Contemplative Writing Retreat

Have you always wanted to write a book or poem? Perhaps you’re halfway through a novel but can’t find the time or energy to finish it off. If spending a weekend writing in a beautiful seaside location sounds like your idea of heaven, then please read on. The theme of this retreat is Contemplative Creativity/Creative Contemplation. What does it mean to have a spirit-led approach to writing? And how might we incorporate our creative lives into a contemplative prayer practice? The retreat will be structured around daily meditation/contemplative prayer, dedicated time and space to write, and evenings spent reviewing the day’s work in a supportive environment. You don’t need any experience with either meditation or writing. All you need is an open mind and a project you’d like to work on.

Dates: 7pm Friday 22 January – 6pm Sunday 24 January.

Cost (including all meals):

$220 waged.

$132 unwaged (students, unemployed, retired)

Please note that rooms will be allocated on a first-in first-serve basis. So book in quick to secure the best rooms!

Location:

Sister Eveleen Retreat House, 6 Whitewash Head Road, Sumner, Christchurch.

About the host: Edward O’Connor has been a contemplative and writer all his life, he’s only just realised it. In 2019 he completed a Master’s Degree in Writing at the University of Canterbury, where he completed a screenplay, poems, short stories, and a series of narrative essays on contemplative Christianity. He is the Director of Sister Eveleen House where he runs contemplative prayer and meditation three times a day. His particular interest is how we can reanimate old forms of writing and spirituality for the modern world.

About the Sister Eveleen Retreat House: Sister Eveleen Retreat House (SERH) is nestled among the native trees on Scarborough Hill. It is owned by the Anglican Diocese but is run ecumenically. It was bequeathed to the church by Sister Eveleen who asked for it to be used as a 'house of spiritual help and prayer.' Please note that there is no parking on Whitewash Head Road. You will need to park down by the waterfront and walk to the house. Assistance can be provided if required.

Payment Details: You will be sent an invoice for the full cost of the retreat on registration. Payment is due 15 days on receipt of invoice.

Refund policy: We understand that sometimes plans need to change and that you may need to withdraw from the retreat. However, it makes things very difficult for us when people change their minds at the last minute. Before you sign up for this retreat, please note that retreatants will receive a refund if they pull-out more than 3 weeks before the retreat. If you pull out within 3 weeks of the retreat we will only provide a refund if we're someone else takes your place.  

If you have any questions or would like further information please contact Eddie: (ph) 022 563 6879 (e) sister.e.retreat@gmail.com