This is a residential 5 day retreat delivered in partnership between Citizens UK and Ripon College, Cuddesdon.

Between the practice of Community Organising, and the heritage and resources of Christian faith, lies rich and fertile territory. During this retreat we shall inhabit and explore that ground, with a particular focus on contemplation and action; mysticism and resistance. How do we balance these in our own spiritual/organising lives, and how can we enable our faith communities to be renewed and re-energised by embracing that balance too? We will bring to that exploration a spirit of ‘co-creation’ – everyone will participate by taking some kind of leadership role – learning and growing together. 

In summary, the retreat will offer:

• a balance of contemplation and action, spending time with both and exploring how they work together;
• time and space for deep spiritual refreshment through personal reflection and creative worship, prayer and silence; 
• engagement with scripture, other authoritative texts and inspiring people;
• free time that can be used as you need/choose (eg walking, sleeping, socialising, artistic creativity);
• spontaneous workshop slots where you can share something you are thinking about/challenged by/researching – inviting others to hear about it and share ideas;
• opportunity to explore challenges to ministry and leadership, and to share our stories of change and hope;
• renewal of our discernment about what God is calling us to in our organising work;
• inspiration from one another: practitioners, theologians, church leaders, experienced organisers;
• the opportunity to contribute to building resources for wider use by CUK’s Churches’ Community of Practice;
• practical tools for doing things differently when we re-enter the fray.