Individually Guided Retreat in the Ignatian Tradition

The Monastery of Our Lady of Hyning invites guests to take time apart from the busyness of daily life for an Individually Guided Retreat in the Ignatian tradition, running from Friday 24th April to Sunday 3rd May 2026 (8 days) or Saturday 25th April to Saturday 2nd May 2026 (6 days).

These retreats offer the opportunity for a personal encounter and deepening relationship with God, supported by daily meetings with an experienced spiritual director trained in the Ignatian tradition. The week will be spent in silence, prayer, and reflection on Scripture, with the option to join the Bernardine Cistercian Sisters for Mass and the Divine Office.

Three guest directors will accompany retreatants:

• Linda Mary Edwards, retired Anglican priest and Jungian analyst

• Ginny Newsham, Ignatian spiritual director based in South Cumbria

• Donna Worthington, experienced retreat giver and regular retreat leader at Hyning

Accommodation is in comfortable single en-suite rooms, with access to lounges, a library, an art studio, and tranquil gardens set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty near Carnforth.

Suggested donation:

• 8-day retreat (9 nights): £750

• 6-day retreat (7 nights): £620
  (£20 reduction for bookings before Christmas)

Places are limited to 12.

For further information and enrollment, contact Sr Mary Bernard at hyningbookings@yahoo.co.uk or call 01524 732684.

Click here to view the full flyer.

For Sale: Detached Residence in Birmingham

A detached residence is available for sale in Birmingham. The property includes three reception rooms, a chapel, and eight bedrooms (one located on the ground floor), along with ample storage. A stair lift is also installed.

Set back from the road, directly opposite the Catholic Church, the house features a large driveway providing generous off-road parking. To the rear, there is a south-facing garden with both patio and lawn areas.

Ideally positioned for local amenities, the property benefits from excellent public transport links, with M6 Junction 7 just minutes away.

For more information, or to be put in touch with the relevant contact, please email communications@corew.org.

New RLSS Safeguarding Training for Elderly Members of Religious Life

The Religious Life Safeguarding Service (RLSS) is delighted to announce a collection of new safeguarding training modules for the care and protection of elderly members of Religious Life Groups (RLGs). These courses have been generously sponsored by the Porticus Foundation and developed in close collaboration with the Conference of Religious (CoR).

This project has been created to strengthen the support available to religious in England and Wales, ensuring that those in later life are safeguarded with dignity, compassion, and best practice.

Since the first course was launched in March, uptake has been encouraging:

• Over 200 participants have attended Communicating and Supporting those with Dementia.

• The Safe Recruitment course launched in July and has already had 37 attendees.

• In September, the much-anticipated Safeguarding the Elderly Needing Care session was fully booked with 20 participants.

• In October, the series will expand further with the launch of Understanding Care Needs Assessments.

Over the coming months, RLSS will continue to roll out these tailored training opportunities, focusing on practical skills, awareness, and the unique needs of elderly members in religious life. These sessions aim to equip participants with the knowledge and confidence to recognise risks, respond appropriately, and create environments where safety and wellbeing remain at the heart of community life.

Upcoming Courses

Safeguarding the Elderly Needing Care
Tailored for religious members, lay staff, and volunteers who care for elderly adults. Includes scenario-based discussions and case studies to build confidence in recognising, responding to, and reporting safeguarding concerns.
Dates (via Zoom):

• Monday 20 October, 10:00–12:00

• Tuesday 4 November, 10:00–12:00

• Thursday 11 December, 14:30–16:30

Understanding Care Needs Assessments
An introductory overview of Care Needs Assessments carried out by Social Care Practitioners. Covers legal principles, eligibility, care planning, referrals, and decision-making where mental capacity is a concern. Useful for anyone supporting or living with an adult whose needs may require assessment.
Dates:

• Thursday 23 October, 14:00–15:30

• Thursday 11 December, 10:00–11:30

Caring with Confidence: Communicating and Supporting those with Dementia
Explores how dementia affects communication and behaviour, offering practical strategies for positive interaction and managing distressing behaviours.
Dates:

• Wednesday 29 October, 10:00–11:30

• Tuesday 11 November, 13:30–15:00

• Monday 15 December, 10:00–12:00

Safe Recruitment
Designed to support those responsible for hiring staff and volunteers. Covers best practice at every stage of the process to ensure safe, responsible, and transparent recruitment, creating a culture of vigilance and accountability.
Dates:

• Thursday 2 October, 15:00–17:00

• Tuesday 25 November, 14:00–16:00

• Monday 1 December, 10:00–12:00

For further details, to book a place, or to discuss RLSS delivering a session specifically for your RLG, please email training@religioussafeguarding.org

Call for Papers: the Centre for Catholic Studies third Lived Catholicism Online Conference

The third Lived Catholicism Conference will take place online on 2–3 December 2025, exploring the theme: “The Church’s ordinary way: synodality, possibilities and tensions.” Building on the conversations of the first two conferences, this year’s gathering will invite papers and presentations from across disciplines and contexts worldwide, with a particular focus on lived experiences of synodality and its challenges and opportunities.

See full Call for Papers details below.

If you wish to propose a 15 minute paper or a 5 minute presentation, please complete the form here by 1st October. The programme will be confirmed by mid October.

Catholic Missionary Union Marks 25 Years with Anniversary Mass and Celebration Lunch

The Catholic Missionary Union (CMU) will celebrate its 25th anniversary with a special Mass followed by an International Celebration Lunch on Sunday 26th October 2025 at 12 noon. The Mass will take place at Our Lady of the Rosary Church, 364 Brixton Road, London SW9 0TH, bringing together missionaries, clergy, religious, and lay people to give thanks for a quarter-century of promoting mission and sharing the joy of the Gospel.

Upcoming JPIC Conferences – 2025 & 2026

JPIC (Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation) has announced two conferences taking place in 2025 and 2026. The first, JPIC Linking Day: “Changing Futures – Transforming Global Finance for Development”, will take place on Saturday 11th October 2025 at the FCJ Spirituality Centre, London (with the option to join online). Speakers from CAFOD and Results UK will address the urgent need for economic transformation in pursuit of global justice.

Looking further ahead, the JPIC-Links Annual Conference is scheduled for 8th–10th May 2026 at Wistaston Hall Retreat Centre in Crewe, led by environmentalist and author Mary Colwell. This gathering, also available both in person and on Zoom, will focus on an environmental theme.

Second Edition of a Short Renewal Program for Religious - June 2026

Following the success of the first Renewal Program, a second edition will take place in Steyl, Netherlands, from 15–29 June 2026. This 14-day program combines a 6-day workshop with a 7-day contemplative retreat, focusing on transformation, healing, vulnerability, culture, and self-awareness. Through silence, prayer, and intercultural community living, participants are invited to deepen their connection with God, themselves, and others while discerning their role in mission today.

Growing Old Gracefully – Online Reflections for Later Life

Growing Old Gracefully, based in the Diocese of Leeds, offers resources and encouragement for those navigating the later stages of life. Their recent series of beautifully crafted online reflections, led by Paula Shanks and Fr Donal Lacey, explore themes such as hope and other aspects of living well in older age.

Each reflection weaves together psalms, poetry, music, and time for stillness, creating a gentle space for prayer and contemplation. While aimed at older Catholics, these resources are open to all and can be a valuable source of inspiration for individuals and communities alike.

You can watch the recordings on their YouTube channel here: Growing Old Gracefully – YouTube

For more information about their work and upcoming activities, visit the Growing Old Gracefully website

Book Discount & Global Sisters Report Feature – Becoming Apostolic: Conversations with Older RC Sisters

Dr Catherine Sexton’s insightful book, Becoming Apostolic: Conversations with Older Roman Catholic Sisters, is currently available at a 40% discount through Brill Publishers’ summer sale. The book, which has already sparked much interest among religious, explores how sisters experience their apostolic vocation in later life – a topic that resonates with many.

The discounted price is just over £60 and is available until 31st August 2025 via the Brill website.
Use the discount code DGBSUMMER25 at checkout:
👉 Visit Brill's Website

In addition, Sr Joyce Meyer PBVM (Hilton Foundation) recently wrote a thoughtful blog piece on Dr Sexton’s book for the Global Sisters Report. It highlights the significance of the work and the relevance of the themes explored, particularly around how the term "diminishment" is rejected by sisters, and how a reframing of apostolic life in later years can be both theological and life-giving.

👉 Read the Global Sisters Report blog

We hope these resources will be of interest and support for reflection within your community.

NRVP Conference 2025 – Registration Now Open

The National Religious Vocations Personnel (NRVP) is delighted to announce its 2025 Conference, taking place on Saturday 1st November from 9:00am to 4:00pm at the Galleon Suite, Royal National Hotel, 38-51 Bedford Way, London – Euston WC1H 0DG.

This year’s theme is “Following Jesus in a VUCA World”, and the keynote speaker will be Gonzalo Fernández Sanz CMF, offering valuable insight and inspiration for all involved in vocation ministry.

The cost of the conference is £70. Places are limited and early booking is encouraged.

Click here to download the registration form. Please complete and return it by 10th October 2025 to secure a place.

CoR Gathers Members and Colleagues to Oppose Assisted Dying Bill

CoR members and colleagues meet via Zoom to discuss opposition to the Assisted Dying Bill

Following the Conference of Religious England and Wales (CoR) AGM 2025, where over 70 leaders of religious congregations gathered and expressed a united stance against the Assisted Dying Bill, members have continued to come together in shared discernment and solidarity.

Today, CoR members met for an online forum to continue the conversation around this pressing issue. In a spirit of inclusivity and collaboration, the meeting was also open to lay colleagues. The invitation was extended to members, those they live and work with, and their wider networks, recognising that the Assisted Dying Bill, if passed, would have significant implications not only for Religious but also for those they work with and care for. 

Coming together in this way offered a valuable space to share concerns, reflect on developments, and explore how religious and lay partners can use their collective voice most effectively in the public arena.

The forum allowed participants to deepen their understanding of the current legislative context and to discuss practical ways to advocate for a culture that upholds the dignity and value of life at every stage. It also provided an opportunity to strengthen bonds between congregations supporting one another in prayer, action, and public witness.

This ongoing engagement reflects the commitment of CoR members and their colleagues to standing together on matters of moral and social concern. As the national conversation around assisted dying continues, the voices of religious women and men—and their lay partners—remain united in affirming life and compassionate care over legislative change.

Looking ahead, congregations are continuing to write to their MPs and to raise awareness within their communities. Many also plan to attend a peaceful protest in London on 20th June, organised by Christian Concern. Further details are available on the CoR website. Recognising that not everyone will be able to travel to the capital, others are encouraged to take a stand wherever they are in the country, through prayer, local witness, or symbolic acts of solidarity at the same time as the London event.

CoR will continue to facilitate opportunities for members and their colleagues to meet, reflect, and act together on this and other critical issues. The regular online Care Forum, being held on 25th June 2025, will offer a follow-up opportunity to consider the outcome of the debate and potential vote in Parliament on 20th June.

Explore Upcoming Events at the FCJ Centre for Spirituality and EcoJustice

The FCJ Centre in Euston is offering a wide and inspiring programme of events this summer, both in person and online. From spiritual retreats and environmental reflection to community action and creative prayer, the programme invites individuals and groups to engage deeply with faith, justice, and creation.

Highlights include:

• Revisiting Laudato Si’ – Marking 10 years of this prophetic encyclical (7 June)

• Braiding Sweetgrass – An evening of reflection on our connection with the Earth (13 June)

• Refugee Week Vigil – A witness of prayer outside the Home Office (16 June)

• Online Evening Retreat – Exploring the “I Am” sayings of Jesus through poetry and image (26 June)

• Circle Dance & Prayer – A day of movement and meditation (19 July)

• Young Adult Network Walk – A chance to connect with others and nature (20 July)

• National Justice & Peace Network Conference – Attend all or part of this key gathering (25–27 July)

📩 The full list of events can be found in the FCJ Centre’s June 2025 newsletter:
👉 View the newsletter here

📰 To receive future updates directly from the FCJ Centre, sign up for their newsletter:
👉 Subscribe here

These events offer a rich opportunity to engage with themes of spirituality, community, and social justice. Do explore and share with anyone who might be interested.

Residential Property Sought for Religious Community

A religious congregation is currently seeking a residential property within London, nearby surrounding areas, or Brighton. The property should have a minimum of 6 rooms and be appropriate for community life.

If you are aware of any suitable properties or would like to discuss this further, please contact the Secretariat via communications@corew.org.

Conference of Religious AGM 2025: Religious Leaders Unite in Synodal Leadership and Oppose the Assisted Dying Bill

Over 80 leaders of religious congregations gathered last week in Northamptonshire for the 2025 Conference of Religious England and Wales (CoR) Annual General Meeting, held under the theme “Synodal Leadership – Forward Thinking – Outward Facing.” The two-day gathering featured keynote input from Sr Maria Cimperman RSCJ and included space for deep reflection, listening, and shared discernment.

Members explored priorities such as synodal leadership, increasing diversity, nurturing new leadership, and strengthening the collective voice of religious in the Church and wider society.

As part of the gathering, attendees expressed their united opposition to the Assisted Dying Bill, standing together in support of life and dignity at every stage, and exploring ways to respond collectively as people of faith.

The AGM concluded with a renewed commitment to synodality, inclusivity, and collaborative leadership—affirming the enduring value of religious life in service of Gospel witness and social justice.

Centre for Applied Carmelite Spirituality (CACS) Summer Summit and Summer school

Exploring the Spiritual Legacy of Saint Thérèse – Spirituality Summit 2025

The Carmelite Spirituality Summit returns in 2025 with a special two-day gathering on 11–12 July, marking the 100th anniversary of the canonisation of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux. Taking place at the peaceful Carmelite Priory in Oxford, with the option to attend online, this year’s theme focuses on Living in Hope: The Spirituality of Saint Thérèse.

The summit will feature renowned speakers, including Dr. Susan Muto, who will reflect on Thérèse’s enduring message of hope, and Fr. Vincent O’Hara, OCD, exploring her personal struggles with faith and how they resonate today.

Attendees will benefit from inspiring keynote talks, interactive workshops, and panel discussions, all designed to deepen understanding of Saint Thérèse’s “little way” and its relevance for modern spiritual seekers. Moments of shared reflection and prayer will also create space for personal growth and community connection.

Whether attending in person or online, participants will find the summit a rich opportunity for spiritual nourishment and renewal.

Event Details:

• Dates: 11–12 July 2025

• Location: Carmelite Priory, Boars Hill, Oxford OX1 5HB, UK / Online

• More Info & Registration: carmelite.uk.net

Deepen Your Spiritual Journey at the 2025 Summer School with Dr. Susan Muto

The Centre for Applied Carmelite Spirituality is pleased to announce its annual Summer School, featuring esteemed scholar Dr. Susan Muto. This enriching five-day seminar will take place from July 14 to 18, 2025, at the serene Carmelite Priory in Boars Hill, Oxford.​

Event Highlights:

• In-Depth Exploration of Teresian Spirituality: Delve into the teachings of St. Teresa of Ávila, the renowned Carmelite mystic and first female Doctor of the Church, focusing on her seminal work, The Way of Perfection.​

• Expert Guidance: Benefit from the insights of Dr. Susan Muto, Dean of the Epiphany Academy of Formative Spirituality and author of over forty books on Christian spirituality.​

• Comprehensive Programme: Engage in spiritual accompaniment, guided prayer, silence, and peaceful contemplation designed to nurture the whole person—body, mind, soul, and spirit.​

Moreover, attendees will have the unique opportunity to celebrate the Solemnity of Our Lady of Mount Carmel with the Carmelite Friars during their visit.​

Event Details:

• Dates: July 14–18, 2025​

• Location: Carmelite Priory, Boars Hill, Oxford OX1 5HB, UK​

• Registration: Secure your place by booking before June 1, 2025.​

For more information and to register, please visit: carmelite.uk.net

CoREW Welcomes the Election of Pope Leo XIV

Pope Leo XIV - Tiziana Fabi/AFP via Getty Images

The Conference of Religious England and Wales (CoREW) warmly welcomes the election of Pope Leo XIV. We believe his global experience will have a positive impact on his leadership of the Catholic Church in these difficult times.

He has witnessed first hand the struggles that our sisters and brothers are experiencing. We are confident he will be a voice and inspiration for all people.

We join in prayer for him as he continues the challenging task of enabling the Church to listen to the Spirit moving across the world and proclaim the Gospel in a way that speaks to our present age.

Seeking Accommodation for New Missional Community in London

The Missionary Sisters for Polish Migrants are looking to establish a new missional community in the Islington area of London. They are currently seeking accommodation for two Sisters, either in a flat or in a convent located in or near Islington, or within a 30-minute journey by Tube.

If you are able to assist or would like to find out more, please contact the CoR secretariat at 020 3255 1085 or communications@corew.org, and we will be happy to direct your enquiry to the appropriate contact.

Better Together Group

Douai Abbey

The Better Together group is open to anyone, lay or religious, who is involved in supporting Religious Communities caring for the sick and elderly, either within their communities or in their own nursing/care homes. The group is hosted on Zoom by Dr Karen Groves and Queenscourt Hospice, Southport. Most members are either part of religious communities or healthcare professionals who work alongside them. Once a year, the group meets in person for a couple of days.

In April, the group was blessed to be hosted by Douai Abbey (and by fine weather!). This year’s theme was The Heart of Healthcare, with speakers leading sessions on spiritual distress, cardiac health, listening skills, spiritual care for the frail in community, and the link between Catholic teaching and mutual support for well-being. For evening entertainment, the group watched the film Patch Adams. Members also joined the Douai Community for Mass and the Divine Office, and enjoyed the delicious food and other comforts of the Guest House. Particular thanks were given to Brother Christopher for hosting, to Fr Alex the Guest Master, to Brother Aidan for leading a walk, and to Fr Geoffrey for a wonderful tour of the archives.

Anyone interested in joining the group can email Lorna Chamberlain at education@queenscourt.org.uk. Those wishing to explore the group can attend a meeting to see if they would like to become regular members. Meetings take place at 8 am on a Thursday morning once a month, last exactly one hour, and cover different themes requested, and usually led, by members.

Douai Abbey

In Memoriam: His Holiness Pope Francis

It is with deep sorrow that the Conference of Religious in England and Wales joins the Church and the global Catholic community in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis.

Pope Francis's life was a profound witness to the Gospel, marked by a deep commitment to justice, peace, and the dignity of all people. His leadership, humility, and unwavering faith were an inspiration to countless religious and lay people around the world.

We give thanks for his life and ministry, and we hold him in our prayers with gratitude and love. May he know the fullness of God’s peace and the eternal embrace of Christ, whom he served so faithfully.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon him.
May he rest in peace. Amen.

Operation Noah CST Toolkit and Webinar Series

New Resource & Webinar Series: Catholic Social Teaching and Investing

Operation Noah is pleased to share a new toolkit, Catholic Social Teaching and Investing in Climate Solutions, a guide for Catholic organisations seeking to align their investments with CST. This practical resource supports responsible financial stewardship in the context of the climate crisis.

To explore this with other Catholic investors, join the lunchtime webinar series starting on Tuesday, 29th April 2025 at 1pm BST and learn how CST can inform impactful climate investments.

Download the toolkit and register for the webinars here: https://www.operationnoah.org/catholic-social-teaching-toolkit/