Armed Forces Retreat - Worth Abbey
14th-17th October 2024

The RAF Pastoral Advisory Group organised a retreat opportunity for Armed Forces and MOD Civil Service personnel which took place at the Benedictine monastery of Worth Abbey over the period 14 to 17 Oct 24.  Ten personnel, from a wide range of areas and backgrounds, attended and gave universal positive feedback.

The retreat programme allowed attendees to attend the Daily Office, spend time in quiet prayer and reflection, as well as be guided through some led sessions on prayer, and resilience.  There was also the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful West Sussex countryside during a group walk.

Army Chaplain, Padre John Power, and Retreat Chaplain, Fr Peter Williams OSB facilitated the led sessions which fostered a sense of stepping back from the day-today life; stepping into a place of prayer and reflection; and stepping forwards in personal spirituality.  

All the Armed Forces retreats aim to promote and foster spiritual and moral values from a Catholic perspective, thus contributing to professional and personal development, and thereby strengthening the moral component of military power.  

The next Armed Forces retreat takes place at Ampleforth Abbey, North Yorks over the period 11 to 14 Nov.  There are still a couple of places available.  Contact jeremy.wynne109@mod.gov.uk if interested.