The Grace-filled Wilderness
Led by Magdalen Smith
Based on Magdalen's book, The Grace-filled Wilderness, this retreat connects contemporary encounters of wilderness.It will explore a series of subjects that are double-edged : experiences which can bring us life or drain life from us depending on how we approach and live within them. Our appetites; what gives us our identity; what our work or occupying our time means for us; what freedom really means; and our struggles with anxiety and pain. Each will be explored creatively using story, film, visual imagery, poetry and some biblical texts. Within each session there will be an opportunity to reflect on what wilderness might mean for us individually and how God gently moves us into a place of grace after times in the desert.
This is a silent retreat with daily offices and sessions. One Eucharist.
Magdalen Smith is an Anglican priest who has served in a variety of contexts from city centre ministry to rural parish and outer estate. She has been Director of Ordinands for Chester Diocese and is a National Advisor for selection for ordained ministry. A Spiritual Director and retreat leader, she has travelled widely, enjoys the visual arts, film, good food and wine and loves the countryside.
Magdalen's 4 published books are listed below and she is currently writing on what calling looks like in an experience of trauma, and what that means within the future church.
Steel Angels: The Personal Qualities of a Priest
Fragile Mystics: Reclaiming a Prayerful Life
Unearthly Beauty: Through Advent with the Saints
The Grace-filled Wilderness: A Journey through Lent.
This event is open to everyone.
Arrival: 3 - 5pm
Mon 17th May
2021
Departure: 10am
Fri 21st May
2021
Residential - £480 (20% ministry discount)