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Harry’s renewal journey – from losing direction in the military, to hitting rock bottom, to rediscovering hope through prayer, pilgrimage and an unforgettable meeting with Pope Leo – reminds us that renewal isn’t a single moment, but something that keeps returning throughout life’s twists, turns and challenges. Harry Clark, a former Army Engineer and winner of BBC’s The Traitors, has become a rising broadcaster – notably starring in Pilgrimage: The road through the Alps and Harry Clark goes to Rome.  Send us Fan Mail Support the show www.monasticretreats.co.uk

Marie Aitken reflects on why rest and retreat matter — drawing on Jesus' own example of withdrawing to pray (Luke 5:16) and his invitation in Matthew 11:28: "Come to me, all who are weary and carry heavy burdens... I will give you rest." Whether you are experienced in, or new to retreats, there are hundreds of places of retreat across the UK, from abbeys and monasteries, to dedicated retreat centres. Many have led quiet days and retreat programmes, community or rhythms of prayer to engage with - or a space to just be.  Send us Fan Mail Support the show www.monasticretreats.co.uk

In this reflection, Ruth draws inspiration from the deep, refreshing well of the Psalms – and how they can help fill our cups through simple everyday retreat practice. Ruth is Director of Renew Wellbeing, a charity working with churches to offer quiet shared spaces where it’s ok to not be ok.  Send us Fan Mail Support the show www.monasticretreats.co.uk

Bishop Rod Green of Stepney shares this reflection on Elijah’s encounter with the God in 1 Kings 19 – and where we might find “sheer silence” in the face of distraction and disruption. Send us Fan Mail Support the show www.monasticretreats.co.uk

In a world of constant noise, rising costs and technology moving faster than many of us can process, it’s easy to lose track of truth and reality. In this context, Muyiwa Olarewaju reflects on what it means to renew ourselves and how scripture invites us to do just that.  Muyiwa is an award-winning singer, songwriter and broadcaster.  Send us Fan Mail Support the show www.monasticretreats.co.uk

National Retreat Week – renew:all (19th -26th Sept 2026) is a call to be intentional about finding and setting time for retreat – alone or with others – whether during the week itself or at any time throughout the year.  In today's episode Pamela Brown-Peterside shares a reflection exploring how fear can hold us back from the life God desires for us — and how pausing, noticing, and naming our fears can begin to loosen their grip. Through gentle prompts and prayer, Pamela Brown-Peterside invites us to slow down, pay attention to what’s stirring within, and bring our fears into God’s presence. Pamela is an author and spiritual director with a background in public health. For more information about national retreat week visit https://www.renewall.org.uk/ Send us Fan Mail Support the show www.monasticretreats.co.uk

In today's episode Fr Simon shares on how our bodies respond in times of stress before offering practical ways to help us deal with it.  Send us Fan Mail Support the show www.monasticretreats.co.uk

Fr Simon Sleeman continues this series of talks by exploring prayer. Send us Fan Mail Support the show www.monasticretreats.co.uk

In today's episode Fr Simon shares on the theme of humour and its importance in our lives. Just a reminder these recordings were originally made during the COVID 19 pandemic but their message is still as important today as it was then.  Send us Fan Mail Support the show www.monasticretreats.co.uk

In this episode Fr Simon shares on the theme of mindfulness.  Send us Fan Mail Support the show www.monasticretreats.co.uk

Fr Simon shares today on the restorative power of nature focussing on clouds. In the talk he references a two hour video of clouds passing by, you can access that video here.  Send us Fan Mail Support the show www.monasticretreats.co.uk

In the third in our series from Fr Simon he shares on the challenge to not grow familiar with what surrounds us and to be open to see things with fresh appreciation.  Send us Fan Mail Support the show www.monasticretreats.co.uk

In the second in this series from Fr Simon Sleeman, Simon shares his daily morning practice. If you have ever wondered how a monk starts their day listen to this episode and find out.  Send us Fan Mail Support the show www.monasticretreats.co.uk

Fr Simon Sleeman OSB from Glenstal Abbey in Co Limerick Ireland talks about his experiences and recovery from depression. Send us Fan Mail Support the show www.monasticretreats.co.uk

In this episode Chris Whittington, from the School of Contemplative Life continues to share on the theme of Silence. Silence as our natural habitat. For more information on The School of Contemplative life you can visit their website here.  Send us Fan Mail Support the show www.monasticretreats.co.uk