Play and Pray with Colour and Clay

Do you feel you may benefit from a spring break with a spiritual aspect?

Would you like to visit the tranquil setting of St Mary’s Convent, steeped in history and the last English residence of Catherine McAuley?

PLAY and PRAY with COLOUR and CLAY

A time to relax and discover the Gospel anew

A WEEKEND RETREAT
Friday 8th – Sunday 10th April 2011
led by Pat Callaghan and Morag Gardham
at The Mercy Centre, St Mary’s Convent, 98 Hunters Rd, Handsworth, Birmingham  B19 1EB

NO ARTISTIC SKILLS REQUIRED!

This retreat is an opportunity to hear Jesus’ invitation to come away for a while from the busyness of everyday life, to find refreshment in God’s presence and to be spiritually enriched in this beautiful historic building. There will be a balance of silence and speaking, of input and group work, personal prayer time and optional sharing groups.

The love of our creative God, as we know, speaks to us in many ways: through the people and world around us, in our own created and creative human nature, body, mind and spirit; through the gift of our senses and imagination as well as through God’s word in scripture.

Different pathways to prayer will be offered, inviting us to unwind and relax, reflect and pray through playing with colour and clay. No artistic skills are required. Bring comfortable clothing, a sense of humour and openness to the God of Surprises.

The retreat will consist of a balance of silence and speaking, of input and group work, personal prayer time and optional sharing groups. It will start with supper at 6.30 on the Friday evening and end with lunch on Sunday.

The cost of the retreat is £160 which includes full board and all materials. The date for the balance of the deposit is March 5th.

The Mercy Centre forms part of St Mary’s Convent, founded in 1841, and provides warm hospitality and a tranquil space within easy reach of Birmingham City Centre. The house, a little-known architectural gem designed by A.W. Pugin and now extensively refurbished, has 14 guest bedrooms, a large meeting room, 2 chapels, a garden and secure parking.