Uprising on Dorset Downs
Sleepy Dorset will wake to the sound of spiritual revolution when green activists descend on A Rocha UK partner Hilfield Friary for a weekend retreat this month.
From 20th-22nd May, they’ll learn how to transform people and planet from A Rocha UK Conservation Director Andy Lester, former Kew Gardens chief Sir Ghillian Prance and Brother Sam of the Society of St Francis. The three men will address the theme ‘Re-visioning the world – a radical look at what is shaping life today, and an opportunity to change the way we see the planet’.
CREATION VISION
The event is part of the programme, ‘Care for our Common Home’. That was the subtitle of Pope Francis’ encyclical letter which offered a vision for creation care, justice and a spirituality of gratitude and humility.
‘The retreat will be a chance to kick off your shoes, reconnect with nature and focus on God’s plans for the UK and wider world in the context of nature conservation,’ said Conservation Director Andy Lester.
‘Set just below the edge of the Dorset Downs, the weekend offers a great opportunity to view a rich variety of flora and fauna, guided by experts in identification and conservation,’ said Brother Sam. ‘We’ll reflect on “seeing the world aright” – essential to the radical transformation needed if we’re to live peaceably and wisely as part of God’s creation today.’
LIVE SENSITIVELY
Part of A Rocha UK’s Partners In Action network, Hilfield is home to a Franciscan community seeking to live sensitively towards the land. Set in 19 acres, Hilfield is part of the Anglican Society of St Francis. Accommodation is in single rooms with some twin rooms available. There is no fixed charge for the weekend, but participants are invited to make a donation of around £120.
Information can be found at www.hilfieldfriary.org.uk/2016-programme or by phoning 01300 341741. Day visitors for the Saturday are welcome. (Pictured are scenes of Hilfield life)