House Closed
Nether Springs is closed following the Easter workshop.
What's On at Nether Springs
People come to stay at Nether Springs for all sorts of reasons, maybe because it’s ‘home’, maybe for some space, maybe to join in one of the retreats, or maybe a mixture of all of these. All are welcome at any time, regardless of the whether you would like to take part in the programmed retreat or not.
Below, you can find the programme of retreats listed by month or you can download the 2019 Nether Springs Programme. All of the retreats (general arrival time being 3pm-5pm) hosted at Nether Springs are held within the rhythm of the day.
If you would like to book onto one of the retreats, or to come just for some space, please contact the Community Office
Please also take some time to read the frequently asked questions about staying at Nether Springs.
April 2019
A Time for Everything
Join in with the life of the house based on the monastic daily rhythm of prayer, work, study/reflection, solitude and community. No set programme or teaching provided, apart from an introduction on the first night. Just time to come and be yourself.
May 2019
In God’s Image – Learning to Love Ourselves as We Love Others
Life presents many challenges and this weekend we will explore how to love and nurture our whole selves in the practical, day to day living of it.
Embodied Holiness
There comes a point when we can have a good look at our bodies and say, “Here I am. This is the body-like-no-other that my life has shaped. I live here. This is my soul’s address”, advocates Barbara Brown Taylor. Many of us struggle with wearing our own skin, but what we can miss, in […]
Contemplative Awareness
A led retreat that explores embracing of a way of life that is open to finding God in all things and all things in God. We’ll draw on the wisdom of Celtic Spirituality to help us learn to see the simplest of daily tasks as a sacrament. We will explore aspects of contemplative life and […]
Seeking God for Yourself
No one else can build a relationship for us. If we want to get to know someone, then we have to spend time together, listen to each other and share at least part of our lives with them. The same is true if we want to build a relationship with God. There is no substitute […]
Community Introduction
An introductory retreat outlining the history, vocation and novitiate process of the Northumbria Community. An essential retreat for all who want to explore their relationship with the Community. Please note: Participation in the first evening session is essential.
Being Who You Are: An Individually-Guided Retreat
Spiritual formation is cooperating with the inner work of transformation the Spirit of God is seeking to accomplish in you. The Spirit’s purpose is not to turn you into a different person, but to make you into the best ‘you’ that you can be. An opportunity to explore, with the support of your retreat guide […]
House Closed
Nether Springs is closed for three days every month as part of the resident community’s commitment to a rhythm of life.
A Time for Everything
Join in with the life of the house based on the monastic daily rhythm of prayer, work, study/reflection, solitude and community. No set programme or teaching provided, apart from an introduction on the first night. Just time to come and be yourself.
Growing In Contemplative Awareness Through Art
This weekend we want to: Encounter and collaborate with our Creator God through the process of making. Explore how this can nurture our awareness of and relationship with Him. All art supplies will be provided to work on a variety of projects. No previous artistic experience needed.
June 2019
Small-Stitched Collage
During this workshop we will explore the possibilities of using a random collection of textiles and stitches to build up a collage piece. Sometimes it is useful to work without a clear idea of what you intend to create and discover processes by chance and develop ideas by experimenting with colour, surface, texture and design. […]
Trustees Weekend *
*Please note. The house is only open to Trustees of the Northumbria Community this weekend.
Journeying with Jonah
We invite you… to take a walk on the wet side(!) with the reluctant prophet Jonah. Bring your wellies; bring your wetsuits; bring your imagination and join us as we dive into this classic fishy tale and have a whale of a time exploring it together. [Editor’s note – okay, so the wellies and wetsuits […]
Through the Year with Charles Wesley
In this retreat, we will be using the hymns and life of Charles Wesley as a doorway to prayer, as a way to deepen our faith and relationship to God. Charles Wesley (not to be confused with his brother John) was a fine poet and wrote well over 7000 hymns and poems, many of which […]
For Where Your Treasure Is, There Your Heart Will Be Also
This retreat will focus on trust as a key aspect of our faith journeys. We’ll be using a creative project to help us consider what trust means for us and in what/whom we put our trust. So, the retreat will combine times of led reflection, creative exploration, and time alone with God.
Prayer Drumming
Join with some seasoned prayer drummers to listen to God’s heartbeat and to one another as we learn to express our praise, prayer and lament through one of the most ancient and universal of instruments. Bring a drum if you have one. No previous drumming experience required.
Listening to the Heartbeat of God: An Individually Guided Retreat
In the Gospel of John, we find the Beloved Disciple at the Last Supper, leaning against Jesus, lying on his breast, reclining… presumably he was near enough to hear his heartbeat, if he chose to listen. This is a time to receive individual support and guidance as you to draw near to Christ as his […]
House Closed
Nether Springs is closed for three days every month as part of the resident community’s commitment to a rhythm of life.
July 2019
Community Introduction
An introductory retreat outlining the history, vocation and novitiate process of the Northumbria Community. An essential retreat for all who want to explore their relationship with the Community. Please note: Participation in the first evening session is essential.
A Time for Everything **
** Please note change of date (from 12 – 14 July 2019 to 5 – 7 July 2019)…………….
Join in with the life of the house based on the monastic daily rhythm of prayer, work, study/reflection, solitude and community. No set programme or teaching provided, apart from an introduction on the first night. Just time to come and be yourself.
I Still and Quiet My Soul
O Lord, my heart is not lifted up, my eyes are not raised too high; I do not occupy myself with things too great and too marvelous for me. But I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with its mother; my soul is like the weaned child that is with me. O […]
Introduction to Ignatian Prayer **
** Please note change of date (from 5 – 7 July 2019 to 12 – 14 July 2019)……….
Come and explore new ways of praying including the imaginative contemplation of a gospel passage and a way to reflect on our day with the examen prayer. Ignatian spirituality can help us to pay more attention to God, and help us understand and identify His actions in our lives.
The Courage of Vulnerability
Vulnerability is the core, the heart, the centre of meaningful human experiences…. It is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy and creativity. It is the source of hope, empathy, accountability and authenticity. If we want greater clarity in our purpose or deeper and more meaningful spiritual lives, vulnerability is the path. ~Brené Brown […]
The Seven Sacred Spaces
The monastic tradition, as lived out through its diverse buildings, offers us a lens to glimpse a richer way ‘to be church’ as well as insights into quality community and even the nature of being human. Come and explore what are called The Seven Sacred Spaces in a setting that offers windows into all of them.
Seeking God at the Crossroads: An Individually Guided Retreat
‘This is what the LORD says, “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.”’ ~Jeremiah 6:16 A chance to reflect on life-transitions with someone who will listen with you to God’s work at the […]
House Closed
Nether Springs is closed for three days every month as part of the resident community’s commitment to a rhythm of life.
The Wonder of the Woods
An opportunity to explore our long held fascination with trees, woods and forests. Using science, story-telling and a sense of curiosity we will discover together what trees might have to say about God, faith and Community. The retreat may also include an opportunity to explore further afield from Nether Springs.
August 2019
Family Week
An opportunity for families to be together, sharing in the life and rhythm of Nether Springs and to use this home as a base for holiday exploration in Northumberland. Retreat ends after lunch on Saturday. Suggested donation for each family: one adult offers full donation, spouse/partner and children under 16 half donation, children under 8 […]
A Time for Everything
Join in with the life of the house based on the monastic daily rhythm of prayer, work, study/reflection, solitude and community. No set programme or teaching provided, apart from an introduction on the first night. Just time to come and be yourself.
Celtic Saints: St Ninian
Romano Briton Ninian set aside his Cumbrian royal privileges to follow God’s call. After studies in Rome, on his way homeward he found his way for life in the inspiration of St. Martin in Tours. In Galloway he founded ‘Candida Casa’. From this place the message of Christ reached the known ‘ends of the the […]
Being Who You Are: An Individually-Guided Retreat
Spiritual formation is cooperating with the inner work of transformation the Spirit of God is seeking to accomplish in you. The Spirit’s purpose is not to turn you into a different person, but to make you into the best ‘you’ that you can be. An opportunity to explore, with the support of your retreat guide […]
House Closed
Nether Springs is closed for three days every month as part of the resident community’s commitment to a rhythm of life.
I Still and Quiet My Soul
This retreat offers you the opportunity to spend time with God within the daily life and rhythm of the community at Nether Springs. No set programme or teaching is provided, apart from an introduction on the first night. It is simply time to come and be yourself.
Celtic Saints: St Aidan
Aidan travelled from the Isle of Iona to Northumberland at the request of King Oswald to bring the light of the Gospel to this land. He was known for speaking out courageously, wisely, and yet also graciously, living with simplicity and giving with extraordinary generosity to those in need. This led retreat will celebrate through […]
September 2019
Soul Friendship and the Gift of Listening
An opportunity for Companions, Friends and others to share what ‘Soul Friendship’ means for each of us. Following the example of ‘good ones of old’ (Jesus, Desert Fathers and Mothers, Celtic saints, Medieval mystics), we will reflect on the meaning of spiritual friendship, listening, accompaniment and direction in our own lives and within the Northumbria […]
Trustees Weekend*
*Please note. The house is only open to Trustees of the Northumbria Community this weekend.
Red Tent Women’s Retreat
The idea of the ‘Red Tent’ is being adapted from its ancient use to one that provides a space for women today to come together to rest, replenish and connect. In this retreat, women of all ages and backgrounds are invited to share their lives, share their wisdom, share their laughter and share their sorrow, […]
Finding God in Who You are: An Exploration of Personality and Spirituality with the Help of the Myers Briggs Type Indicator
This course is for people who are interested in making connections between personality and spirituality. There will be an opportunity to complete the MBTI questionnaire, if you haven’t done so before, and to talk it through in an individual session. In the group we will think about themes like: ‘Finding God Within & Without’, ‘Finding […]
Let God Grow in You
Let the Son of God grow in thee, for he is formed in thee, and from thee, and may become to thee a great smile and exultation and perfect joy which no-one can take from thee. How might these ancient words of Isaac of Stella inform and inspire our modern-day discipleship and spiritual formation?
Rediscovering Sabbath
We live in a culture driven by constant activity and business. The thought of resting a whole day every week might even sound scary to us as we all are affected by the pressure to do and achieve. How can we learn to stop? What lies at the heart of God’s commandment and this ancient […]
Seeking God at the Crossroads: An Individually Guided Retreat
‘This is what the LORD says, “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.”’ ~Jeremiah 6:16 A chance to reflect on life-transitions with someone who will listen with you to God’s work at the […]
House Closed
Nether Springs is closed for three days every month as part of the resident community’s commitment to a rhythm of life.
I Still and Quiet My Soul
This retreat offers you the opportunity to spend time with God within the daily life and rhythm of the community at Nether Springs. No set programme or teaching is provided, apart from an introduction on the first night. It is simply time to come and be yourself.
October 2019
Community Introduction
An introductory retreat outlining the history, vocation and novitiate process of the Northumbria Community. An essential retreat for all who want to explore their relationship with the Community. Please note: Participation in the first evening session is essential.
Mezuzahing Our Lives
Muzahzahing Our Lives
Come and explore what it might mean to permeate our lives, the church and the world with an intentional way for living that seeks to bring awareness of God into all of life and work.
I Still and Quiet My Soul
This retreat offers you the opportunity to spend time with God within the daily life and rhythm of the community at Nether Springs. No set programme or teaching is provided, apart from an introduction on the first night. It is simply time to come and be yourself.
The Wisdom of the Desert
Come and explore the history and wisdom of the Desert Fathers and Mothers, their relevance for today, and the spirituality of desert places. The Desert Monastic tradition was a great inspiration for the Celtic Church and remains foundational for the Northumbria Community today.
Given for Life: Exploring Our Motivational Gifts
Growing in knowledge of ourselves goes hand-in-hand with growing in knowledge of God. This retreat offers a well-tested and well-received tool for understanding our ‘motivational gift.’ What is it that motivates our personality, choices, and relationships with others? The teaching draws from a book of the same title and is based on Romans 12:1-8, verses […]
Being Who You Are: An Individually-Guided Retreat
Spiritual formation is cooperating with the inner work of transformation the Spirit of God is seeking to accomplish in you. The Spirit’s purpose is not to turn you into a different person, but to make you into the best ‘you’ that you can be. An opportunity to explore, with the support of your retreat guide […]
House Closed
Nether Springs is closed for three days every month as part of the resident community’s commitment to a rhythm of life.
A Time for Everything
Join in with the life of the house based on the monastic daily rhythm of prayer, work, study/reflection, solitude and community. No set programme or teaching provided, apart from an introduction on the first night. Just time to come and be yourself.
November 2019
Being With
In a world of ‘Doing’ – doing for and doing to – this retreat will take a look at the importance and power of ‘Being With’ … through friendship, through having an open table, through being good neighbours. How does ‘Availability and Vulnerability’ lead us to ‘being with’ God and others?
Blessing People and Places
The God of blessing created us to be channels of blessing to people and places. The retreat will explore the means, disciplines and resources that help us to be people of benediction whoever we are and wherever we find ourselves.
Community Introduction
An introductory retreat outlining the history, vocation and novitiate process of the Northumbria Community. An essential retreat for all who want to explore their relationship with the Community. Please note: Participation in the first evening session is essential.
The House that John Built
‘The House that John Built’ is the Northumbria Community’s telling of the lineage of the Celtic Saints, tracing the roots of this remarkable expression of the Christian faith. This retreat is an opportunity to familiarise yourself with the stories and places of a succession of saints. It will also include insights into the significance of […]
Celtic Saints: St. Hild
An opportunity to enter imaginatively into the story of this great Northern saint through storytelling, prayer and creativity. In doing so, we may discover inspiration and courage to serve with our own gifts and in our own spheres of influence.
Entering the Silence: An Individually Guided Retreat
This silent retreat is a time to seek God in the cell of your own heart, in a community of fellow seekers. Each retreatant will be paired with a companion on the journey from whom they can receive individual support and guidance. Apart from the session of spiritual accompaniment each morning, we will seek God in silence from Monday after Night Prayers until lunch on Thursday.
House Closed
Nether Springs is closed for three days every month as part of the resident community’s commitment to a rhythm of life.
Embracing Conflict
A chance to examine how you deal with life’s drama, and to learn from the example of Jesus. We’ll look at the gospels “through conflict lenses”, exploring the tensions that Jesus faced, and what it meant for him to embrace conflict. There will also be plenty of space for personal reflection and prayer. If you […]
Where The Wild Salmon Swims
The salmon was a Celtic symbol for wisdom and knowledge. This retreat is an opportunity to follow the life cycle of the salmon and discover what wisdom it still holds today to teach us about our journey with God.
December 2019
Advent Retreat
As we enter the busy seasons of Advent and Christmas, this retreat offers the opportunity to prepare for the weeks ahead, to separate the trivial from the significant, and to consider again the meaning, relevance and wonder of the Annunciation and the Incarnation of Christ. Through conversation and reflection, we’ll prepare to welcome Christ into […]
Trustees Weekend *
*Please note. The house is only open to Trustees of the Northumbria Community this weekend.
Entering the Silence: An Individually Guided Retreat
This silent retreat is a time to seek God in the cell of your own heart, in a community of fellow seekers. Each retreatant will be paired with a companion on the journey from whom they can receive individual support and guidance. Apart from the session of spiritual accompaniment each morning, we will seek God in silence from Monday after Night Prayers until lunch on Thursday.
Rest and Restoration
A Time for Everything
Join in with the life of the house based on the monastic daily rhythm of prayer, work, study/reflection, solitude and community. No set programme or teaching provided, apart from an introduction on the first night. Just time to come and be yourself.
Contemplative Awareness
A led retreat that explores embracing of a way of life that is open to finding God in all things and all things in God. We’ll draw on the wisdom of Celtic Spirituality to help us learn to see the simplest of daily tasks as a sacrament. We will explore aspects of contemplative life and […]
A Time for Everything
Join in with the life of the house based on the monastic daily rhythm of prayer, work, study/reflection, solitude and community. No set programme or teaching provided, apart from an introduction on the first night. Just time to come and be yourself.
A Time for Everything **
** Please note change of date (from 12 – 14 July 2019 to 5 – 7 July 2019)…………….
Join in with the life of the house based on the monastic daily rhythm of prayer, work, study/reflection, solitude and community. No set programme or teaching provided, apart from an introduction on the first night. Just time to come and be yourself.
I Still and Quiet My Soul
O Lord, my heart is not lifted up, my eyes are not raised too high; I do not occupy myself with things too great and too marvelous for me. But I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with its mother; my soul is like the weaned child that is with me. O […]
A Time for Everything
Join in with the life of the house based on the monastic daily rhythm of prayer, work, study/reflection, solitude and community. No set programme or teaching provided, apart from an introduction on the first night. Just time to come and be yourself.
I Still and Quiet My Soul
This retreat offers you the opportunity to spend time with God within the daily life and rhythm of the community at Nether Springs. No set programme or teaching is provided, apart from an introduction on the first night. It is simply time to come and be yourself.
Red Tent Women’s Retreat
The idea of the ‘Red Tent’ is being adapted from its ancient use to one that provides a space for women today to come together to rest, replenish and connect. In this retreat, women of all ages and backgrounds are invited to share their lives, share their wisdom, share their laughter and share their sorrow, […]
Rediscovering Sabbath
We live in a culture driven by constant activity and business. The thought of resting a whole day every week might even sound scary to us as we all are affected by the pressure to do and achieve. How can we learn to stop? What lies at the heart of God’s commandment and this ancient […]
I Still and Quiet My Soul
This retreat offers you the opportunity to spend time with God within the daily life and rhythm of the community at Nether Springs. No set programme or teaching is provided, apart from an introduction on the first night. It is simply time to come and be yourself.
I Still and Quiet My Soul
This retreat offers you the opportunity to spend time with God within the daily life and rhythm of the community at Nether Springs. No set programme or teaching is provided, apart from an introduction on the first night. It is simply time to come and be yourself.
A Time for Everything
Join in with the life of the house based on the monastic daily rhythm of prayer, work, study/reflection, solitude and community. No set programme or teaching provided, apart from an introduction on the first night. Just time to come and be yourself.
Being With
In a world of ‘Doing’ – doing for and doing to – this retreat will take a look at the importance and power of ‘Being With’ … through friendship, through having an open table, through being good neighbours. How does ‘Availability and Vulnerability’ lead us to ‘being with’ God and others?
Embracing Conflict
A chance to examine how you deal with life’s drama, and to learn from the example of Jesus. We’ll look at the gospels “through conflict lenses”, exploring the tensions that Jesus faced, and what it meant for him to embrace conflict. There will also be plenty of space for personal reflection and prayer. If you […]
Advent Retreat
As we enter the busy seasons of Advent and Christmas, this retreat offers the opportunity to prepare for the weeks ahead, to separate the trivial from the significant, and to consider again the meaning, relevance and wonder of the Annunciation and the Incarnation of Christ. Through conversation and reflection, we’ll prepare to welcome Christ into […]
Spiritual Development
Contemplative Awareness
A led retreat that explores embracing of a way of life that is open to finding God in all things and all things in God. We’ll draw on the wisdom of Celtic Spirituality to help us learn to see the simplest of daily tasks as a sacrament. We will explore aspects of contemplative life and […]
Through the Year with Charles Wesley
In this retreat, we will be using the hymns and life of Charles Wesley as a doorway to prayer, as a way to deepen our faith and relationship to God. Charles Wesley (not to be confused with his brother John) was a fine poet and wrote well over 7000 hymns and poems, many of which […]
For Where Your Treasure Is, There Your Heart Will Be Also
This retreat will focus on trust as a key aspect of our faith journeys. We’ll be using a creative project to help us consider what trust means for us and in what/whom we put our trust. So, the retreat will combine times of led reflection, creative exploration, and time alone with God.
Introduction to Ignatian Prayer **
** Please note change of date (from 5 – 7 July 2019 to 12 – 14 July 2019)……….
Come and explore new ways of praying including the imaginative contemplation of a gospel passage and a way to reflect on our day with the examen prayer. Ignatian spirituality can help us to pay more attention to God, and help us understand and identify His actions in our lives.
The Courage of Vulnerability
Vulnerability is the core, the heart, the centre of meaningful human experiences…. It is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy and creativity. It is the source of hope, empathy, accountability and authenticity. If we want greater clarity in our purpose or deeper and more meaningful spiritual lives, vulnerability is the path. ~Brené Brown […]
The Seven Sacred Spaces
The monastic tradition, as lived out through its diverse buildings, offers us a lens to glimpse a richer way ‘to be church’ as well as insights into quality community and even the nature of being human. Come and explore what are called The Seven Sacred Spaces in a setting that offers windows into all of them.
Soul Friendship and the Gift of Listening
An opportunity for Companions, Friends and others to share what ‘Soul Friendship’ means for each of us. Following the example of ‘good ones of old’ (Jesus, Desert Fathers and Mothers, Celtic saints, Medieval mystics), we will reflect on the meaning of spiritual friendship, listening, accompaniment and direction in our own lives and within the Northumbria […]
Red Tent Women’s Retreat
The idea of the ‘Red Tent’ is being adapted from its ancient use to one that provides a space for women today to come together to rest, replenish and connect. In this retreat, women of all ages and backgrounds are invited to share their lives, share their wisdom, share their laughter and share their sorrow, […]
Finding God in Who You are: An Exploration of Personality and Spirituality with the Help of the Myers Briggs Type Indicator
This course is for people who are interested in making connections between personality and spirituality. There will be an opportunity to complete the MBTI questionnaire, if you haven’t done so before, and to talk it through in an individual session. In the group we will think about themes like: ‘Finding God Within & Without’, ‘Finding […]
Let God Grow in You
Let the Son of God grow in thee, for he is formed in thee, and from thee, and may become to thee a great smile and exultation and perfect joy which no-one can take from thee. How might these ancient words of Isaac of Stella inform and inspire our modern-day discipleship and spiritual formation?
Rediscovering Sabbath
We live in a culture driven by constant activity and business. The thought of resting a whole day every week might even sound scary to us as we all are affected by the pressure to do and achieve. How can we learn to stop? What lies at the heart of God’s commandment and this ancient […]
Muzahzahing Our Lives
Come and explore what it might mean to permeate our lives, the church and the world with an intentional way for living that seeks to bring awareness of God into all of life and work.
The Wisdom of the Desert
Come and explore the history and wisdom of the Desert Fathers and Mothers, their relevance for today, and the spirituality of desert places. The Desert Monastic tradition was a great inspiration for the Celtic Church and remains foundational for the Northumbria Community today.
Given for Life: Exploring Our Motivational Gifts
Growing in knowledge of ourselves goes hand-in-hand with growing in knowledge of God. This retreat offers a well-tested and well-received tool for understanding our ‘motivational gift.’ What is it that motivates our personality, choices, and relationships with others? The teaching draws from a book of the same title and is based on Romans 12:1-8, verses […]
Being With
In a world of ‘Doing’ – doing for and doing to – this retreat will take a look at the importance and power of ‘Being With’ … through friendship, through having an open table, through being good neighbours. How does ‘Availability and Vulnerability’ lead us to ‘being with’ God and others?
Blessing People and Places
The God of blessing created us to be channels of blessing to people and places. The retreat will explore the means, disciplines and resources that help us to be people of benediction whoever we are and wherever we find ourselves.
The House that John Built
‘The House that John Built’ is the Northumbria Community’s telling of the lineage of the Celtic Saints, tracing the roots of this remarkable expression of the Christian faith. This retreat is an opportunity to familiarise yourself with the stories and places of a succession of saints. It will also include insights into the significance of […]
Celtic Saints: St. Hild
An opportunity to enter imaginatively into the story of this great Northern saint through storytelling, prayer and creativity. In doing so, we may discover inspiration and courage to serve with our own gifts and in our own spheres of influence.
Embracing Conflict
A chance to examine how you deal with life’s drama, and to learn from the example of Jesus. We’ll look at the gospels “through conflict lenses”, exploring the tensions that Jesus faced, and what it meant for him to embrace conflict. There will also be plenty of space for personal reflection and prayer. If you […]
Where The Wild Salmon Swims
The salmon was a Celtic symbol for wisdom and knowledge. This retreat is an opportunity to follow the life cycle of the salmon and discover what wisdom it still holds today to teach us about our journey with God.
Advent Retreat
As we enter the busy seasons of Advent and Christmas, this retreat offers the opportunity to prepare for the weeks ahead, to separate the trivial from the significant, and to consider again the meaning, relevance and wonder of the Annunciation and the Incarnation of Christ. Through conversation and reflection, we’ll prepare to welcome Christ into […]
Exploring the Northumbria Community
Community Introduction
An introductory retreat outlining the history, vocation and novitiate process of the Northumbria Community. An essential retreat for all who want to explore their relationship with the Community. Please note: Participation in the first evening session is essential.
Prayer Drumming
Join with some seasoned prayer drummers to listen to God’s heartbeat and to one another as we learn to express our praise, prayer and lament through one of the most ancient and universal of instruments. Bring a drum if you have one. No previous drumming experience required.
Community Introduction
An introductory retreat outlining the history, vocation and novitiate process of the Northumbria Community. An essential retreat for all who want to explore their relationship with the Community. Please note: Participation in the first evening session is essential.
Community Introduction
An introductory retreat outlining the history, vocation and novitiate process of the Northumbria Community. An essential retreat for all who want to explore their relationship with the Community. Please note: Participation in the first evening session is essential.
Being With
In a world of ‘Doing’ – doing for and doing to – this retreat will take a look at the importance and power of ‘Being With’ … through friendship, through having an open table, through being good neighbours. How does ‘Availability and Vulnerability’ lead us to ‘being with’ God and others?
Community Introduction
An introductory retreat outlining the history, vocation and novitiate process of the Northumbria Community. An essential retreat for all who want to explore their relationship with the Community. Please note: Participation in the first evening session is essential.
The House that John Built
‘The House that John Built’ is the Northumbria Community’s telling of the lineage of the Celtic Saints, tracing the roots of this remarkable expression of the Christian faith. This retreat is an opportunity to familiarise yourself with the stories and places of a succession of saints. It will also include insights into the significance of […]
Celtic Saints: St. Hild
An opportunity to enter imaginatively into the story of this great Northern saint through storytelling, prayer and creativity. In doing so, we may discover inspiration and courage to serve with our own gifts and in our own spheres of influence.
Individual Guided Retreats
Being Who You Are: An Individually-Guided Retreat
Spiritual formation is cooperating with the inner work of transformation the Spirit of God is seeking to accomplish in you. The Spirit’s purpose is not to turn you into a different person, but to make you into the best ‘you’ that you can be. An opportunity to explore, with the support of your retreat guide […]
Listening to the Heartbeat of God: An Individually Guided Retreat
In the Gospel of John, we find the Beloved Disciple at the Last Supper, leaning against Jesus, lying on his breast, reclining… presumably he was near enough to hear his heartbeat, if he chose to listen. This is a time to receive individual support and guidance as you to draw near to Christ as his […]
Seeking God at the Crossroads: An Individually Guided Retreat
‘This is what the LORD says, “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.”’ ~Jeremiah 6:16 A chance to reflect on life-transitions with someone who will listen with you to God’s work at the […]
Being Who You Are: An Individually-Guided Retreat
Spiritual formation is cooperating with the inner work of transformation the Spirit of God is seeking to accomplish in you. The Spirit’s purpose is not to turn you into a different person, but to make you into the best ‘you’ that you can be. An opportunity to explore, with the support of your retreat guide […]
Seeking God at the Crossroads: An Individually Guided Retreat
‘This is what the LORD says, “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.”’ ~Jeremiah 6:16 A chance to reflect on life-transitions with someone who will listen with you to God’s work at the […]
Being Who You Are: An Individually-Guided Retreat
Spiritual formation is cooperating with the inner work of transformation the Spirit of God is seeking to accomplish in you. The Spirit’s purpose is not to turn you into a different person, but to make you into the best ‘you’ that you can be. An opportunity to explore, with the support of your retreat guide […]
Entering the Silence: An Individually Guided Retreat
This silent retreat is a time to seek God in the cell of your own heart, in a community of fellow seekers. Each retreatant will be paired with a companion on the journey from whom they can receive individual support and guidance. Apart from the session of spiritual accompaniment each morning, we will seek God in silence from Monday after Night Prayers until lunch on Thursday.
Entering the Silence: An Individually Guided Retreat
This silent retreat is a time to seek God in the cell of your own heart, in a community of fellow seekers. Each retreatant will be paired with a companion on the journey from whom they can receive individual support and guidance. Apart from the session of spiritual accompaniment each morning, we will seek God in silence from Monday after Night Prayers until lunch on Thursday.
Creativity & Interests
Growing In Contemplative Awareness Through Art
This weekend we want to: Encounter and collaborate with our Creator God through the process of making. Explore how this can nurture our awareness of and relationship with Him. All art supplies will be provided to work on a variety of projects. No previous artistic experience needed.
Small-Stitched Collage
During this workshop we will explore the possibilities of using a random collection of textiles and stitches to build up a collage piece. Sometimes it is useful to work without a clear idea of what you intend to create and discover processes by chance and develop ideas by experimenting with colour, surface, texture and design. […]
Journeying with Jonah
We invite you… to take a walk on the wet side(!) with the reluctant prophet Jonah. Bring your wellies; bring your wetsuits; bring your imagination and join us as we dive into this classic fishy tale and have a whale of a time exploring it together. [Editor’s note – okay, so the wellies and wetsuits […]
Through the Year with Charles Wesley
In this retreat, we will be using the hymns and life of Charles Wesley as a doorway to prayer, as a way to deepen our faith and relationship to God. Charles Wesley (not to be confused with his brother John) was a fine poet and wrote well over 7000 hymns and poems, many of which […]
For Where Your Treasure Is, There Your Heart Will Be Also
This retreat will focus on trust as a key aspect of our faith journeys. We’ll be using a creative project to help us consider what trust means for us and in what/whom we put our trust. So, the retreat will combine times of led reflection, creative exploration, and time alone with God.
Prayer Drumming
Join with some seasoned prayer drummers to listen to God’s heartbeat and to one another as we learn to express our praise, prayer and lament through one of the most ancient and universal of instruments. Bring a drum if you have one. No previous drumming experience required.
The Courage of Vulnerability
Vulnerability is the core, the heart, the centre of meaningful human experiences…. It is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy and creativity. It is the source of hope, empathy, accountability and authenticity. If we want greater clarity in our purpose or deeper and more meaningful spiritual lives, vulnerability is the path. ~Brené Brown […]
The Seven Sacred Spaces
The monastic tradition, as lived out through its diverse buildings, offers us a lens to glimpse a richer way ‘to be church’ as well as insights into quality community and even the nature of being human. Come and explore what are called The Seven Sacred Spaces in a setting that offers windows into all of them.
The Wonder of the Woods
An opportunity to explore our long held fascination with trees, woods and forests. Using science, story-telling and a sense of curiosity we will discover together what trees might have to say about God, faith and Community. The retreat may also include an opportunity to explore further afield from Nether Springs.
Where The Wild Salmon Swims
The salmon was a Celtic symbol for wisdom and knowledge. This retreat is an opportunity to follow the life cycle of the salmon and discover what wisdom it still holds today to teach us about our journey with God.
Leadership
Trustees Weekend *
*Please note. The house is only open to Trustees of the Northumbria Community this weekend.
For Where Your Treasure Is, There Your Heart Will Be Also
This retreat will focus on trust as a key aspect of our faith journeys. We’ll be using a creative project to help us consider what trust means for us and in what/whom we put our trust. So, the retreat will combine times of led reflection, creative exploration, and time alone with God.
Trustees Weekend*
*Please note. The house is only open to Trustees of the Northumbria Community this weekend.
Celtic Saints: St. Hild
An opportunity to enter imaginatively into the story of this great Northern saint through storytelling, prayer and creativity. In doing so, we may discover inspiration and courage to serve with our own gifts and in our own spheres of influence.
Embracing Conflict
A chance to examine how you deal with life’s drama, and to learn from the example of Jesus. We’ll look at the gospels “through conflict lenses”, exploring the tensions that Jesus faced, and what it meant for him to embrace conflict. There will also be plenty of space for personal reflection and prayer. If you […]
Life Issues
The Courage of Vulnerability
Vulnerability is the core, the heart, the centre of meaningful human experiences…. It is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy and creativity. It is the source of hope, empathy, accountability and authenticity. If we want greater clarity in our purpose or deeper and more meaningful spiritual lives, vulnerability is the path. ~Brené Brown […]
Red Tent Women’s Retreat
The idea of the ‘Red Tent’ is being adapted from its ancient use to one that provides a space for women today to come together to rest, replenish and connect. In this retreat, women of all ages and backgrounds are invited to share their lives, share their wisdom, share their laughter and share their sorrow, […]
Finding God in Who You are: An Exploration of Personality and Spirituality with the Help of the Myers Briggs Type Indicator
This course is for people who are interested in making connections between personality and spirituality. There will be an opportunity to complete the MBTI questionnaire, if you haven’t done so before, and to talk it through in an individual session. In the group we will think about themes like: ‘Finding God Within & Without’, ‘Finding […]
Rediscovering Sabbath
We live in a culture driven by constant activity and business. The thought of resting a whole day every week might even sound scary to us as we all are affected by the pressure to do and achieve. How can we learn to stop? What lies at the heart of God’s commandment and this ancient […]
Given for Life: Exploring Our Motivational Gifts
Growing in knowledge of ourselves goes hand-in-hand with growing in knowledge of God. This retreat offers a well-tested and well-received tool for understanding our ‘motivational gift.’ What is it that motivates our personality, choices, and relationships with others? The teaching draws from a book of the same title and is based on Romans 12:1-8, verses […]
Being With
In a world of ‘Doing’ – doing for and doing to – this retreat will take a look at the importance and power of ‘Being With’ … through friendship, through having an open table, through being good neighbours. How does ‘Availability and Vulnerability’ lead us to ‘being with’ God and others?
Blessing People and Places
The God of blessing created us to be channels of blessing to people and places. The retreat will explore the means, disciplines and resources that help us to be people of benediction whoever we are and wherever we find ourselves.
Embracing Conflict
A chance to examine how you deal with life’s drama, and to learn from the example of Jesus. We’ll look at the gospels “through conflict lenses”, exploring the tensions that Jesus faced, and what it meant for him to embrace conflict. There will also be plenty of space for personal reflection and prayer. If you […]
Family Week
Family Week
An opportunity for families to be together, sharing in the life and rhythm of Nether Springs and to use this home as a base for holiday exploration in Northumberland. Retreat ends after lunch on Saturday. Suggested donation for each family: one adult offers full donation, spouse/partner and children under 16 half donation, children under 8 […]
Celtic Sites & Saints
Celtic Saints: St Ninian
Romano Briton Ninian set aside his Cumbrian royal privileges to follow God’s call. After studies in Rome, on his way homeward he found his way for life in the inspiration of St. Martin in Tours. In Galloway he founded ‘Candida Casa’. From this place the message of Christ reached the known ‘ends of the the […]
Celtic Saints: St Aidan
Aidan travelled from the Isle of Iona to Northumberland at the request of King Oswald to bring the light of the Gospel to this land. He was known for speaking out courageously, wisely, and yet also graciously, living with simplicity and giving with extraordinary generosity to those in need. This led retreat will celebrate through […]
The House that John Built
‘The House that John Built’ is the Northumbria Community’s telling of the lineage of the Celtic Saints, tracing the roots of this remarkable expression of the Christian faith. This retreat is an opportunity to familiarise yourself with the stories and places of a succession of saints. It will also include insights into the significance of […]
Celtic Saints: St. Hild
An opportunity to enter imaginatively into the story of this great Northern saint through storytelling, prayer and creativity. In doing so, we may discover inspiration and courage to serve with our own gifts and in our own spheres of influence.
Advent, Lent & Easter
Advent Retreat
As we enter the busy seasons of Advent and Christmas, this retreat offers the opportunity to prepare for the weeks ahead, to separate the trivial from the significant, and to consider again the meaning, relevance and wonder of the Annunciation and the Incarnation of Christ. Through conversation and reflection, we’ll prepare to welcome Christ into […]