Our Story

The School of Contemplative Life was formed following much enthusiasm and encouragement from spiritual leaders including Rev. Dr. Rowan Williams and Fr. Martin Laird OSA.

A physical home may be sought in due course but, at present, our energy is focused on delivering a hybrid programme of teaching and practice to achieve our Purpose and Aims.

Our founder

Chris Whittington

Chris was introduced to contemplative practice at the age of 19.  This was during a period of formation at the Benedictine monastery, Prinknash Abbey, after which he studied at the Dalai Lama’s monastery in India.

Chris regularly delivers talks, workshops and retreats across the UK. Prior to establishing the School of Contemplative Life, Chris was COO at the World Community for Christian Meditation.

You can read more about Chris’ formation here or listen to him speaking about Christian meditation here.

For the past eight years, Chris has been Head of Education Law at a social purpose law firm where he has introduced meditation to hundreds of people working in education not-for-profit sectors, helping them to lead and work more collaboratively and compassionately, build community within their organisations and enhance wellbeing.

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