Retreat Description

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A journey through the letters of John of the Cross and Teresa of Avila, exploring practical lessons for loving and for living. In this retreat-pilgrimage we will reflect on the spiritual wisdom that has come to us through the extensive epistolary collection of these great Spanish mystics. A wisdom that is deeply rooted in God, yet very real about the challenges and twists and turns of life.

Teresa of Avila and John of the Cross navigated a complex world, immersed in profound power struggles and religious changes that transformed the spiritual and political landscape of Europe. They themselves were caught up in the intrigues and tactical manoeuvres of those who opposed their reforming movement within the Carmelite Order. Their epistles bear witness to the way they responded to such pressures and to their resilient character. Other letters are more intimate, and respond to questions raised by young novices, nuns and friars, or lay people of faith who enquired about the affairs of the soul. Their correspondence, in this respect, offers us a wonderful insight into the human side of Teresa and John: their relationships, their priorities, their hopes and fears.

Hosted and facilitated by Daniel Muñoz and Guy Wynter, at the Carmelite Priory in Ubeda, 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 Ubeda and Baeza, a guided visit to the St John of the Cross Museum in Ubeda, free time to reflect and relax in the monastery gardens, and a closing Eucharist at the St John of the Cross Basilica.