At a time when the world can seem filled with loud, angry voices speaking words of division, conflict and judgement, join us for a day of shared silence celebrating the essential goodness and pristine nature of our being.
Drawing on wisdom teachings from across the great spiritual traditions of the world, we will explore the universal image of light and the many ways it has been used to speak about the goodness – the love, compassion, peace and awareness – that is the deepest truth of who we are.
Held in the peaceful surroundings of the Prinknash Abbey Centre, the day will offer a gentle flow of short talks (20 mins each), silent sitting and walking meditation, and opportunities for conversation. Through the day, we will practise opening to the goodness of our being, recognising the light within ourselves, in one another and all creation. Whether we are sitting, walking or drinking a cup of tea, we can practice living each moment deeply. Each breath can become a silent ‘thank you’ for the gift of our life and for each other.
We hope you can join us for this special day of shared silence and friendship.
This retreat is an invitation to explore an ancient wisdom-path that has much to offer our contemporary culture. It has been carefully crafted to be inclusive and accessible, welcoming anyone seeking truth, peace, and spiritual renewal, regardless of their faith, beliefs or previous experience of meditation.
Chris Whittington is the Founder of The School of Contemplative Life. He was introduced to contemplative practice during several years of formation when he lived at the Benedictine monastery of Prinknash Abbey in England. Chris’ monastic teachers taught meditation as a universal wisdom found within all the great spiritual traditions, a pathway to peace and solidarity with people of all faiths and none. Following an introduction by the Abbot of the Prinknash community, Chris subsequently studied at the Dalai Lama’s monastery in Dharamshala, India.
Chris regularly delivers talks, workshops and retreats and has introduced the practice of meditation in the Christian tradition to thousands of people in the UK and abroad. He is known for his ability to communicate the subtleties of the practice and complex spiritual texts in simple, practical ways, resonant with the challenges of daily life.
Chris is the author of the book The Missing Peace published by Canterbury Press.
Events organised by The School of Contemplative Life are subject to our Event Terms & Conditions (available in full here). Where an event is organised and hosted by a third party, their own terms and conditions apply.
Please note: our events and those we contribute to or lead on behalf of a third party should be understood as providing spiritual guidance and advice to help participants deepen their own meditation practice and understanding. If you have any mental, emotional or physical health conditions, please ask your medical practitioner if it is advisable for you to attend and make sure you always follow your medical practitioner’s advice.
All Bursary applications are administered by The School of Contemplative Life in accordance with our Bursary Guidelines.