EVENTS
The Kentigern School: The Way of Contemplation
Contemplation cannot be taught, but we can nurture the ways that open us to the experience. It is the fulfillment of the longing for the realisation of the ‘something other’, the Real, the Divine. It is to be con-templum ‘in the temple’ or
‘at one with the holy’. For the contemplative, the primary source of faith and action in the world is this unifying relationship.
The School was founded in 2018 as a joint initiative between the Foundation and the Carlisle. The name arose from that of our local saint Kentigern, also known as Mungo after an earlier publication about his life and the development of a pilgrimage around the Northern Fells (see Books. Kentigern: a Life and a Lakeland Pilgrimage)
Our trustee and spiritual director, Stephen, is the principal founder and facilitator. The School has emerged as a dispersed community of contemplatives who organise their own meetings (see www.kentigern.org.uk)
Each year a School is organised for up to 12 participants and lasts for about 6 months, to include 2 residential weekends. For up-to-date information on the next School and how to apply, please refer to the Kentigern website.
Much has been theorised about contemplation, but the programme on offer is not a theoretical or theological ‘course’; it is an experiential encounter.
While rooted in the wisdom teachings of Jesus, the master contemplative, the approach is inclusive, embracing truths across traditions and emphasising unity rather than diQerences You do not have to be a Christian to join in nor will the
programme try to make you one. Join us if you have faith. Join us if you have none. You will not be required to accept any doctrines, dogmas or theologies. All that is required is that you are feeling that pull or calling for “something more” and that you are willing to participate fully with an open and heart and mind to discover what is true for yourself.
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Venue: The Blencathra Centre, Threlkeld, Keswick
Located high on the side of Blencathra, the Centre is in the midst of Kentigern territory with magnificent views across the Lakeland Fells. It is a "old studies centre principally used for school groups during the week and has a strong eco-
friendly ethic with freshly sourced and prepared meals. Its work is largely outward bound; our work is 'inward bound.'
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At the end of our time together, there will be an opportunity for those who wish to continue support for each other and service along the Way as part of the Kentigern Community.
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If you feel it is right for you and/or would like to know more, then please contact admin@sacredspace.org.uk
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Other events, retreats, conferences and workshops
Currently our emphasis on the personal retreat opportunities at our Cumbrian sites. This keeps us busy enough.
We have a long history of holding retreats, participating in conferences and other educational events. To obtain recent information it would be best to sign up to our newsletter.