Labyrinth Retreat: Ask for the Ancient Paths, and find rest for your Soul.
For centuries, followers of ‘The Way’ have used floor and finger labyrinths as a symbol of pilgrimage and embodied prayer. Labyrinths are found in parks, gardens, hospitals, hospices, retreat centres, health facilities, churches, cathedrals, universities, and schools. We will look at the fascinating history of labyrinths as sacred spaces, their shapes, symbolism, stories, spirituality and significance in our personal journeys as a way to ‘slow down to catch up with your soul’.
We will explore how to create and use temporary pop-up labyrinths, make and draw finger labyrinths, discover their mental and physical health benefits and help others incorporate them into their prayer and spiritual practices. There will be indoor and outdoor labyrinths, including Launde Abbey’s labyrinth in the garden and a candle-lit labyrinth walk, as well as time to enjoy a great selection of different finger labyrinths.
Throughout history, labyrinths have thrived during times of change and growth. In our world today, where there is so much uncertainty and confusion, we, too, can find clarity and direction by practising meditative prayer and contemplation. This is a time for quietness and reflection. Come experience the surprise, synchronicity, and sacredness in a breathing space that invites you to take much-needed time to rest and explore.
This retreat will also act as a Veriditas qualifying workshop for those who want to go on to seek training in labyrinth facilitation.
Jim Bailey
Jim Bailey was in ordained ministry for 30 years and is an experienced Labyrinth and SoulCollage therapeutic art facilitator, spiritual director, songwriter and member of the Northumbria Community.
“Although God is right with us
and in us and out of us and all
through us, we have to embark on
Journeys that lead us to the unexpected wonders of the
the divine… Go gently on the pilgrim paths.”
👣🌀
Retreat price: £480 (standard room) or £525 (character room)
EARLY BIRD RATE: £450 (standard room) or £495 (character room) if booked by 15th July 2024!
Price includes en-suite accommodation, all meals, and all retreat resources.
It may be possible for you to extend your stay with us by adding an extra night before or after this retreat. Please contact the Abbey directly if you would like to extend your stay.
Click here to book your place on this retreat now:
For any questions, or queries or if you’d like to know more, please call 01572 717254 or alternatively email us: info@launde.org.uk
This retreat’s theme is “Mary and Martha: homemakers and theologians”. An opportunity to consider how to value our roles within the domestic arena and the way stitched textiles enhance our environment. This week will focus on 3 stories in the Bible from the gospels of Luke and John. There will be ideas on small household items to make as well as more abstract wall hangings.
This guided walk will be led by Jo de Graaf.
Catherine Lomas was, until 2023, a parish priest and pioneer in the Diocese of Peterborough. She is now based in Wiltshire, exploring a calling as a full-time iconographer and sacred artist. Her particular interest is in the use of visual means to explore theology and spirituality, seeing our search for the Divine as sharing much in common with humanity’s innate longing for beauty. Her interest in icons began in 2007, she painted her first icon in 2016 and now exercises her priestly ministry through leading and speaking about icons, art and spirituality, as well as accepting commissions for new icons and sacred art (more details at 
Rhona is a theological educator, pastoral supervisor and spiritual director and is a regular retreat leader at Launde Abbey. She is the author of a number of books on discipleship and spirituality.