7 August 2024
Warden of Readers, Canon Caroline Harding LLM tells us about this year's Reader Retreat.
Twenty Licensed Lay Ministers from across Chelmsford Diocese gathered over the weekend of 26 – 28 July at The Diocesan House of Retreat, Pleshey for a weekend of fellowship, formation and fun.
The weekend started with a keynote speech from the Rev Canon Rob Merchant, Dean of Mission, Ministry and Education who reflected on aging through the lens of Paul’s letter to the Philippians. Other input over the weekend included a session on “The Importance of Being Lay” led by Tracey Nicholls, a walking meditation led by Tim Lee who also led a session on Family Systems and Sandra Evans took us through a selection of poetry, art and music to help us reflect on God’s glory and beauty in creation in a session called “Ah! Bright Wings!”
The whole weekend was interspersed with worship and on Sunday we were joined by the Venerable Mike Power, Archdeacon of Southend, who led us in a Eucharist. There was also time to just relax in the beautiful setting of Pleshey and an opportunity to get to know each other and share good news stories. Oh yes, and there was plenty of cake!
All those who attended are grateful to the Diocesan House of Retreat at Pleshey for once again hosting us and for looking after us so well. The next Reader Retreat is planned for 2026.
