The Diocese of Bristol encourages all those in Christian ministry to support their ministries through retreats. Retreats can vary hugely, both in what they offer and in what the individual is looking for.
A retreat should be regarded as part of your development as a minister of the Church and not as leave, and should be supported by your parish. We encourage you to speak to your churchwardens and PCC about covering or contributing to the cost. General annual retreat costs are not funded by the Diocese and are not part of your CMD.
Please do speak to the Mission & Ministry Support Team or the Spirituality Advisors if you would like any help.
A very useful resource in helping you think about a retreat is The Retreat Association website. The Retreat Association is a national Christian organisation set up to help people find ways of exploring and deepening their journey with God through spirituality and prayer.
Visit their website: www.retreats.org.uk
We can recommend the following retreat spaces:
Elsie Briggs House of Prayer, Bristol
The Sheldon Centre, Dunsford, Exeter
The Ammerdown Centre, Radstock, Somerset
Abbey House, Glastonbury
Legge House, Wroughton, Swindon
Llangasty Retreat House