Crafting retreat
Led by Anne Newport
Crafty ways to slow you down and sustain your spiritual life. Perhaps you would like to learn a simple craft like quilting, or brush up on a craft such as knitting, crochet, patchwork or modern embroidery, blackwork or goldwork. New for 2026 will be Canvas work, some more interesting crochet motifs, and Fairisle and Aran knitting. If you are a complete beginner, that is fine as by the time you leave, you will not be! Perhaps you already have a craft that you could use to bring focus to your time with God. The retreat will include quiet crafting together or alone, gentle tuition, time to talk, and time to be silent. You will be encouraged to seek inspiration from scripture, art and nature. It will encourage you to find ways of using craft for re-creation in your daily life. You may find it a good resource for helping to stay afloat in ministry, or for achieving a better work/life balance.
• daily offices with reflections • one eucharist • hands-on craft activities with some materials supplied • Silence from compline until morning prayer.
The subject for reflection in 2026 is The Psalms, and through our readings and reflections we will be exploring how we can use them to seek peace in our lives.
I firmly believe that ‘when a country loses its craft it loses its soul’. During this retreat we will be focussing on different ways of finding space with God through crafts. This year although we will be supplying some materials, we are encouraging you to think about what you would like to do in advance, and bring with you perhaps an assortment of fabric, if you would like to try quilting, either hand or machine, or some double knitting wool and size 4mm needles /crochet hook if you would like to try knitting or crochet. Source patterns, and some materials will be suppied. Bring a pair of old jeans, and turn them into a useful bag! We will have 3 sewing machines, but if you would like to bring your own, you are very welcome.
We will look at sources and ideas for creativity as well as potential projects.
Above all, I hope and pray that the retreat will enable you to step away from your busy world and find new ways of relaxing, and unwinding, and coming closer to God.
Anne Newport (Charlton) is a retired parish priest who has used craft as a means of balancing her daily life for many years. She has exhibited her work and led courses in various craft techniques.
This event is open to everyone.
Arrival: 3 - 5pm
Mon 9th November
2026
Departure: 10am
Fri 13th November
2026
Residential - £550 (20% ministry discount)
