On July 16th, the Kirkby healing team members set off for a quiet day retreat to St. Melangell’s Church in the Berwyn Mountains, a remote and beautiful spot at the head of the Tanet Valley in Wales.
Our aim was to reflect on the life of Jesus through the cycle of Grace (some insights developed by Frank Lake based on the work of Emile Brunner). The first input being on acceptance, the second sustenance, the third Significance and the fourth achievement – much food for thought and self analysis, believe you me!
At 12 noon we walked down from our base to the church to celebrate the eucharist, with the opportunity for prayers for healing for those in need. The feeling of reverence as you entered this place of worship reminded one strongly of the many who had worshipped there way back from the 12th century, and the effigies, the oak screen and stone carvings tll the history of the church. The shrine of St. Melangall, situated behind the altar became the focal point of the service.
Returning to base for lunch we discovered it was raining: surprise, surprise!! However we enjoyed sharing our thoughts together whilst we ate.
After lunch we then continued with our next input and between each session continued with our own quiet time and prayers wherever we wished. Undaunted by the weather we wandered outside! In the midst of all the mountains it was so quiet and so peaceful! Who could not help but feel the presence of the Lord in such beautiful surroundings?
After tea and cake, more input and further quiet time for meditation before returning to church again for evening prayer which took place around the shrine. A final time to spend with our Lord before the minibus journey home.
If only the nations of the world could have shared the peace of St. Melangell, it would become a far, far better place. As we left with that peace, serenity and tranquility in our hearts and a quietness of spirit from the day, we gave thanks for the wonderful fellowship and sharing within our group and for a day well spent. Thank you to all concerned.
Written by Wyn, a member of the group
This was an amazing day of peace and serenity. A very worthwhile and valuabe experience, I certainly gained alot from it and spending that time away just with you and God is something we should do on a more regular basis. I don’t know about others but God really spoke to me that day!