Retreat Description

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In a conversation with his disciples Jesus asked them: “who do you say that I am?” (Mtt.16:15) This is one of the most important questions every follower of the rabbi of Nazareth has to wrestle with in their lives. In this retreat-pilgrimage we will explore our own images of God in conversation with the Spanish mystics, scriptures, art and nature.

Segovia is one of the most exquisite mediaeval cities in Spain, boasting a magnificent Roman aqueduct, a beautiful gothic cathedral and an iconic castle. It has also been a centre of Carmelite spirituality, since John’s and Teresa’s day to the present. Many of its streets, alleyways, churches and monasteries were places of special significance for the two mystics, and as part of this pilgrimage we will walk together in their footsteps through cobbled streets and by the river side. The retreat-pilgrimage will included two guided walks in Segovia: a poetry walk along the river to the Roman aqueduct, and a historic city walk (including a guided visit to the Segovia cathedral fine arts museum, exploring images of Christ in art). From Segovia we will be able to visit Avila, an impressive mediaeval walled city. Avila was the centre of the Carmelite reforms initiated by Teresa and John in the 16th century. Our pilgrimage through the city will included visiting a number of sites of spiritual significance, including the monasteries of La Encarnación and San José, where Teresa of Avila lived and ministered most of her life, as well as the cathedral and city walls.

Hosted and facilitated by Daniel Muñoz and Guy Wynter, at the St. John of the Cross monastery in Segovia, the programme includes: daily morning and night prayer, teaching input from Daniel Muñoz and the brothers in the community, guided pilgrimage-walks in the cities of Segovia and Avila, personal free time to reflect and relax in the monastery gardens, and a closing Eucharist.