Peregrinatio – or ‘holy voyaging’- is a word that comes from the time of the Celtic missionary monks, who would set themselves adrift in a small boat, trusting to wind and tide to take them to the place of their becoming. We will follow in this adventurous tradition on this wilderness retreat led by Chris Goan in a deserted Hebridean island. The retreat, which includes poetry writing, offers real time out for recharging and refreshing artistic focus.
These beautiful places take us backwards in time, closer to the elements and into our own history. Wildlife encounters with some of our iconic species are common (otters, sea eagles, seals, dolphins, to name a few). Inevitably this means some exposure to wind and weather, as shelter and accommodation (apart from the odd cave) will be tents. We will cook on stoves or open fires.
A chartered boat will take us to our island. Exactly which island will depend slightly on the weather, but each venue we use has a rich tradition of ancient pilgrimage so we will always be in good company.
To spend time in such a place can be a deeply spiritual experience, and above all, the retreat offers an opportunity to make your own peregrinatio. To this end, we will seek to divide our time into purposeful silence (when we spend time on our own) and community (when we enjoy each other’s company and share stories). You may want to bring your sketchbook and paints as well. In the evenings, we will share the sanctity of the fireside.
Our retreat host Chris Goan is a writer and poet who has been running workshops and retreats for many years.
This weekend retreat includes:
- Return crossing by chartered boat
- Support from two retreat leaders
- Guided meditations
- Poetry writing sessions
- Detailed pre-travel information including kit list.
The departure and end location for the retreat is Easdale near Oban in Argyll.
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