'A Celebration of Light: Remembering our Essential Goodness' day retreat

Event description

At a time when the world can seem filled with loud, angry voices speaking words of division, conflict and judgement, join us for a day of shared silence celebrating the essential goodness and pristine nature of our being.

Drawing on wisdom teachings from across the great spiritual traditions of the world, we will explore the universal image of light and the many ways it has been used to speak about the goodness – the love, compassion, peace and awareness - that is the deepest truth of who we are.

• ‘The nature of mind is clear light.’ The Perfection of Wisdom Sūtra
• ‘Everywhere is to be found the reflection of eternal light, so that in the light the human mind may find its splendour and become entirely light.’ St Gregory Nazianzen

The day will offer a gentle flow of short talks, silent sitting and walking meditation, and opportunities for conversation. Through the day, we will practise opening to the goodness of our being, recognising the light within ourselves, in one another and all creation. Whether we are sitting, walking or drinking a cup of tea, we can practice living each moment deeply. Each breath can become a silent ‘thank you’ for the gift of our life and for each other.

• ‘The spirit is a light from the Light of God.’  Ibn ʿArabī, from The Meccan Revelations
• ‘The Self is called light, because it is self-luminous.’ Śaṅkara, Commentary on the Bṛhadāraṇyaka Upaniṣad

We hope you can join us for this special day of shared silence and friendship.

Who is this for?

This retreat is an invitation to explore an ancient wisdom-path that has much to offer our contemporary culture. It has been carefully crafted to be inclusive and accessible, welcoming anyone seeking truth, peace, and spiritual renewal, regardless of their faith, beliefs or previous experience of meditation.

Retreat leader

Chris Whittington is the Founder of The School of Contemplative Life. He was introduced to contemplative practice during several years of formation when he lived at the Benedictine monastery of Prinknash Abbey in England. Chris’ monastic teachers taught meditation as a universal wisdom found within all the great spiritual traditions, a pathway to peace and solidarity with people of all faiths and none. Following an introduction by the Abbot of the Prinknash community, Chris subsequently studied at the Dalai Lama’s monastery in Dharamshala, India.

Chris regularly delivers talks, workshops and retreats and has introduced the practice of meditation in the Christian tradition to thousands of people in the UK and abroad. He is known for his ability to communicate the subtleties of the practice and complex spiritual texts in simple, practical ways, resonant with the challenges of daily life.

Chris is the author of the book The Missing Peace published by Canterbury Press.

Terms and conditions

In accordance with our Terms and Conditions (available in full here), our events should be understood as only providing spiritual guidance and advice to help participants deepen their own meditation practice and understanding. Many people report subjective improvements in general wellbeing through meditation practice. However, if you or anyone you intend to book a ticket for suffer from any mental, emotional or physical health conditions, please ask your medical practitioner if it is advisable for you/them to attend an event with us.

All our paid-for events are priced to cover costs (rather than make a profit) so they are as accessible as possible. However, if you are struggling to make ends meet, please don't hesitate to email us and ask for information about our bursaries.