... 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. 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. 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. 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!! Grounds and site: very wekk 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 humourous 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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.
... 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. 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. 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.
... 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.] 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. 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. [Webed: yes - our smallest rooms are very small, but everyone is guaranteed a single room].
... 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). 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. 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. 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 restrai
