Led by Audrey Hamilton

‘If anyone is seeking God, the Beloved is seeking that person much more’

                                 (John of the Cross, The Living Flame of Love 3:28) 

Frequently referred to as the ‘Mystical Doctor’ for his writings on the intimacy of union with God in prayer, John of the Cross is a sure guide for our spiritual lives.

Join us as we explore the life and teaching of this great 16th Century Carmelite saint and close associate of St Teresa of Avila.  John knew the extremes of poverty, hardship and pain but in the depths of suffering also knew the beauty and goodness of God dwelling deep within his soul.   He believed that God pours these gifts on all of creation, clothing everything entirely in beauty and dignity.  We come to know and understand this more and more as we are drawn into intimate union with the Beloved.

As we pray with some of John’s writings, so rich in Scripture, may we too rejoice in our Beloved and learn to behold ourselves in his beauty (cf. Spiritual Canticle, 36).

Starts at 10am and finishes at 4pm. Please bring a packed lunch.

Cost: £35

Cost including B&B: £110

Audrey is a long-standing friend of the House of Prayer. Formed in the Ignatian and Carmelite traditions she offers spiritual direction, retreats and workshops and is passionate about helping people connect with God in the busyness of daily life. She is a facilitator on the Spiritual Direction Formation Programme at Boars Hill and also regularly contributes to the programme at the Cockfosters Centre for Spirituality in North London and the London Centre for Spiritual Direction.

Icon of St John of the Cross by the Carmelite Nuns of Lebanon (Carmel of the Theotokos)