Ask for the Ancient Paths
Led by Clare Callanan
To be a pilgrim is to walk a path with an intention in mind. Pilgrimage as an important human activity has been undertaken for hundreds of years across all faiths and cultures. There is sacredness all around us in the landscape, in memory, in everyday life. Recognising that sacredness and realigning ourselves so that we are focused on that engagement is key to the pilgrimage journey. This retreat will explore every place as holy ground and use the Sheldon space and land to create intentional walks. (All aspects of mobility and ability will be allowed for).
The labyrinth is an ancient path, known to have existed for over 4000 years, resonating with people all over the world with different cultures, faiths and beliefs. Indeed, it is thought that at one time to walk a labyrinth was an alternative to a pilgrimage to Rome or Jerusalem. In our time of increasing speed and fast living, the labyrinth can be that path that inspires, consoles, restore, calms and awakens us. During the retreat you will be invited to include all these aspects of the labyrinth in your spiritual journey, as well as using the wonderful outdoor Chartres design labyrinth at Sheldon. Within the dance of the ebb and flow of the labyrinth we will ask for the ancient paths and find rest for our souls (Jeremiah 6.16)
This will be a silent retreat with daily input sessions, daily prayers with the community and one Holy Communion. There will be optional invitations and suggestions to continue with the theme in your own time.
Clare Callanan has a background in teaching prior to her ordination within the United Reformed Church. The majority of her ministry has been in chaplaincy within hospital, military and charity sectors. Her discovery of the labyrinth as a spiritual tool grew out of a dry period within her own life. After a week working with Revd Dr Lauren Artress at Chartres Cathedral and training as a labyrinth facilitator, Clare has been involved with labyrinths in art, history, construction, spirituality and sacred geometry. She has recently found the practice of walking with intention on pilgrimage journeys to be restorative and healing. In September 2025 Clare walked 110km of the Camino de Santiago, starting in Ourences, Galicia, and following the Via de Sanabres.
She continues to serve through leading worship locally, as a spiritual director, charity chaplaincy, and volunteering at Sheldon. Clare is married with three adult step children and two of her own adult children.
This event is open to everyone.
Arrival: 3 - 5pm
Mon 22nd June
2026
Departure: 10am
Fri 26th June
2026
Residential - £550 (20% ministry discount)
