First mixed retreat for members

Our first ever ‘Mixed Retreat’, attended by both Knights and Dames, took place from 14th - 17th November at Owlpen Manor in Gloucestershire. 

Thirty retreatants, including the Professed, Knights, Dames and Donats as well as candidates and some Companions, braved the torrential storms and flooded roads and descended on this historic house and beautiful estate owned by Sir Nicholas and Lady Mander, who extended their gracious hospitality to the group.  With accommodation in nine cottages spread across the estate, we gathered together in the Cyder Barn for delicious home cooked meals and gathered together in the Pole Barn for spiritual talks and prayer. 

Mgr John Armitage led the retreat with uplifting and reflective talks on the charism of the Order; the goal of perfection (to become the person we are called to be) in asking God ‘What do you want of me today?’; change and decay in the world and the constant presence of God; and belonging and duty (‘to serve because we are served, to love because we are loved’). 

Mass, Rosary, Stations etc. took place (by kind permission of the relevant Catholic and Anglican bishops, in the Church of the Holy Cross situated on the estate, with its largely Arts and Crafts interior, and the newly refurbished organ, played by Tom Acland, brought our Sunday singing alive.

This retreat, which we hope will become a yearly fixture, is intended to complement the annual Knights’ and Dames’ retreats, which take place each Lent.