Over several days, participants took part in workshops on freeing the writer’s voice, discernment in writing, and experiential writing. Group sessions explored biblical passages, evening reflections encouraged them to consider how they had encountered God, and extended periods were dedicated to prayer or writing in the peaceful surroundings of St Beuno’s, overlooking the North Wales landscape.
Anne Booth, who has written extensively for children and adults, has shared her experience of the retreat in The Tablet. The full article is available to subscribers here.
Following the unexpected cancellation of a major book project, Anne initially felt uncertain about her writing and her calling. The retreat helped her gain perspective, focusing not on the commercial value of her work but on nurturing a deeper relationship with God through prayer, reflection, and creative practice. By the end, Anne had renewed confidence, a sense of inspiration for her writing and illustrating projects, and a motivation to respond to God’s call in everyday life, including engaging with her local community.
Phil Harrison SJ, Editor of The Way, who led the retreat, said:
“As part of our commitment to supporting Ignatian writing, we organised a retreat for writers over the summer, with the aim of helping them to express their experience of God, so that they might kindle the flame of faith of their readers."
Reflecting further on the retreat’s atmosphere and community, he added:
"The retreat brought together a community of writers, both professional and amateur, from a number of different walks of life, in the tranquil atmosphere of St Beuno's Retreat Centre in North Wales."
The next writers’ retreat will take place from Saturday 27 June to Thursday 2 July 2026, with further details to be made available on the St Beuno’s website.
About St Beuno’s Jesuit Spirituality Centre
Located in North Wales, St Beuno’s offers retreats, workshops, and spiritual guidance rooted in Jesuit tradition. Its serene setting provides a supportive environment for individuals seeking prayer, contemplation, and personal growth.
This retreat illustrates how Jesuit spirituality continues to inspire reflection, creativity, and community engagement. For more information on upcoming retreats at St Beuno’s, visit the website here.
