The usual arrangement for massage had been available. I did not feel able to pay extra and had liked the prospect of a good 'bubble' followed by a severe shoulder/neck de-stress. [Webed: see above] Oh well - better luck next time.
~ I could have stayed for TWO WEEKS!
... Everything was done to enable us to relax.
~ It was a safe and restful place - the 'no shop talk' rule is invaluable!
~ Company when I wanted it, but no pressure to join in.
~ Warmth, hospitality and a sense of being genuinely cared for.
~ I very much enjoyed it and felt refreshed and relaxed by the end. Thank you all very much.
~ Accommodation and facilities - I was a bit surprised by the disparity in quality - your newest accommodation is clearly to a very high standard, en-suite etc, whilst my room was pretty cramped and not even a wash basin. I appreciate that you are upgrading as funds allow, but I did feel a bit shortchanged compared to others who paid the same amount. [Webed: we have so far stuck with our policy of allocating according to need rather than ability to pay - we do try and make it clear in the literature that the smallest rooms are very small but everyone is guaranteed a room to themselves. See our future plans for the Long Barn.]
~ The grounds and site are beautiful and well-cared for.
~ Worship - only attended the final Eucharist - low key but appropriate; laying on of hands much appreciated.
~ Playing with paint and clay - excellent - therapeutic and encouraging. I think others were disappointed that it wasn't quite as advertised - ie. no glass painting [Webed: leader forgot to bring, and very apologetic]- but I didn't mind.
~ Spa and massage were lovely, and I really appreciated you making that available to me. Felt a bit badly for the others who paid extra, though, when the week is advertised as all-inclusive and the massage option is clearly a big draw. [Webed: see above]
I would have found this week more useful/enjoyable/helpful if
... it was longer! 5 or 6 days would have been better than 4. One tiny, rather trivial point, but it stuck in my mind: Throughout the retreat, it was so lovely to be served and cared for - even firmly prevented from helping to clear tables etc! A real contrast to most retreats where you expect to pitch in to community life and help out with some chores. It was moving and humbling to be so looked after, and I speculated to myself more than once that we probably wouldn't even be asked that most cliched of retreat house requests "would you mind stripping your beds before you go ...?" But then we were! It's just that it sat oddly at the end of a time when you'd gone to such lengths to keep us from service or obligation. Hope that makes sense! [Webed: Yes - thanks for mentioning it]
~ Time
~ Space
~ Cycling
~ Fun conversation
~ A relief from the grind
~ Good and useful conversations and counselling
I would have found this week more useful/helpful/enjoyable if
~ Perhaps input was available for reflection
~ Better 'ending'/debrief
~ Great accommodation and facilities - might have appreciated a sink in the bedroom. [Webeditor: see our future plans for the Long Barn.]
~ Jacuzzi was great!
~ Grounds and site fantastic - but a guided tour would have helped.
~ Worship - didn't do daily. End HC ok but hymns unnecessary and more 'creative' response time would have been nice.
~ 1:1 time fantastic - the bit I needed!
... It wasn't what I was expecting, but it was just what I needed ... the opportunity to be. Thank you for reminding me that being doesn't have to have a purpose - in fact it should be purposeless!
I would have found this week more useful/enjoyable/helpful if
... the jacuzzi was more comfortable to lounge in!!! (I think the lack of music didn't help) [Webed: temporarily out of order, but working again now] . Beyond that I really can't think of anything that would have improved what has been an excellent week. Thank you.
~ The grounds and site are beautiful, peaceful, relaxing, isolated - just right for what you are offering.
~ Playing with paint and clay workshop - excellent. Was looking forward to glass painting which wasn't offered but excellent all the same.
~ Gentle touch workshop - most enjoyable (and fun). Enjoyed experience and look forward to sharing new skills.
~ Delicious food. Appreciated the use of home grown and local sourced foods. Thanks for responding to my dietary needs. It was so nice to be cared for by so many lovely and loving people.
~ Mixture of creativity.
~ Own space.
~ One to one time - many thanks to Dot for her listening.
~ Good food.
~ Comfy bed.
~ Playing with paint and clay workshop - Tessa very encouraging even to one with no specific talent - lovely atmosphere.
~ Gentle touch workshop - Philippa very encouraging to our small group - enjoyed this session of learning to give and receive.
~ Excellent food and thanks to Jan - will have to go on a diet on my return home!
~ Penny's massage lovely on Thursday morning.
~ I enjoyed the sights and sounds of Sheldon's scenery - changing with the weather. Early morning walks in the dew; owls hooting at night; birdsong in the early mornings.
~ Fun with ___ and a lot of laughter!
... better if ... Carl hadn't terrified us on the first evening! [Webed: re no clergy shop talk rule] I did feel a bit inhibited to talk to anyone about anything for the 1st couple of days!
~ of the discreet care
~ beautiful place - luxurious room - restful
~ wonderful food
~ light touch of ministry
~ clarity of ground rules
~ peace; security; anonymity
~ no clergy shop talk - good discipline encouraged us to develop other social skills!
~ room 2 - Pound House - excellent
~ gentle and refreshing worship
~ good range of books in the library
~ workshops great fun, inspiring and creative
~ Jacuzzi - great
More availability of massage would have been nice.
... there was a good balance between structure and flexibility. I could choose which activities to join. Very helpful one to one session with Sarah in explaining stress management. Playing with paint and clay workshop inspired me to do more art. Fun with words workshop - enjoyable and inspiring to write more poetry. Food excellent.
... It enabled me to reflect on all that has gone on in the past few years, which has helped me to prepare to move on into my new ministry.
The accommodation and facilities were generally excellent, but having a bedroom next to a bathroom meant I was disturbed several times each night. [Webeditor: see our future plans for the Long Barn.] Superb and excellent walks with easy to follow maps/routes. The final Eucharist was really good - it brought a real sense of closure to all that had gone on in the week. Playing with paint and clay workshop - clashed with my massage, but I enjoyed the first 20 minutes or so. Fun with words workshop - lots of fun and helped me to write about the work I'd done here. One to one time really helpful - thank you. Videos - I preferred Jumping Jack Flash to Sahara! Excellent fun and very enjoyable popcorn and chocolates. Staff and volunteers were superb and a huge thank you to you all.
I would have found this week more enjoyable if ... my husband had been here!
... it gave me a safe place to look at what had been happening to me over the last year: a year which had been very stressful. When I read about the 12,000-mile Service it sounded just what I needed and wanted. I came with great expectations and they were fulfilled. I really appreciated only having to be responsible for myself in the knowledge that you (the community) were there to care for us all. The break from the responsibility for others was a wonderful gift.
I appreciated being in one of the chalets and having the kitchen to be able to make an early morning cup of tea to take back to bed. I did wonder about the scythe on the wall but along with the pig picture it gave pause for thought!
I found it a little confusing to find green and black PRIVATE signs around the site. I knew I was free to ignore the green ones but when I came to a black one I did not always know whether I was in danger of going on land that didn't belong to the Sheldon Centre. Suggestion: would it be possible to put PRIVATE (Sheldon Centre) on the boundary gates so that those who are staying at Sheldon know they can happily go through them and not find themselves trespassing on a neighbour's land?
I appreciated the worship more as the week went on but that was where I was at and no criticism of the worship leader. The Eucharist and meal on Thursday was a perfect ending to a very special and precious retreat.
I didn't use the library much, but I liked the cosiness and welcoming feel that greets one as you open the door. The armchairs, availability of drinks, its compactness a sense of come in, be comfortable and enjoy what is here.
Workshops - I enjoyed having the variety of experiences. Playing with paint and clay I enjoyed being able to experiment and play with clay and paint. Having created something that I will be able to keep is a lovely bonus and I am looking forward to receiving my dish and seeing how my experimenting turns out. Gentle touch workshop - the receiving and giving of massage in this workshop was for me a very positive experience. It is super to have learnt a little about a skill that can help a person to feel more relaxed and I look forward to opportunities to apply this skill. Fun with words workshop - the writing of a poem in a group produced a piece of writing I will continue to reflect on. The way in which the poems were written produced a creativity among the group that was a surprise. Another idea to add to my resources.
One to one time - I knew there were things I needed to reflect on with another person and I am so grateful to Dot's willingness to listen and understand. She was a great help in enabling me to learn from the past so that the difficulties can be stepping stones and not burdens to hold me back. I feel I can move forward now with confidence rather than fear to what the future will hold.
It was lovely to have food prepared with local and home grown ingredients and to be served with such love.
Thank you for the loving care, the attention to detail - taking note of my preference for a shower over a bath, fresh flowers in my room. The willingness to serve joyfully and wanting the best for me.
The popcorn (I do like popcorn with salt rather than sugar) and chocolates were a lovely touch. Choosing the video to watch was not easy but the fun and laughter with which it was done added to the enjoyment of the evening.
Feeling in need of some TLC the idea of a massage sounded wonderful. The fact that it became available was so kind. It was the first time I had a massage and it helped in the relaxation and healing process.
I came to Sheldon feeling rather bashed and flat and have come way refreshed and feeling excited about what the future holds. The spark has returned and life seems good again. Thank you all so much for all you did. Thank you for being there when I needed you.
... This '12,000' week was exactly what I needed - the structure of the week allowed me to be as 'holy' or 'unholy' as I wanted, and was a perfect balance between 'group' things, one-to-one time, reflection, recreation and exercise that I wanted. A truly marvellous and relaxing week.
Accommodation and facilities: What an amazing transformation since I came 3 years ago - the Pound House and new chapel is fantastic. Rooms very comfortable indeed! Grounds and site: so well maintained and in such a great setting. Worship: Just right, but see comment at end. Workshops: Playing with paint and clay - I really valued the rare chance to be creative and to reflect prayerfully in the way Daphne led us. Gentle Touch - I really enjoyed this last time and so didn't use this. But the result of my last experience is that my wife and I now regularly massage each other. Sound and silence - Very interesting - I've hardly touched a drum in my life, so it was very liberating and refreshing. One to one time - Daphne was extremely helpful in leading me to reflect on various aspects of my life. Food - marvellous balance between healthy and imaginative tasty good food - thank you. Hospitality - you and the team were perfect. Always available but not intrusive in any way. Videos - I enjoyed escaping from the TV for a few days.
I would have found this week more helpful/enjoyable etc if .....
I can't think how I'd improve it ... For me (but others would have different preferences!):
~ I would prefer eating later, and I don't really like drinking (alcohol) as early as 6pm ... so would have valued the bar open for a short spell after supper.
~ I would have valued a midday office or eucharist, as I was in bed by 9.30pm!
... A note to say a huge thank you for the marvellous 12,000 week. For me, it has been the very best kind of 'annual retreat' - just the right balance between 'groupy' things (the workshops have been excellent), one-to-one direction/counsel (do please say a thank you again to Daphne Norton), and the opportunity to use the quiet and stillness for personal reflection, recreation and prayer - and sleep! - all within the framework of the offices. The great and imaginative food - and fantastic weather - have all contributed to a refreshing week. Many, many thanks.
... I switched off. Felt free. Played. Had support to think about things I wanted to think about.
Would have found this week more enjoyable if ... accommodation had been better - I was in a Chalet [Webeditor - now upgraded as Pig Pens].Workshops - all very helpful - have now used hand massage in the parish!
... The balance between own time and the things you offered was just right. I'm glad I opted into virtually everything - all the activities opened "pores" for me - and I felt like this was real oasis time refreshing dry weariness. The "no shop talk" an inspiration. Great kindness exercised by all.
I would have found this week more enjoyable if .... If (only comment) my room had been a little larger, with a window I could see out of without standing on the bed. A bit claustrophobic at night, and some sleeplessness because of that and, tho' I hate to admit, leaping up and down into a bunk bed at my age/& back, has been a challenge. [Webeditor - sorry - we would have gladly made up another bed if we'd known. Also, see our future plans for the Long Barn.]
... of the freedom it gave to me to do what was right for me in the company of others, and to achieve what I had set out to do. The grounds and site were more than adequate for what I needed (chalet and the scenery says it all. Worship - a framework to use each day for corporate worship that didn't take too long! Library - it met my needs re reference and general theology. Workshop: Sound and Silence - excellent. Most enjoyable with a first class leader. At meal times I enjoyed the company and conversation with the volunteers who did a wonderful job in caring for guests. The food was first class - lots of stars! The hospitality was welcoming and lovely and the videos gave the chance to have an enjoyable evening, with chocs and popcorn, in the company of other guests.
... I had plenty of space to think and pray and relax. The pressures were totally off and it was relaxing to be cared for in a genuine and attentive way. Thank you for making the week full of life and recovery. I needed it to charge the batteries and it was hugely helpful.
I cannot think of anything which could improve the week. The ethos at Sheldon was absolutely right for me, whatever you do don't change that. The copse was a particular joy, as was the old chapel. The appreciated the way the worship was lead - simply and effectively! I read two books which were just right - a bit of luck, or ??!!
Workshops: Playing with paint and clay - didn't think this would be me, but Daphne even ended up getting me painting - gently and helpfully lead. Gentle Touch - a remarkable workshop - to give and receive hand and foot massage was almost sacramental. Thank you Philippa for your gentle leadership. Sound and silence - hugely enjoyable and remarkable effective. Thank you Sue, again, for your gentle input and inspiration.
The food was excellent. Thank you to Jan et al who worked so well in the kitchen. Hospitality was excellent. Gentle, unobtrusive and with a sense of humour. Thank you for the walks - to Mary and Sue and those who lead us on Tuesday. A huge thank you for the 1 hour massage (to Philippa) - an extraordinary experience.
... It was a great balance between time and space just for me and social activity/creative time. The beauty and peace of the place is very relaxing. It's very gentle and unpressured - no expectations.
I cannot fault my week - I enjoyed it so much! I go home so refreshed. Thank you everyone - you all worked so hard to allow us to have a happy time here. The accommodation and facilities were excellent. My room was comfortable and had a wonderful view. The grounds and site - it was easy to learn where everything was. Site map a good idea. Worship - I didn't always go, but it was a peaceful experience when I did. I found the laying on of hands profoundly moving. Thank you!
Workshops: Playing with paint and clay - excellent, nice to be able to go back to and 'play'. Good handouts to take home! Sound and silence - excellent, really satisfying. Want to try it back home!
... Firstly, the atmosphere and culture were relaxed and informal throughout, allowing personal freedom to be oneself and use the given time as one wanted. The warmth and kindness of the staff and volunteers helped give a sense of security and support in this, as did the outline timetable for the week. Other elements contributed to this sense of well-being : the beautiful setting, the wonderful food and the gently nurturing worship, for example. It was an amazingly renewing few days, and I am very grateful to all at Sheldon for this great gift.
Accommodation and facilities were very comfortable and well-maintained. Grounds and site were well kept, peaceful and renewing. Worship was refreshing. Library - excellent. Food - superb. Hospitality - warm and welcoming. Videos - entertaining and relaxing. One to one time - very helpful, with sensitive listening and perceptive questions enabling me to clarify my thoughts and feelings. Playing with paint and clay workshop - very helpful as creative space for reflection.
... First of all, can I thank you for the work you do at Sheldon. I came on the Clergy 12,000-mile Service at the end of February and, like the time before when I came, my stay gave me a tremendous boost. I think this time because I came without any of the emotional and spiritual baggage I carried last time. I could not fault Sheldon in any way - only that I wish I could bring my family and stay longer!!
... the 'rules' were made clear
I was 'looked after' generously
it was quiet
it was in a very beautiful place
Would have been more enjoyable if ...... the bed had been bigger and more comfortable
... This time has been a time of rich blessing. A time to breathe again and to know God's embrace once more. To listen and to speak, to learn and to grow and to know God's healing touch. Thank you to the whole community for giving yourselves to serve others and in showing God's love in so many ways.
... Thank you so much for a wonderful week at Sheldon. It was just what I needed and it was so good just to be able to relax and unwind and be true to who I am. The past year or so has seen a considerable period of reflecting and re-evaluating where I am in the great spectrum of traditions within the CofE and my time at Sheldon has helped enormously in my continued reflections. I would very much like to continue my association with Sheldon and enclose my application to join the Friends. In due course it would be lovely to come back to Sheldon, perhaps with A and to stay in a Linhay Lodge and to see you again. Thank you once again from the bottom of my heart for the last week and for all that you continue to do for those who minister in the Church. It is very much appreciated.
... It came at a time when I needed to "touch base" with God. To be more aware, as Margaret Silf says "those thin places". For me to walk and have space and time is where I can be most in time to allow my "God thoughts". It was perfect. If only I had not had the worry of the wretched weather forecasts. But, I guess, God was telling me to trust in him! That's one down to Him not Sheldon!
Workshops: 'Playing with paint and clay' - good provisions for everyone. 'Gentle Touch' - absolutely fascinating and therapeutic, both giving and receiving. 'Fun with words' - great fun and laughter. A wonderful way for "wordmongers" to switch to "play mode". It was so wonderful to have Sheldon that no matter how I feel, I know I will be loved and cared for. Very many, many thanks to everyone.
... It has given me 'space' to think my future through. 1:1 time was very useful and has caused me to draw up a programme and preferences for the next year. Food was excellent. Very good staff and volunteers. First rate.
... Rest, re-thinking, space to "stop"! Thank God for SMM!
... It gave me space to think, pray and relax and the chance to talk over some worries. Without being intensive,I would have found it more helpful if there had been some introduction of the course members as, quite rightly, there was to be no 'clergy' talk I found it hard to initially engage with people!
... Just like to say thanks again for the 12,000-mile Service last November and you might like to know that I am still working at slowing down, and I am feeling the benefits.
When I'm rushing around it seems impossible to take a break and sometimes it is. But there are times when I have taken an hour or two out, to walk the dog, or do a bit of gardening (which I love!) or just sit and relax with a nice winter drink and to my surprise I have felt so much better. I seem to achieve more. I feel clearer in mind and life has been much more enjoyable. In fact, I have really enjoyed ministry in these past few months. Normally I struggle through winter and feel overwhelmed by the grey miserable days, but this year I have had more of an inner glow that has made it all seem so much easier.
I've also taken up tap dancing, which I am hopeless at, but who cares, I feel invigorated afterwards! You helped point me in the right direction and although I know I have got to maintain these healthy habits, at least I now know for myself that it is not only beneficial, it is possible. Thanks.
...of the gracious way in which each one of you cared for us. It seemed that nothing was too much trouble or too difficult. This came at a time for review and looking forward into a new position and to have space and help with thinking through important issues was invaluable.
The food is excellent, as is the comfort and the provision of accommodation and you are in such a beautiful place. Here life has held a gentle orderliness that imposes a freedom just to be. Thank you.
...It was so relaxing, with meals provided, comfy chairs, lots of space, and the jacuzzi too!
...The freedom to do exactly what I wanted to, away from the constant demands of young children and home life. The accommodation was excellent - I loved being able to make tea in the mornings in my room. ...The chalets were very quiet too, which was lovely.
...The jacuzzi was very relaxing, and so thoughtfully arranged, with candles and music provided.
...The grounds and site were good to explore, a lovely location for a retreat centre. I particularly enjoyed the Eucharist on Thursday evening - a lovely end to the week.
...I really enjoyed the paint and clay workshop - being able to experiment for fun for the first time in years using lovely materials. Thank you.
...The space and time to read and think.
...The 1:1 interview was very helpful. Talking things through enabled me to think things through myself much more clearly and choose some useful strategies.
I went on one led walk which was lovely - very varied views, and we came back tired but also refreshed. We also used the photocopied suggested walks which were easy to follow.
...Was able to relax in a peaceful and beautiful place. Didn't need to feel guilty if I just sat and didn't feel I had to do anything. Appreciated the ban on "shop" talk. Refreshment in new people and situation. Really enjoyed my first "spinning" lesson and really appreciated the time Hillary spent with me - a craft I may well take up.
Beautiful grounds and site.
Paint and clay workshop was a completely new experience - daunting at first but pleased with what I achieved.
Gentle Touch workshop was excellent - something I would like to pursue. Would have really appreciated the opportunity to have a full massage.
I have never known [my husband] return from a retreat so relaxed. We are now able to look to the future and share better how we might find relaxation in this busy job and world. Thank you.
...I decided to take the opportunity to offer a heartfelt "thank you" for creating Sheldon and allowing people like me to enjoy this place and gain some sense of an inner equilibrium. I knew nothing about Sheldon until recently. I looked forward to coming, because I knew I needed to do something to address the hidden issues going on inside me.
I have thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of being here. The silence of the countryside was like music to my ears. Soon after arriving I stood outside in the dark just to soak in the silence and enjoy it. There is nowhere in the area where I live where I can get away from man-made noise. That alone generates a constant sense of activity, business and accompanying stress. But, Sheldon is more than that. It is the whole package of gentle structure, but personal freedom and good facilities. There is positive encouragement to slow down, wonderful healthy food, a "back to natural basics" approach which assists the ability to connect with God and appreciate Him more.
While I have been here I have experienced a whole range of emotions from utter desolation and despair that led to uncontrollable and sudden tears of pain and sadness to tears of joy and pleasure as I gained a sense of paradise and sheer delight.
My hope, and no doubt yours too, is that there will be a long term benefit. One thing that has made an impression on me,which I hope I can apply, is that I now believe it is possible to work less, relax more and be more productive. It is my firm intention to try and find a manageable means of implementing a plan and programme that will allow me more time for rest, recuperation and inner peace and that will lead to me being more effective and more fully human. Perhaps one day I can return to review progress and make further plans towards wholeness.
...It gave me time and space to relax, read, reflect, be creative and enjoy the company of others in lovely surroundings and an atmosphere of Christian care. No one 'pryed' into me or my circumstances, respecting that I had said I had no particular problems and just wanted quality time and space. I think Sheldon lived up to my expectations. Thank you.
Fun with words workshop was a well structured programme which encouraged development of ideas and expression. Very good.
Walks were enjoyable in beautiful scenery.
....All these apply! Useful because you provided just the right atmosphere for an R & R break. Helpful because the 1 to 1 sessions I had with Sarah have helped to identify some areas I need to work on. Enjoyable because I have been so well looked after this week. It was great to completely switch off to parish life - I think the no shop talk rule really helps here. Community and volunteer helpers got the balance of friendship and distance just right.
Our accommodation was fantastic - Stephen's Lodge. Thank you so much for this. It more than met our needs.
It would have been lovely to have had the option to continue the Gentle Touch workshop into the afternoon to cover neck and shoulders.
Perhaps one of the workshops could have been music based?
Such a shame Jan was not able to offer massages this week.
....As always, the hospitality was generous, the welcome warm and the peace at Sheldon simply enfolds me in care and concern for my well being. The jacuzzi is the best addition to the house along with quiet room and cider press, for reading, chatting etc.
....It lived up to the expectations I came with. The whole period has been a blessing to me in more ways than I am able to express. The combination of set items, privacy and the delightful hospitality from all volunteers has been superb.
....Absolutely wonderful - a "Godsend". I really felt like I had permission to "receive" and not give. I didn't feel guilty. I began to think seriously about looking after myself in order to be in better shape to give myself to others. The location, the facilities and attitude of the staff was supportive and really did help me to assess where I am, why, and think seriously about what things can and need to change and to put in place at least the beginnings of a plan that will bring about long term improvements in my patterns of behaviour.
I'm a "first-timer" for me everything has been well thought out. Even to having the week's timetable pinned on noticeboard at strategic locations.
I'm impressed with all the facilities. Everything seems to be in the right place. Access routes, light switches, showers and toilets. Superb! [Webeditor: and hopefully soon to be even better! See our future plans for the Long Barn.]
The paint and clay workshop really helped me to switch off from home and work. I laughed later when I realised I had not thought about work and what I would normally be doing. I'm hopeless at painting, but enjoyed it.
The Gentle Touch workshop gave me a taste to learn more about this. I give my wife massage, but rarely receive one in a relaxed atmosphere. It felt so good even though it was only hands and feet.
The library was very practical and I found some very interesting reading. But I also enjoyed doing a jigsaw.
I found the gentle structure of worship and mealtimes/tea breaks so helpful. That routine has been lost in our household and I found it so valuable. I wonder if I can recapture some of it again, at home.
...Of the peace and space we were given. Thank you.
...I had space to be myself out of my work environment. The comfort and the setting was superb, enhanced only by good autumn weather. A God-given location where He is everywhere to be found. Excellent food. Thank you for going out of your way to cater for my special needs. I wish I'd made more use of the jacuzzi! It was a good experience for my aching joints - especially after walking.
. The peace of the place, the care and attention to detail. (Flowers in the rooms.) The time to be - not do.
..of the extraordinary care and love shown in many little ways as well as in the big things. You seem to have thought of everything. The rhythm of worship was very helpful. The one to one over three sessions was beneficial (though not always easy) but God was in them. I think and pray the effects of those chats will be even more apparent as I return to ministry. The workshops were good for relaxation especially the art one and the massage. The setting and the feel of the buildings is so peaceful.
Thank you for a great week. Thank you for your meticulous hospitality and the extra weight I took away with me. It is so good to discovered this place. I like travelling through the week with a group rather than being alone... Although we try not to talk shop, it is our shared experiences we laugh at, and ourselves, as underlying characteristics begin to appear. It's safe too, you feel that if you fell apart it would be ok.
.. Enough worship to keep focus but not to escape into
good talking points (marmalade etc!) which helped with not 'talking shop'.
opportunities to do/think about things I don't usually - workshops.
Provides a distant perspective.
Being with a group is encouraging, keeping self view in rein but also becoming able to value self use.
.. I was given space and time to rest, read and reflect and to try some new areas via the workshops. The workshops opened some doors in a non-threatening way which I enjoyed walking through. The food was delicious and plentiful. Might be good to anticipate the many requests for recipes. I appreciated the no shop talk rule which kept guests fairly anonymous - I was unsure whether volunteers were quizable about what they did - conversation therefore remained fairly stilted at the table.
.. I arrived feeling physically and mentally exhausted after a very busy three months. However, after 24 hours, the peace and tranquility of the centre helped me to unwind. I returned home feeling very refreshed.
... of the wonderful surroundings, good food, caring staff and 'Old Moggie'!
.. I enjoyed the peace, space and quiet; I found some helpful books in the library, I enjoyed the walks, workshops, and excellent food. It gave me space to hear God and set priorities for the future.
... of being left to myself, for the wonderful food and the peace. Serenity and beauty of the place. For the presence of God in the chapel
I was simply able to relax and enjoy the area, painting, walking, eating and sleeping.
.. it met me at my point of need, and enabled me to move forward in a significant way. I cannot fault the place or the people. I will treasure the remaining week at Sheldon, and hope to return at some point for more refreshment and renewal.
..it was completely stress-free. I had no decisions to make - other than "shall I sleep/read/run/go to a workshop/watch a video?" It was sheer bliss! I found the times of prayer/worship helpful and relaxing, and appreciated the opportunity to talk one to one with one of the volunteers. The catering/accommodation was great! I would certainly come again, and recommend it to others.
...It provided a gentle, supportive framework and space for rest and renewal. I greatly appreciated the "no clergy shop talk" rule (and realised how much I had, when two other guests lapsed into vigorous shop talk over breakfast on Friday morning. I got up and left the table).
I was allowed to be, without having to do. I have found it a real treat, God's provision and a time for refreshment and recharging my batteries. I feel that I am going back to the parish better equipped for the future challenges.
It was a time for myself - which I needed.
A time to be with God.
A time to relax, walk, exercise and eat well.
A time to review my life.
I felt valued, held and tenderly cared for from the moment I arrived. There were many things that puzzled me to begin with - like such a loose, bitty framework and all those "staff". As time went on, I really appreciated the gentle rhythm of worship and community holding the week - and our personal journeys - together. I found it incredibly supportive to know that so much people time was being poured out to support and care for us - brilliant to feel that the volunteers were journeying with us and we weren't just draining/stretching community members with many other things on their plates as well as us.
... My only hiccup was a fairly sleepless first night, despairing about how I would cope and screwing up the courage to mention it through agonies of worrying that I was being a nuisance or whinging. I hadn't realised what a life-line coming to Sheldon would prove to be - or how much I needed one.
... The chalets are sweet - but better sound proofed internal doors would help a lot for the fragile or light sleepers. The Lodge was the most amazing gift - as I walked in I just felt that all things were possible with God at Sheldon. [WebEd: special circumstances - Lodges not normally used for programme events] The grounds and site were gorgeous - the care and the thought that has clearly gone into everything is an indicator of your care and thought for your guests. Worship - as Carl predicted, no fireworks. I missed quiet music or song - but I guess with so many people in such different emotional places something very simple is the best vehicle. Liked the Night Prayer liturgy. Source? Library - really interestingly stocked. I'd like to come back and have a good root through.
Workshops: Gentle Touch - super - she had a lovely encouraging style - got us to do what we didn't think we could. Also very confidence building for the future. Too short!! Someone to talk to/individual massage - really helpful to have opportunities to talk - both more formally with Sarah - but also the gentle conversation of the volunteers. The massage was a great way to trigger a complete change of gear. Wonderful to be given the care. Food - wonderful to have such beautifully prepared real food. Really good variety. Hospitality - brilliant from the moment Roy greeted me by name in the car park and showed me round!
