The spiritual art of meditation (also known as silent prayer) is an ancient practice that opens us to the Sacred within.

As we learn to recognise the forces that drive us, and let go of our preoccupations and resistances, we begin to live from our innate potential for peace, for compassion, for relationship. 

Each online gathering includes a short teaching, a period of silent meditation practice (preceded by some basic guidelines for anyone who is new), and an opportunity for conversation afterwards.

The sessions are guided by Chris Whittington (his bio is below).  You don't need to bring anything - just yourself. Try to find a quiet space where you won't be disturbed.

Words from participants

““Meditation is a game changer. It’s no exaggeration to say that it has improved most aspects of my life.”

“I only started meditation under a month ago and it has truly deepened, not only my prayer life, but my relationship with myself too.”

“I signed up to another group but it does not provide the level of teaching I have found here. The teachings fill me with awe, inspiration and strength and help me feel held by God and the community.”

"I was feeling pretty alone and depleted before I arrived today. Being with others in this space means a great deal. I noticed the depth of compassion I felt for/with others in the ‘room’ after meditation had finished”.

“I am calmer in my workplace with my students, colleagues, friends and family. I am also more able to see where I am not at peace - and take action to rectify my behaviour and attitude”.

“I have a growing appreciation of the community - which was unexpected as meditation is otherwise a solitary practice.”

"I was a bit anxious as I thought meditation was Buddhist or New Age - partly through ignorance. I was delighted to come across The School of Contemplative Life on Instagram. Everything fell into place.”

“I have finally found a spiritual home within my belief structure.”

A bit about The School of Contemplative Life

The purpose of The School of Contemplative Life is to teach meditation as a simple path to peace, community and oneness. Our vision is to help people establish peace in themselves and become places of peace in the world.

Chris Whittington is the Founder of The School of Contemplative Life. Chris was introduced to contemplative practice during several years of formation when he lived at the Benedictine monastery of Prinknash Abbey. His’ monastic teachers, including Sylvester Houedard OSB, 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 Dharamsala, India. Chris regularly delivers talks, workshops and retreats and has introduced meditation from the Christian wisdom tradition to thousands of people in the UK and abroad.

Words from Rev’d Dr. Rowan Williams, former Archbishop of Canterbury

“I am delighted that there is a concrete opportunity for developing this new initiative in seeking to open doors into Christian wisdom for those who may have little previous awareness of its resources. This will be a chance for people of all traditions to discover new openings for growth in contemplative maturity.”

Words from Martin Laird OSA, Author of Into the Silent Land

”The School of Contemplative Life will surely rate among the most significant responses to the spiritual longings of the people of this nation and abroad through its well thought out programme of retreats, guidance and other opportunities to assist the Christian community to the wellspring of silence and compassion flowing within. Quite simply, there is no other centre in this country dedicated to cultivating the human discovery of its groundless Ground, that eternal Mystery ever hidden with Christ in God.”

A reminder that you don't need to register each week. If you register once, we will add you to our 'reminder' email that is sent out each Tuesday with the Zoom link and passcode. In the event you don't wish to receive these emails, just change your communication preferences by clicking the link at the bottom of a email from us.