When we founded the charity, we felt a clear call: to help nurture a more peaceful world through the recovery and practice of ancient Christian wisdom.
We believed the best way to honour that call was to share the gift of meditation freely—offering twice-weekly online teaching and practice sessions open to all. What began as a small offering soon revealed a deep need. Many people were longing not just for stillness, but for structure, support, community, and a way to integrate meditation into their lives.
To our surprise, this quickly grew into the largest Christian meditation practice group in the UK — deepening our sense of responsibility to steward this work carefully and generously.
Our weekly gatherings are offered in the spirit of generous giving. This means there is no charge to participate. Instead, we trust in the natural flow of generosity—between those who receive and those who are able to give.
Your donations make it possible for us to prepare and host the weekly online gatherings, maintain our digital offering, reach new people and keep the practice open to all — regardless of financial circumstance. Your gift, no matter the size, makes a real difference and is received with deep thanks.
We were delighted to receive support from the University of Derby in the form of a research student who worked with us recently to produce our first ever social impact report. The indicative data which this provided is extremely encouraging.
The study revealed that 87% of participants felt a deeper connection to God, 87% viewed other people and situations with more kindness, 83% felt the way they live their life is more aligned to their values and 76% reported having more inner peace.
Many participants shared heartfelt reflections that affirm just how meaningful this growing online community has become. They frequently highlighted the quality of the teachings, the simplicity and accessibility of the practice, and the deep sense of companionship it fosters. The regular rhythm of the gatherings has also helped people establish a consistent practice—often for the first time.
Although our reach is wide, our cost base is remarkably low. We intentionally operate without owning or renting a building, employ just two part-time staff, and benefit immensely from the generosity of volunteers.
Our primary sources of income are donations and ticket sales from retreats and events—offered at cost to keep them accessible. No one is ever turned away for lack of financial means.
To ensure the long-term sustainability of our mission and financial model, we depend on those who value our work to help support it. Your generosity makes it possible for this community to grow and serve for years to come.
All forms of support are received with gratitude. Annual reports for The School of Contemplative Life are available on the Charity Commission website, where details of pro-bono support are also published.
