The Association for Promoting Retreats (APR) was founded in 1913 to promote the development of the Christian life through retreats, particularly within the Anglican Communion.

Today the APR works in partnership with the Retreat Association, serving alongside each other in strengthening the understanding and importance of retreats within our own Church traditions and to promote the value of retreats: for individuals, for the Church, and for society as a whole. Take a look around and discover not only how a retreat could be just what you are looking for, but where and when you might go.

All our work is underpinned by prayer. Click here if you are looking for resources to help you pray, or connect you with other online praying communities.

We support Retreat Houses across the UK (and beyond) by promoting their work and individual retreats, and through our cycle of prayer. This week, do join us in praying for Nicholas Buxton and all who live, work or seek refreshment at St Antony’s Priory in Durham.

A selection of members’ events is shown below – find more by clicking the Retreats and Events heading.

Noticeboard

Online Retreats

Have you considered an online retreat? All the input (sometimes including spiritual direction) can be accessed online, but you can spend the silent times in the comfort and familiarity of your own home?

APR Trustee Revd Cameron Butland is leading an online retreat, ‘Silence in Celtic Christianity’ from 10-11 February. Click here for more information, and for how to book.

Or join Chris Whittington and the School of Contemplative Life for a 3-day meditation retreat with The Cloud of Unknowing from 10-12 February – All info and bookings can be accessed here.

Donna Worthington from Christian Retreats also has a full programme of online Quiet Mornings/Afternoons, including on 18th February, 6th March, and 15th May 2023.

‘Taster’ Retreats

Do you want to go on retreat, but are anxious about what might be expected of you?

Many people are nervous about going on retreat for the first time – but there’s really no need! All retreat houses welcome ‘first-timers’ through their doors, for all their retreats, but some also offer retreats specifically for people who haven’t been on one before.

This year, why not try going to to Launde Abbey from 17-19 March 2023?

And many of the individually guided retreats or ‘Longing for God’ at the House of Prayer, East Molesey, are suitable for beginners too – including their retreats from 27-29 Jan, 21-23 Feb, 3-5 March or 19-21 May 2023.

Virtual ‘Oasis Days’

‘Oasis Days’ offer quiet reflection for people who need a day to re-charge their spiritual batteries and enjoy the stimulation of an excellent speaker.

Currently offered online via Zoom, the next one (entitled ‘Resting in God’, and led by Donna Worthington of Christian Retreats) is to be held on Tuesday 14th February, 10.45am – 3.00pm. Please email APR member, Jane Franklin on janefranklinretreats@gmail.com for the Zoom link.