Holy Island Retreats (non-residential)
A while ago, I toured a theatre production 'Illumination’, as part of the Lindisfarne Gospels Exhibition in Durham. Researching the play was a real adventure. It is a lifetime's journey to come to a deeper knowing of the ancient Celtic Christian faith, and it continues to inspire, fascinate me and deepen my Christian spirituality. Our time in this sacred place will include prayerful and creative retreats, spiritual reflection and exploration of the compelling insights of these Celtic Saints. Retreat sessions include (weather permitting!) entering into the beautiful physical spaces of this island of St Aidan & St Cuthbert, which has been called ‘a thin place’. It is a symbolic landscape and we will reflect on various symbols, as well as being attentive to compelling pieces of art on the island. Retreat sessions vary, and have included: In the spirit of the monk Eadfrith, creator of the exquisite Lindisfarne Gospels, entering a candlelit 'Scriptorium' - every dot, every stroke is a prayer; experiencing different ways of praying, including guided imaginative prayer, eg being invited to step into your coracle with Christ and journey to the Inner Farne where the hermit St Cuthbert is living an extraordinary human life etc. There'll be time in nature, silence, discussion, music, art.... We will take time out to soak in and simply ‘be’ in this ancient place of beauty. This is an opportunity to deepen faith and give time to life’s journey. And all sessions are optional, so you can be free to move where the wind of the Holy Spirit blows... The sessions will take place on the island and mainly at the beautiful, spacious St Cuthbert's Centre in the village. These retreats always seem to be graced with insight, enjoyment and spiritual depth. Holy Island is a wonderful place to retreat to!
If you're interested in attending, do feel free to contact me,
Donna (Retreat Leader).
DATES:
Monday 12th to Friday 16th October 2026
Monday 4th to Friday 8th October 2027
Please book accommodation asap to avoid disappointment.
St Aidan's Sculpture by Kathleen Parbury
St Aidan's Sculpture by Kathleen Parbury
The 7 retreat sessions will take place 7-9pm on Monday, 10.30am-12.30pm and 7-9pm on Tuesday, 10.30am-12.30pm, 2-4pm and
7-9pm on Wednesday, 10.30am - 12.30pm and 2-4pm on Thursday, then 10.30am-12pm on Friday. These may vary slightly. You'll need to choose and sort out your own accommodation and meals - this gives you the freedom to stay where you feel comfortable. To express an interest in attending and for further information, please contact: Donna Worthington: Retreat Leader
Further information regarding accommodation on Holy Island can be found here >>>
NB If you have a group of your own and intend to host a Holy Island Retreat, please feel free to get in contact, if you would like me to be the visiting guest retreat leader.
St Cuthbert’s Island
Retreat Leader, Donna Worthington
