God in All Things: A Quaker Look at Ignatian Spirituality

In this retreat-like residential weekend, we will explore the 16th-century teachings of Ignatius of Loyola. He used prayer forms and spiritual traditions whilst emphasising the experiential and practical in the life of prayer. The purpose of his Spiritual Exercises was to help us grow in faith ('seeing God in all things'), to free us to make good choices and to help others. Many of his insights seem to weave neatly with our Quaker concepts of 'that of God in everyone', and an active faith which leads us to witness in the world, whilst being deeply grounded in our collective worship.

We will explore discernment, intimacy with Christ, spiritual struggle, our unique calling, and prayer methods. As well as informative talks and small group discussion, we will practice awareness exercises, imaginative contemplation, and spiritual journaling.

Please bring along a notebook or journal, whether paper-based or electronic.

The Saturday afternoon includes free time to relax or explore the local area.

The course begins with the evening meal at 19:00 on Friday and ends at lunchtime on Sunday.