The Perfect Joy of Saint Francis

The Perfect Joy of Saint Francis 

- A weekend Silent Retreat - 

Come join Anthony Williams OFS at Sister Eveleen House for a weekend silent retreat based on the stories of Saint Francis. Hear how Francis related to the animals, the experience of his first follower and what constituted perfect joy. The retreat will include a regular rhythm of contemplative prayer, shared meals, teachings on St Francis, as well as time for personal prayer and reflection. Spaces are limited so book early to avoid missing out. 

If you'd like to attend but the cost is prohibitive, please get in touch as we may be able to assist you.

 About the facilitator:  Anthony Williams is a long-time professed member of the Catholic Third Order of St Francis (Ordo Franciscanus Saecularis). Having been professed in 2005, he presently serves as the National Formator for the New Zealand Fraternities. He believes that spirituality is innate and when you search for a spiritual practice, you will know without any uncertainty when you have found your particular one. That is what happened when he came across St Francis. Anthony lived and worked at the Cistercian Monastery in Kopua, Hawkes Bay, for a period of 6 years where he experienced a life of contemplation, silence, liturgy, and community. Anthony obtained a Diploma in Religious Studies and Spirituality from the Diocese of Christchurch in 1990 and has since compiled many documents on St Francis and Franciscanism that have been distributed widely and used by the New Zealand Fraternities. He is now semi-retired and lives in Christchurch.