PDF version - up to Feb 2016 - The Othona Community at Burton

Programme of Events Feb 2015 to Feb 2016
ˆ Retreats
ˆ Workshops
ˆ Family holidays
ˆ A welcoming community
ˆ A spirituality open to all faiths and none
“Othona is such a
precious and crucial
part of our family life.
I’ve had the joy of
watching my children
flourish and grow here.”
Rooted in the Christian heritage...
open to the widening future
this centre is one of two operated by the Othona Community
A PLACE
West Dorset is rich in history, wildlife and culture – a joy to visit, but not ruined
by tourism. We occupy 7 acres of gloriously untamed grounds on an unspoilt
stretch of coast.
In Community House you’ll find simple but comfortable accommodation, with
wide sea views and a homely log fire. The beach is 15 minutes walk away through
National Trust meadows.
“A balance
of solitude,
companionship
and beauty –
grounded
once more!”
A PLACE TO BE
Othona is a great place just to be. Leave the stress of your daily life behind.
Let go of a few responsibilities. Relax in surroundings that lift your spirit.
Wake each morning to birdsong from the woods that surround us. Fall asleep
to the rhythm of waves on the beach below.
A PLACE TO BE REAL
“It’s different from anywhere else…
the vibe, the feeling in the air,
the sense of peace emanating
from the walls.”
Mission Statement: Othona is an open and inclusive Community rooted in the Christian
tradition and drawing on a wealth of other inspirations. We welcome people of all ages,
abilities, backgrounds and beliefs to our two centres on the quiet coasts of Essex and
Dorset. Through sharing in a daily rhythm of work, learning, worship and play, we seek
personal renewal and glimpses of the sacred. In community we explore the relationship
between faith and life and encourage one another in caring for the world and its people.
Founded in 1946, Othona is registered charity number 1154204.
In this beautiful setting many people find a surprising quality of acceptance.
When image and status don’t matter, we’re free to be who we are, without judgment
or expectations. Free to look within and recognise, perhaps, parts of ourselves that
have lain dormant.
A PLACE TO BE REAL TOGETHER
So you relax. The real you finds breathing space. And maybe you will also discover
a rare depth of connection with other people.
Othona’s a place with lots of unforced laughter, easy sharing of each other’s
life stories, and not a few unembarrassed tears. This is a taste of community –
something so often missing in today’s world. (All spiritual traditions recognise
this. One Christian name for it is the fellowship of the Holy Spirit.)
Our hope is that this experience carries over as a practical blessing in your
everyday life.
For some Frequently Asked Questions see page 21
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Othona Gold – Celebrating 50 Years in Dorset
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much to celebrate… and look forward to. Join us in July if you can, for our
anniversary festival.
The Othona Community was founded in 1946 by Norman Motley – as a
response after the Second World War – to explore what makes for peace
and reconciliation. From the start, we aimed to lower the barriers between
people of different backgrounds and beliefs. Today Othona’s Members
and Friends are an open, inclusive network of people spread all over Britain
and beyond.
How we came to Dorset
([ÄYZ[6[OVUH^VYRLKTHPUS`[OYV\NOZ\TTLYJHTWZPU,ZZL_I\[I`[OL
1960s was looking for a second base. In July 1965 that dream came true.
A group of brave pioneers opened the West Dorset centre, near Burton
Bradstock village and overlooking Lyme Bay. Facilities were extremely basic,
but the spirit of community was strong.
Over the decades since, we have developed a year-round programme of
retreats, holidays and courses. The core community who live here make
possible a range of residential opportunities for all comers. Othona, while
having Christian roots, involves and welcomes people of any faith or none.
Whatever the event or activity at Othona, our underlying aim is to build
community, “a place for meeting honestly and living generously, a place
to be real together”.
What was here before 1965?
In the 1920s a remarkable woman named Adela Curtis founded a small
residential community on the Dorset coast. She and her followers were
known to the locals as The White Ladies (from the voluminous handmade
white habits they wore).
Their lifestyle was one of extreme simplicity, with no electricity and only
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When not growing vegetables or weaving cloth, they devoted themselves
to forms of contemplative prayer and meditation.
The life they chose and some of their beliefs may seem strange to us now.
But Miss Curtis was a pioneering teacher of meditation and some of her
writing about the simple life (“Littleness” is her preferred term) speaks
powerfully across the years:
“As soon as the soul has escaped by way of Littleness from the thraldom of
false values, it feels a great buoyancy and good humour which causes it to
bubble over into laughter at itself for ever having worn a millstone in mistake
for a necklace.”
In 1937 the Community of Christian Contemplatives (the White Ladies)
dedicated their newly built chapel. In those days it had no separate library
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must have lifted the white ladies’ spirits then as they still do for us today.
The Second World War brought problems for Adela Curtis and her sisters
(it was an all-female community). The army took over the main house, to
help protect the coast from invasion. By the time the soldiers left, the little
community of ageing women was in terminal decline. The last of them, Miss
Curtis herself, died here in 1960. In 1965 Othona received the house and
grounds – by then in danger of becoming a ruin within a jungle – as a gift.
An Experience of Living Community
We welcome people of all faiths and outlooks. Only together can we
hope to build a sustainable future of justice and peace. Down-to-earth and
open-hearted, Othona has its roots in the inclusive Christian tradition, and
now draws on a wealth of other inspirations too.
Othona West Dorset is a centre dedicated to human wellbeing – of body,
mind and spirit. We have found that individual wellbeing grows through an
experience of community with others and of connection with Spirit/God.
Charging Policy
Our standard rate reflects what Othona needs to cover costs as a not-for-profit charity.
The concessionary rate is freely available for all who need it (up to 21 days per person per
year). It is not tied to eligibility for any state benefit. We leave it to your discretion whether
you need a concession. If even the concessionary rate is a problem for you, we have a
bursary fund. Applications for bursaries – to the warden please – are treated in confidence.
We don’t quote concessionary rates for children, but are happy to consider a reduction
if your family needs it. Please contact us to discuss. This year we have reduced all our
prices for children.
If you arrive late or leave early we usually charge for the full event (unless explicitly agreed
otherwise in advance).
2
Visit www.othona-west-dorset.co.uk for more about each event and Othona
3
Quiet Week
7-13 Feb (Sat-Fri a.m.)
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not a completely silent retreat, but offers a depth of tranquillity, a quality of presence
which will rest parts of you that need rest… and awaken parts that have dozed
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the atmosphere of contemplation and offering each morning a brief selection of
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mystical spirituality, and of mythology. Her intuitive approach to the spiritual health of
individuals and groups is informed by many different religious and cultural traditions.
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and home-cooked food. Some meals in silence. A cosy library. A peaceful chapel.
A long empty beach and good walking country. An accepting, creative community.
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(See also 12-18 Sept.)
£317 (CONC. £242)
Roll Up Your Sleeves
2-8 Mar (Mon-Sun p.m.)
If you’ve never tried one of these weeks you may not realise how special they are.
Ideal for practical people who like to lend a hand and do something worthwhile.
Sharing umpteen jobs round the house and grounds we all get a real sense of
achievement and camaraderie – working hard (up to 6 hours a day) but playing hard
too with plenty of laughs and diversions. We aim to vary the jobs to suit all abilities.
£75 (NO CONCESSIONS)
A Day of Mindfulness to Relieve Stress
17 Mar (Tues 10.00-4.00)
This one day course will show you how to disengage the automatic pilot that
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is to be able to pay full attention to the present, on purpose and without judging.
This enables you to live in the present moment, increasing awareness of bodily
sensations, thoughts and feelings. Then you can manage them more effectively with
a greater ability to relax and deal with stress.
Sue Howse is an experienced psychotherapist and mindfulness teacher who
regularly leads courses at Othona.
www.susanhowse.co.uk
(See also 13-16 April and 22-25 June)
£39
“A very special time, special moments with people in love with life and generous in
their sharing.”
4
Visit www.othona-west-dorset.co.uk for day events and non-residential participation
Introduction to the Enneagram
19-22 Mar (Thurs-Sun p.m.)
The Enneagram is a dynamic, ancient, spiritual and psychological model of humanity.
It describes nine basic personality types, how they vary and interact, and the direct
link between the psychological and spiritual aspects of each. Giving extraordinarily
accurate insight into our day-to-day behaviour, preoccupations, strengths and
weaknesses and those of our friends, colleagues and lovers, it also indicates each
person’s most fruitful approach to personal growth.
The outer study of the system concerns how the nine types think and feel, how
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understanding of ourselves and our relationships; but the real power of the system
lies in the inner study, which joins insight into personality with the practices of sacred
tradition.
On this introductory workshop you will discover the hidden emotional and mental
concerns of each type, and learn some of the patterns of behaviour and interaction
created by these unconscious habits of perception. Recognise your own type and
those of people you know, understanding how both security and stress ‘change’ your
personality. Learn to improve relationships of all kinds and start to discover how to
use your ‘negative’ patterns to fuel growth.
With Karen Webb, author of “Principles of the Enneagram”, and probably the UK’s
foremost Enneagram teacher. (See also 15-18 Oct.)
www.theenneagram.co.uk
£241 (CONC. £203)
Poetry and Hope
27-29 Mar (Fri-Sun p.m.)
Othona welcomes back Graham Fawcett, poetry lecturer, broadcaster, writer and
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feathers that perches in the soul”, wrote Emily Dickinson, catching the sense we
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moments when we feel vulnerable and in need of the ability to rise on wings out of
where we are.
Of course, hope can bring with it other precarious feelings too, like longing, and so
there is the risk of disappointment, something the Canadian novelist David Plante
was washing his hands of when, on being asked what he was planning to give up at
New Year, he said, ‘hope’. Besides, longing, like hope, may be misguided: T S Eliot
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hope, For hope would be hope for the wrong thing”.
Join us for a retreat designed to create plenty of space and time around some of the
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in poems from any time in history and anywhere in the world.
£183 (CONC. £158)
5
Easter – Walking Life’s Labyrinth
2-6 Apr (Thurs-Mon a.m.)
Walking a labyrinth is an ancient spiritual practice that in recent years has undergone
a contemporary revival. Labyrinths are springing up in schools, universities,
hospices, parks, prisons, churches and of course retreat centres. This long weekend
we have the opportunity to explore what the labyrinth might have to say to us –
not least about the universal Easter themes of death and letting go, of facing the
unknown and trying to trust, of opening to new life and embracing the journey. We
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we have found in word, image or resolution.
Nickie Fidgin is a skilled facilitator of labyrinth experiences who has brought them to
contexts as varied as a primary school and Salisbury Cathedral. She is also a singing
teacher, so we can look forward to making music together as an extra delight. Add to
that some Othona necessities – such as homemade hot cross buns and egg-rolling
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in Dorset. This approach to the Christian festival can be a deepening experience for
people of any faith or none.
£235 (CONC. £184)
Open Space with Tai Chi
7-12 Apr (Tues-Sun p.m.)
Open Space means a classic Othona relaxation week – spend time in community
but with a minimal programme so you can pursue your own priorities (walking,
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exercises with David Talbot@V\KVU»[ULLKHU`WYL]PV\ZL_WLYPLUJL[VILULÄ[MYVT
these graceful and mindful movement practices. David’s teaching emphasises the
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More about tai chi: www.taichiunion.com/what.php
£266 (CONC. £204)
Mindfulness, Self-compassion and Ageing
13-16 Apr (Mon-Thurs p.m.)
Mindfulness is about awareness and acceptance of moment-to-moment
experiences, whether pleasant or unpleasant. So much of the time we live our
lives on “auto-pilot”, lost in the past or worrying about the future. Mindfulness
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self-compassion practices you can develop a greater awareness and kindness
to yourself. This retreat will give you an introduction to Mindfulness and Selfcompassion meditation practices, as well as opportunities to take part in Tai Chi,
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previous experience is required.
Coaches Retreat
17-19 Apr (Fri-Sun p.m.)
Calling all executive coaches, life coaches, career coaches, relationship coaches –
whatever you coach, this retreat is for you. Spend a weekend getting away from the
business – no selling, no clients, no CPD, just the chance to relax in the company
of other coaches. You could: walk to Chesil Beach, (or the hills or the tea shop); talk
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art room; meditate in the chapel; complete a jigsaw or play board games; visit the
galleries and gardens of Abbotsbury; or just do nothing but unwind in gorgeous West
Dorset. There will be communal meals of home-prepared local food and optional
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coordinated by Catherine Billam.
About Catherine: www.businesschangeleadership.com
£130 (£90 FOR SECOND PERSON SHARING BEDROOM AND BOOKED TOGETHER)
STOPOVER DEAL: STAY TO MONDAY MORNING FOR JUST £30 EXTRA
Springwatching
22-26 Apr (Wed-Sun p.m.)
We offer another feast of wildlife delight in Dorset, in one of its most verdant Spring
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ILLZYHYLZWPKLYZI\[[LYÅPLZHUK[OLVJJHZPVUHS]PZP[PUNKLLY>L»SSHSZV]LU[\YLH
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be convened by core member Juliet Hilary, together with Christopher Keeling and
Stefani Bresciani, brimming full of enthusiasm and love of what we can see and hear
when we take time to look and listen. Juliet, Chris & Stef met on a Conservation
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to witness the dawn chorus with Othona’s favourite wildlife author and bird expert
£225 (CONC. £174)
Dominic Couzens.
DAWN CHORUS MORNING (WITH FULL ENGLISH BREAKFAST) IS ALSO OPEN TO NON-RESIDENTS
FOR £16 AS A SEPARATE BOOKING.
Walking Week 1: The Joys of Spring
1-7 May (Fri-Thurs a.m.)
The perfect antidote to urban life and the pressures of work, Othona’s walking weeks
are renowned for the diversity and sheer beauty of the routes on offer. Where shall
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(UJPLU[[YHJRZ[VWYLOPZ[VYPJTVU\TLU[Z&/PZ[VYPJ]PSSHNLZ[OYLHKLKI`[YV\[
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Sue Howse regularly teaches mindfulness courses at Othona. She has completed
the Mindfulness Self-Compassion 8-week course and in 2015 will be completing the
Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher Training. www.susanhowse.co.uk
£218 (CONC. £179)
Each morning we set out with packed lunches and share in a led walk of between
3 and 8 miles. These are gentle group walks, not forced marches, but Dorset has
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friendly company and enchanting footpaths. No walk is compulsory, so you can
shape your own week. Back at Othona we’ll enjoy scrumptious home-cooked food,
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£307 (CONC. £232)
(See also 19-24 Sept.)
Visit www.othona-west-dorset.co.uk for news, views and photo gallery
7
6
Honouring Our Sacred Self
2 May (Sat 10.00-5.00)
A one day yoga retreat with Sian Alcock. “Let’s step away from our busy lives as we
gently and mindfully open ourselves to a day of nurturing, rejuvenating and healing.”
All enquiries and bookings through Sian on 07527 052273 or
sian.sacredshores@gmail.com www.sacredshores.net
(See also 27 June and 14 Nov)
£50, LUNCH INCLUDED, OR £55 IF BOOKING IN FINAL 2 WEEKS.
Digital Detox – 2 Day
8-10 May (Fri-Sun p.m.)
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emails, tv and any device you’re prepared to leave at home or switch off. You’ll feel
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with others, on the blessings and drawbacks of the ever-connected lifestyle. We’ll
share some practical ways to organise our lives so that they really belong to us, not
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All this in an environment of great natural beauty with good company and heartwarming home-cooked food.
(See also Digital Detox – 4 Day 17-21 June and Digital Detox – 2 Day 9-11 Nov.)
£140
Open Space with Crafty Creativity options
12-17 May (Tues-Sun p.m.)
Open Space means a classic Othona relaxation week – spend time in community but
with a minimal programme so you can pursue your own priorities (walking, reading,
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You‘ll be free to decide your own schedule, but with recommended options. This
week we have three Othona favourites offering encouragement and resources for you
to get creative. Ali Tebbs makes exquisite small books, boxes and mosaics. Elizabeth
Sayers is a textile artist who will focus on printing and collage. Carole Atkins will offer
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£286 (CONC. £224)
(See also 22-25 June and 25-31 July)
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23-27 May (Sat-Wed a.m.)
Our much-loved short break for families (and others) always offers fun and creative
opportunities: games, music-making etc. This time we have a special project: young
WLVWSLTHRPUNVULVYTVYLÄSTZ[VNL[OLY/LYL[VOLSW^P[OKPYLJ[PUNLKP[PUNHUK
[OL[LJOZPKL^PSSILÄSTTHRLYAndy Howlett and computer wiz George Corney, both
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HUKHTVUL`ZH]PUNKLHSMVYMHTPSPLZ
£205 (CONC. £154) 11-18: £107 3-10: £82 BUT ELDEST CHILD PER FAMILY FREE
8
Visit www.othona-west-dorset.co.uk for more about each event and Othona
Listening to the Green Heartbeat: a Nature-based Retreat
28-31 May (Thurs-Sun p.m.)
Whether we live in a city or in the countryside, Nature is the ever present context of
our lives – our evolutionary and our personal histories are inextricably entwined with
the earth. Our response to the natural world may range from indifference through to
wonder and love and sometimes to fear. There is a long history within many spiritual
and religious traditions of drawing on a wisdom from within Nature, whether it is seen
as coming from a Higher Being or from Nature itself.
This is a facilitated retreat exploring how an enriched relationship with the natural
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level. It will entail some walking on rough ground and the gradient to the beach. The
aim over these few days is to offer guided opportunities to explore what it means for
you to encounter Nature in an intentional, contemplative way and to seek out what it
may offer you. Dr Julie Walker is an ecologist and psychotherapist who draws on her
skills and experience to share her passion for the natural world and encourage others
to also value it more fully for themselves. She has led a number of retreats at Othona
and elsewhere.
£200 (CONC. £162)
Mindfulness for Men
5-7 June (Fri-Sun p.m.)
Mindfulness, in short, is a meditation-based life practice which has helped countless
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midst of a busy, frantic and high pressure life, or to cope creatively with anxiety,
stress and depression. Many people from both ends of this spectrum have come
to swear by it, as something that has changed for the better the way they approach
life. Tim Stead is a parish priest who has practised Christian forms of contemplative
prayer for 30 years. He discovered Mindfulness 6 years ago and has been training
through the Oxford Mindfulness Centre and running courses under their supervision.
www.hthq.org.uk and www.oxfordmindfulness.org
£145 (CONC. £118)
Guild of Health Annual Quiet Day
11 June (Thurs 10.00-4.00)
;OL8\PL[+H`PZSLK[OPZ`LHYI`Dr Graham Kings, Bishop of Sherborne. Please
bring packed lunch – soup, tea and coffee are provided. More details from Josephine
Pearse on 01308 897784.
£6 PAYABLE ON ARRIVAL
“Surely the greatest service station on life’s motorway. I leave refreshed, refuelled and
ready for my journey to tomorrow. I shall hold for a long time the love and care of a
very special group.”
9
Digital Detox – 4 Day
17-21 June (Wed-Sun p.m.)
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HZR`V\YZLSM[OH[&;OPZYL[YLH[VMMLYZ[^V[OPUNZ-PYZ[HZLYPV\ZIYLHR![PTLV\[MYVT
emails, tv and any device you’re prepared to leave at home or switch off. You’ll feel
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with others, on the blessings and drawbacks of the ever-connected lifestyle. We’ll
share some practical ways to organise our lives so that they really belong to us, not
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All this in an environment of great natural beauty with good company and heartwarming home-cooked food. (See also 2 day Digital Detox 8-10 May. Although there
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deeper the second time around.)
£280
Mindfulness and Creativity Retreat
22-25 June (Mon-Thurs p.m.)
The practice of Mindfulness-based Meditation is about “paying attention in a
particular way, in the present moment, non-judgmentally” (Jon Kabat-Zinn). At the
heart of this retreat will be periods of mindful meditation, stillness and silence, where
we come together as a group.
During the practical creative sessions you will have the opportunity to choose to
learn new skills, to explore creativity through mindfulness techniques, or to develop
your own ideas within a calm and supportive environment. This retreat is suitable for
all, whatever your previous experience.
Sue Howse is a psychotherapist with a Diploma in Christian Spirituality and runs
regular courses and workshops on Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction. Ali Tebbs
trained as an art teacher but pursued a career elsewhere. Now retired, she is
enjoying sharing her craft skills and resources with others. Sue Lansbury is an artist,
sculptor and teacher with a fascination for environment and landscape. All three live
in Dorset.
www.susanhowse.co.uk facebook: Ali Tebbs – Boxes www.suelansbury.co.uk
£241 (CONC. £203)
Honouring Our Sacred Self
27 June (Sat 10.00-5.00)
A one day yoga retreat with Sian Alcock. “Let’s step away from our busy lives as we
gently and mindfully open ourselves to a day of nurturing, rejuvenating and healing.”
All enquiries and bookings through Sian on 07527 052273 or
sian.sacredshores@gmail.com www.sacredshores.net
(See also 2 May and 14 Nov)
£50, LUNCH INCLUDED, OR £55 IF BOOKING IN FINAL 2 WEEKS.
“Amazing place, excellent event, groovy folks, way cool!”
10
Visit www.othona-west-dorset.co.uk for day events and non-residential participation
Creative Vegetarian Cookery
30 June – 5 July (Tues-Sun p.m.)
Would you like to expand your experience of vegetarian dishes and release your
JYLH[P]P[`HYV\UK[OLJVSV\Y[L_[\YLHUKISLUKPUNVMPUNYLKPLU[Z&>LJVTIPUL[OL
cookery with simple mindfulness techniques to heighten our awareness and help
maintain a calm and focussed way of being – both in the kitchen and in everyday life.
Linda Vincent is an experienced and passionate vegetarian cook and healthy eater,
who says: “To me cooking is a joyous experience and even better when we get the
opportunity to sit down and eat what we have prepared with a group of like-minded
souls.” We will experiment with lesser used grains and pulses and create some
interesting dishes with more familiar ingredients. With free time each day to relax and
explore Othona’s beautiful surroundings, and open discussions on mindfulness and
£296 (CONC. £234)
meditation, and on nutrition and special diets.
Othona Gold Festival Preparation Days
13-17 July (Mon-Fri a.m.)
The coming weekend is our Golden Jubilee Festival. Leading up to is your chance
to spend some time in community, to help with the preparations: putting up gazebos,
mounting exhibition materials, baking, decorating the house etc. But also enjoy
something special each evening, for example: movies made by Young Othonans, a
dance evening, a visiting speaker, an outing. If you plan to attend the Preparation Days
and the Festival Weekend, `V\JHUILULÄ[MYVTWYPVYP[`IVVRPUNHZSVUNHZ^L
receive your form before 31st January. £200 (CONC. £150) 11-18: £100 3-10: £80
Othona Gold Festival Weekend
17-19 July (Fri-Sun p.m.)
6UH1\S`KH`PU 6[OVUHWPVULLYZÄYZ[VWLULK[OPZJLU[YL;OLOV\ZL^HZ
dilapidated, the grounds like a jungle, the amenities virtually nil. But the spirit of
community was strong. Much has changed since then, but we believe Othona’s
sense of purpose, and the need for what it offers, are undimmed. Will you join us to
JLSLIYH[LV\Y`LHYZVU[OPZZP[L&
Saturday will be a Golden Jubilee Gala Day featuring reminiscences, presentations,
a bring-and-share picnic with lots of our local friends and a concert. Sunday will see
a Thanksgiving Celebration and a buffet feast. There’ll be an exhibition summing up
the past 50 years in pictures and looking at exciting prospects for the future.
We’re bound to be short of space for this very special weekend. Priority for
accommodation on site will be given to those who are also coming for some or all of
the Preparation Days immediately leading up to the Festival. If you wish to stay just
for the weekend, please send your booking form in as soon as possible, but we will
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>OH[OHWWLUZ^OLU[OLILKYVVTZH[6[OVUHHYLHSSM\SS&>L»SSHYYHUNLWYP]H[L))
options with some Othona members who live locally. And we can provide contact
details for commercial B&Bs and guesthouses within easy reach. In either case you
should bring your own transport. Please contact us as soon as possible about this;
£120 (CONC. £95) 11-18: £63 3-10: £50
+VYZL[NL[ZWVW\SHYPU1\S`
11
This week has something to appeal to everyone, but will be particularly suited for
families with younger children (primary school ages). Ali Tebbs and Jo Harp will
be providing a range of art and craft projects which can be art-attacked by people
of all ages and abilities. Using paint, paper, glue and a range of craft materials we
will create a wide variety of lovely things based around fantasy and fairytales. All
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led numerous activity events at Othona, here and in Essex. They are mother and
daughter and both live in Bridport.
(See also12-17 May and 22-25 June)
£312 (CONC. £237) 11-18: £165 3-10: £128
Games Galore and More
A week for anyone of any age to feed their playful self. With an emphasis on
L]LY`[OPUNI\[JVTW\[LYNHTLZ6[OVUHPZHNYLH[WSHJL[VNL[Z[\JRPU[VZWVY[ZHUK
fun activities, indoor and outdoor. Table tennis, ultimate Frisbee, jenga, chess, wellie
wanging – we’ll have a few tournaments among ourselves and even make up some
games never played before. But also there will be two outing days – treasure trails
and treetop adventure are likely activities (depending on weather etc.). The costs of
these two activities will be extra, but we can negotiate excellent group rates. Add to
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popular event will be co-led again by Kate Thatcher with members of the Othona
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£307 (CONC. £232) 11-18: £160 3-10: £123
Astronomy for All: Comets and Shooting Stars
Roger Noble, professional astronomer, returns to lead another of his deservedly
popular weeks. This year we focus – in every sense – on comets. Comet ChuryumovGerasimenko (67P to its friends) will pass closest to the sun on 13 August. Will the
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comets within the evolution of the entire universe. 67P may even be faintly visible
in the early hours using the computer-guided telescope, through which we can also
expect good views of Saturn. If that weren’t enough, this is also the week of the
Perseid meteor shower.
£307 (CONC. £232) 11-18: £160 3-10: £123
“Feel we have been bathing in TLC! Thank You.”
12
Are you booking more than 1 month ahead?
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OUR CHARGES
Enchanted Art and Magical Making
1-7 Aug (Sat-Fri a.m.)
8-14 Aug (Sat-Fri a.m.)
Visit www.othona-west-dorset.co.uk for news, views and photo gallery
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Now post this to: Bookings, Othona West Dorset, Coast Road, Burton Bradstock, Bridport DT6 4RN
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MAKING YOUR PAYMENT
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25-31 July (Sat-Fri a.m.)
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17-23 Aug (Mon-Sun a.m.)
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*HSSPUNHSS`V\UNZPUNLYZWSH`LYZKLZPNULYZHJ[VYZHUKZVUN^YP[LYZ:PUNLY
songwriter Joanna Eden will be leading a week of music making and story telling
with a simple mission: creating a brand new musical…. from scratch. Jo taught
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at Othona to guide young people through the devising, composing and performing of
a totally original piece of musical theatre.
If you’re excited by the idea of a week of vocal coaching, songwriting sessions,
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hand, of course, but they’ll be taking a back seat. Young people – from 8 to 18 ideally
¶^PSSIL^OH[P[»ZHSSHIV\[5)@V\UNLYJOPSKYLUJV\SKILPU]VS]LKI\[PUHTVYL
limited way.)
Facebook: JoannaEdenSingerSongwriter
£307 (CONC. £232) 11-18: £160 3-10: £123
Circle Dance Delights
24-28 Aug (Mon-Fri p.m.)
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A relaxing break in community, with international circle dancing sessions led by
Kathryn Penny, well known for her skilled but approachable way of teaching. She
has an amazing range of music and dances from many parts of the world. Some
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strong sense of the individuals in the circle losing their self-consciousness about
footwork or hand movements, tuning in to a palpable sense of oneness. No dance
PZVISPNH[VY`0M`V\»YLUL^[V[OPZ`V\^PSSÄUKNVVKZ\WWVY[MYVT2H[OY`UHUKV[OLY
dancers with more experience. (Non-dancing friends or partners who share your
bedroom are also welcome to this event.)
£235 (CONC. £184)
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Are you booking more than 1 month ahead?
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OLVWHGEHORZWKHHYHQWGHVFULSWLRQFor each event booked, we require a standard non-refundable deposit of
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GHFLVLRQ:HGRQ·WTXRWHconcessionary rates for childrenEXWDUHKDSS\WRFRQVLGHUDUHGXFWLRQLI\RXUIDPLO\QHHGVLW
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OUR CHARGES
Let’s Make a Musical!
Roll Up Your Sleeves
6-11 Sept (Sun-Fri a.m.)
Another chance to help around the house and grounds. Up to 6 hours work a day,
^P[O]HYPLK[HZRZ[VZ\P[`V\YHIPSP[PLZ:OHYLKQVIZPUJVTT\UP[`HYLHSV[VMM\U[VV
(See 2-8 March)
£80 (NO CONCESSIONS)
“Little did I know that what actually awaited me was a carefully structured, deeply
rejuvenating gentle programme of physical and spiritual nourishment that would
touch and restore the mind, body and heart. Hilarious and nurturing company of
sensitive, thoughtful people from all different places. The accepting, caring welcome
of the core community.”
13
Quiet Week
12-18 Sept (Sat-Fri a.m.)
Do you long for soulful relaxation and quiet, but not enough to go on a completely
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^OPJO^PSSYLZ[WHY[ZVM`V\[OH[ULLKYLZ[¯HUKH^HRLUWHY[Z[OH[OH]LKVaLKVMM
Othona provides a simple ‘container’ that has proved its effective eness in calming
the body, refreshing the mind and deepening inner peace.
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the day.
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art room too.
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Kate Compston returns to support the atmosphere of contemplation and offer each
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has led a good many retreats, has a particular interest in poetry and creativity, and
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Being in community of course you will be asked to help with a light household job
each day; sharing these tasks in a spirit of gift, not obligation, is a positive part of the
£337 (CONC. £262)
experience.
Walking Week 2 – Stepping Out
19-24 Sept (Sat-Thurs a.m.)
Another of Othona’s renowned community walking holidays. As autumn approaches,
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weather is often glorious. Practical details, including distances, are as for Walking
£256 (CONC. £194)
Week 1 (see 1-7 May).
Sing Your Heart Out!
25-27 Sept (Fri-Sun p.m.)
Sarah Pennington and Gilo return to lead a weekend of vibrant songs to nourish the
OLHY[HUKIYPUNQV`[V[OLZWPYP[;OLPY^LLRLUKZHYLHS^H`ZWVW\SHYHUKÄSS\WMHZ[
so it’s best to book early, especially for limited single rooms. Sarah and Gilo teach in
a way which is engaging and sensitive, particularly to any new to singing, and their
workshops involve humour and a spirit of fun. They always bring out the best in a
group of singers. The songs for the weekend will be drawn from many sources, some
upbeat and jazzy, some gentle and meditative – something for everyone. No need to
read music or even think of yourself as an experienced singer to enjoy this weekend.
1\Z[IYPUN`V\Y]VPJLHUKOLSW\ZYHPZL[OLYHM[LYZ
Find Sarah and Gilo individually on www.naturalvoice.net
£146 (CONC. £121)
DAY VISITORS WELCOME FOR BIG SING DAY ON SATURDAY 26 SEPT 10.00 – 5.00
£18 INCLUDES LUNCH AND OTHER REFRESHMENTS. BOOKING ESSENTIAL.
Returned to Fullness: Blessings and Beatitudes
(An Appleseed Course)
30 Sept – 4 Oct (Wed-Sun p.m.)
The act of blessing is a living mystery within many spiritual traditions. In this course
we will uncover, explore and celebrate our own blessedness and its action in the
world, using the Appleseed process of mindful, simple creativity. Inspired by beautiful
and unexpected readings from a wide range of sources, participants are guided in
meditative arts activities requiring no special skills. The format of evening arrival,
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of community. Appleseed proves itself time and time again as an inspiring and
rewarding process that opens the heart, feeds the mind and lets the spirit soar.
Jennie Barnsley and Roy Bayfield have conducted Appleseed courses at Othona for
over 10 years.
simplespiritcreativity.com
£250 (CONC. £199)
The Hidden Gospel
8 Oct (Thurs 10.00-4.00)
A rare chance to spend a study day with Neil Douglas-Klotz, the leading scholar of
‘the Aramaic Jesus’. He goes back to Aramaic, the mother tongue in which Jesus
Z\YLS`ZWVRLHUK[H\NO[;YHUZSH[PUNMYVT[OH[YPJOS`HSS\ZP]LSHUN\HNLUV[ÄS[LYLK
through Greek and its worldview as the New Testament usually is) can bring a
remarkably fresh perspective on familiar words from the gospels. As one reviewer
said, his “reinterpretations of well-known phrases are insightful, penetrating, and
in some cases dazzling. This book will change the way many people read the New
Testament.”
Neil is a teacher and retreat leader who wears his erudition lightly, always grounding
his teaching in what can be of practical support for daily life and spirituality. The day
may include an option of simple meditative exercises and body prayers, to help us
directly experience the life-changing spiritual practice of Jesus’ original mystical
tradition. Neil is author of many books including The Hidden Gospel, Prayers of the
Cosmos and The Genesis Meditations.
More about Neil: www.abwoon.com
£40
TO COMBINE THE HIDDEN GOSPEL WITH THE FOLLOWING RETREAT AS ONE RESIDENTIAL STAY
AT OTHONA, PLEASE ENQUIRE BY PHONE OR EMAIL FOR PRICES ETC.
“Amazing people, amazing games, and a few too many late nights!”
14
Visit www.othona-west-dorset.co.uk for more about each event and Othona
15
Cycles of Life, Cycles of Wisdom: Spiritual Practice for Nature’s
Changing Seasons
9-11 Oct (Fri-Sun p.m.)
6\YSP]LZÄUKOLHS[OHUKOHYTVU`[OYV\NOIHSHUJPUN[OLYO`[OTZ^P[OPUHUKHYV\UK
us: the cycles of the sun and moon, of day and night, of the seasons, and of our own
heartbeat, breathing, nervous and immune systems. This weekend retreat with Neil
Douglas-Klotz and Natalia Lapteva will explore spiritual practice and meditation that
can help us adapt to and thrive within the changing cycles and rhythms of life. This
will include chant, sitting meditation, breath practice, walking meditation, movement,
Dances of Universal Peace and other active tools to help one feel and embody more
SPMLLULYN`7YHJ[PJLZ^PSSILKYH^UMYVTTHU`^VYSK[YHKP[PVUZHZP[PZ[OL:\Ä^H`[V
see unity in all spiritual paths.
Neil and Natalia are the senior leaders of the Dervish Healing Order (DHO) in the
UK (www.dervish-healing-order.org). Neil is the author of several well-known books
on Middle Eastern mysticism and the Aramaic words of Jesus (see www.abwoon.
com). Natalia is a life-coach and psychotherapist, as well as being a DHO healing
conductor/initiator.
£208 (CONC. £183)
LIMITED NON-RESIDENTIAL PLACES AVAILABLE – PRICES ON REQUEST
Enneagram Exploration: Relating from Essence
15-18 Oct (Thurs-Sun p.m.)
The Enneagram is a model of human personality comprising nine basic Types.
4VZ[¶PMUV[HSS¶TPZ\UKLYZ[HUKPUNZJVUÅPJ[ZHUKHSPLUH[PVUZZWYPUNMYVT[OLMHJ[
[OH[[`WLOHZHUHYYV^HUKÄ_LKWVPU[VM]PL^;OLW\YWVZLVM[`WLPZ[VWYV[LJ[
us and to help us cope with a world which seems threatening – albeit in nine very
KPMMLYLU[^H`Z.P]LU[OPZP[»ZUV[Z\YWYPZPUN[OH[MHJLK^P[OHUV[OLYO\THUILPUN¶
however well-intentioned – type reacts in automatic, defensive, and (fortunately for
the purpose of growth) predictable ways. Unfortunately this is true even when we
hope and long for intimacy.
How rare, and how unforgettable, are the moments when our barriers drop and we
come face to face, heart to heart, mind to mind with another. In that moment, love
is known. It may even be a moment shared with a stranger; still, we recognise it and
long for more of that quality of relatedness. This workshop explores why we don’t,
and how we can start to, relate more and more from Essence rather than Type. Come
prepared to do so. It is preferable though not essential if you have some idea of your
subtype before attending.
With Karen Webb, author of “Principles of the Enneagram”, and probably the UK’s
foremost Enneagram teacher. (See also 19-22 March.)
www.theenneagram.co.uk
£241 (CONC. £203)
Just Community – Special Bargain Week
19-25 Oct (Mon-Sun p.m.)
If we were a supermarket we’d probably label this “Othona Essentials”. Simple,
nutritious and a real bargain. A week in company with other people who also desire
inclusive community and spiritual authenticity. We’ll share in everyday jobs and meals
and some of the seasonal work of Othona – probably around picking and preserving
apples.
Each day there’ll be a talk/dialogue or discussion on aspects of what we experience
HZJVTT\UP[`>OH[JHUP[TLHUPUHYHWPKS`JOHUNPUN^VYSK&(]PZP[PUNZWLHRLY^PSS
enliven our discussions early in the week. And on Saturday we’ll share in an Othona
Gold Day – celebrating our Golden Jubilee with many local Othona friends. Single
rooms limited this week so early booking is recommended.
£220 (CONC. £190)
Half Term Breather
28 Oct – 1 Nov (Wed-Sun p.m.)
Our much-loved short break for families (and others) offers different fun and creative
activities every day: walking, swimming, games, music-making etc.
£205 (CONC. £154) 11-18: £107 3-10: £82
Digital Detox – 2 Day
9-11 Nov (Mon-Wed p.m.)
¸/V^JHU0SP]LTVYLZHULS`HUKOLHS[OPS`PUZ\JOHM\SSVUKPNP[HS^VYSK&¹+V`V\HZR
`V\YZLSM[OH[&;OPZ^LLRLUKVMMLYZ[^V[OPUNZ-PYZ[HZLYPV\ZIYLHR![PTLV\[MYVT
emails, tv and any device you’re prepared to leave at home or switch off. You’ll feel
`V\YZLSMZSV^PUN[VHTVYLUH[\YHSYO`[OT(UK[OLU[OLYL»SSILJOHUJLZ[VYLÅLJ[
with others, on the blessings and drawbacks of the ever-connected lifestyle. We’ll
share some practical ways to organise our lives so that they really belong to us, not
[V.\YNSLVY-PaIVVRVY>P[[LY
All this in an environment of great natural beauty with good company and heartwarming home-cooked food.
(See also 4 day Digital Detox 17-21 June and 2 day Digital Detox 8-10 May)
£140
Honouring Our Sacred Self
14 Nov (Sat 10.00-5.00)
A one day yoga retreat with Sian Alcock. “Let’s step away from our busy lives as we
gently and mindfully open ourselves to a day of nurturing, rejuvenating and healing.”
All enquiries and bookings through Sian on 07527 052273 or
sian.sacredshores@gmail.com www.sacredshores.net
(See also 2 May and 27 June)
£50, LUNCH INCLUDED, OR £55 IF BOOKING IN FINAL 2 WEEKS.
“A wonderful opportunity to experience wisdom, spirituality and friendship.”
16
Visit www.othona-west-dorset.co.uk for day events and non-residential participation
17
The Rebirthing of God
20-22 Nov (Fri-Sun p.m.)
“The walls of Western Christianity are collapsing. In many parts of the West that
collapse can only be described as seismic… There are three main responses or
YLHJ[PVUZ[V[OPZJVSSHWZL;OLÄYZ[PZ[VKLU`[OH[P[PZOHWWLUPUN;OLZLJVUKPZ[V
frantically try to shore up the foundations of the old thing. The third, which I invite
us into, is to ask what is trying to be born that requires a radical reorientation of our
vision. What is the new thing that is trying to emerge from deep within us and from
KLLW^P[OPU[OLJVSSLJ[P]LZV\SVM*OYPZ[PHUP[`&¹;OH[»Z[OLRL`X\LZ[PVUJohn Philip
Newell asks in his superb 2014 book The Rebirthing of God. This weekend we will
encounter the major themes of his answer.
John Philip is a former warden of the Iona Community, a liturgist whose luminously
inclusive prayers and blessings are often used at Othona. He is author of numerous
books about Celtic and emerging spirituality and is valued as a retreat and pilgrimage
leader across the world. We are fortunate to welcome him back to Othona.
Half the places on this retreat are reserved for people aged under 40. This
accords with how John Philip and his wife Ali summarise their sense of mission:
We seek to be part of healing in our world - by providing fresh articulation for earthhonouring spirituality, by facilitating inter-faith relationship, by enabling young adults
in contemplation and engagement.
heartbeatjourney.org
RESIDENTIAL: £178 (CONC. £153)
NON-RESIDENTIAL: £108 (CONC. £99) INCLUDES LUNCH AND SUPPER MEALS
PARTIAL BURSARIES FOR UNDER 40S AVAILABLE ON REQUEST
November 2015 to February 2016
The community is open to visitors less than usual during the winter (a time when
we catch up with maintenance, training and other development work). For details
of other opportunities during these months please watch our website or ring us.
Christmas in Community
23-27 Dec (Wed-Sun a.m.)
Christmas at Othona is always rather special, with less of the things you want less
VM[LSL]PZPVUIPUNLPUNIPJRLYPUNTH`ILSVULSPULZZ&HUKTVYLVMHZWPYP[VMWLHJL
and goodwill within a temporary ‘family’ that isn’t your own but where you have a
real contribution to make. Feasting, presents, prayers – all are in the mix, but not
to excess. On Christmas Eve we visit a local organic farm for carol singing among
the straw bales. On Boxing Day you can watch hardy souls take a chilly dip in a
local harbour for charity (or even join them). Equally suited to families, couples or
individuals.
£220 (CONC. £171) 11-18: £114 3-10: £88
New Year Celebrations
29 Dec – 2 Jan (Tues-Sat a.m.)
Othona always greets the New Year in a warm-hearted community fashion, with
a feast, homegrown entertainments and a New Year walk. And we support each
V[OLYUV[PUTHRPUNPTWYVIHISLYLZVS\[PVUZI\[PUZVTLWVZP[P]LYLÅLJ[PVUVUV\Y
experience of the year just ending and hopes for the one to come. Equally suited to
families, couples or individuals.
£220 (CONC. £171) 11-18: £114 3-10: £88
Right here, write now!
15-17 Jan (Fri-Sun p.m.)
/H]L`V\L]LYZHPK¸0»KSV]L[V^YP[LTVYLI\[0Q\Z[JHU»[ÄUK[OL[PTL&¹>LSS[OPZPZ
a chance to stop the clock and treat yourself to a wonderful weekend exploring your
own creativity. As well as an opportunity to mix and mingle with fellow scribes in the
very special atmosphere of Othona, there will be morning workshops with some very
experienced tutors and simple exercises to try all aspects of writing – from planning
HUV]LS[VZ[Y\J[\YPUNHTPUPWSH`MYVTÄYLZPKLZ[VY`[LSSPUN[VWLYMVYTPUNHWVLTPU
the landscape. Plus lots of time to be alone with your pen. You’ll go home relaxed
HUKYLMYLZOLKHUK^P[OHUV[LIVVRM\SSVMZJYPIISLZ`V\»SS^HU[[VÄUK[OL[PTL[V
[HRLM\Y[OLY
Leading the weekend will be Bafta and Writers Guild award winning screenwriter
Alan Gilbey, with (professional commitments permitting) novelist and writing tutor,
Roger Mills and writer/script editor Anne Edyvean, currently story producer of
BBC1’s Holby City.
£123 (CONC. £98)
STOPOVER DEAL: STAY TO MONDAY MORNING (WHEN PUBLIC TRANSPORT IS EASIER)
FOR JUST £20 EXTRA
Quiet Week
6-12 Feb (Sat-Fri a.m.)
/V^HIV\[ZVTLZWHJLMVYYLÅLJ[PVUHZ[OLUL^`LHYILNPUZ[V\UMVSK&;OPZ^LLRPZ
not a completely silent retreat, but offers a depth of tranquillity, a quality of presence
^OPJO^PSSYLZ[WHY[ZVM`V\[OH[ULLKYLZ[¯HUKH^HRLUWHY[Z[OH[OH]LKVaLKVMM
:PUNSLYVVTZN\HYHU[LLK\USLZZ`V\ZWLJPÄJHSS`^HU[[VZOHYL(ISHaPUNSVNÄYL
and home-cooked food. Some meals in silence. A cosy library. A peaceful chapel.
A long empty beach and good walking country. An accepting, creative community.
>VU»[`V\QVPU\Z&
£317 (CONC. £242)
“Hugely enjoyable and deeply transforming. Thank You.”
18
Visit www.othona-west-dorset.co.uk for news, views and photo gallery
19
Sabbatical Stays in Community
On a Sabbatical Stay you could spend anything from a fortnight to a month living
here alongside the core community. You may or may not be on a sabbatical from
paid work. But we take it you are looking for a few weeks ‘off the treadmill’ of
^OH[L]LY`V\YUVYTHSKHPS`SPMLPZ@V\TPNO[JVTLOLYL^P[OZWLJPÄJPU[LU[PVUZ
[VKVZVTLZLYPV\ZYLHKPUN[VJVTWSL[LHJYLH[P]LWYVQLJ[[VNL[Ä[I`^HSRPUNn
miles a day etc.) or with more of an open mind. The Sabbath in Jewish and Christian
understanding has been thought of as a precious time, a stepping back to gain
perspective, a pause for blessing, a spiritual breather. We’ll be delighted if you can
ÄUK[OPZH[6[OVUH
During a sabbatical stay you’re part of a community, sharing in the pattern of our
day. There may be an occasional day when you are on your own; in which case
we will brief you on anything you need to know. We offer two ‘levels’ of sabbatical
involvement, which we call hands-on and hands-off. Our charge is usually £20 per
day (hands-on) or £40 per day (hands-off).
If you come for a hands-onZHIIH[PJHS`V\»SSILVMMLYPUNÄ]LTVYUPUNZH^LLRVY
equivalent time) of voluntary help to whatever is going on in community (obviously
^LTLHUQVIZZ\P[LK[V`V\YÄ[ULZZZRPSSZL[J-VYHhands-off sabbatical we’ll ask
you to do the kind of daily job or jobs we ask of anybody staying in the community,
but no more than that. At times you will need to cook for yourself, and as a member
of the community you will help with washing up, clearing after meals etc, as would
we all. This will leave you plenty of time and energy to pursue your own chosen
activities (the reading, the art, the walks…)
The availability of sabbaticals is limited and at some times of year we will not be
able to offer such space at all (certainly not in August). We discuss with you and
consider each request for sabbatical stays individually. We rarely accept sabbatical
applications from people who have not been to Othona before, so if that’s you, we’d
strongly advise a brief preliminary visit. Please email bookings@othona-bb.org.uk
for more details.
FAQs
Do you have single rooms?
Yes – and twins, doubles and family rooms (but no en-suites). Just tell us your
preference on the booking form. Book early for single rooms – sometimes we will
only have space left if you’re prepared to share.
Is everything provided in the bedrooms?
Duvet, pillows and blankets are provided. You can bring your own duvet cover,
bottom sheet, pillowcases and towels if you wish to save money. Or you can hire
them from us at a one-off cost of £6 per person.
What time of day do events begin and end?
Residential events usually begin with supper at 6.30 or 7.00p.m. It helps us if you
arrive after 4.00p.m. Departure times are mid-morning unless otherwise indicated
(e.g. Sunday p.m.).
Can I arrive a day early or stay over an extra night?
This kind of extension is sometimes possible, particularly to bridge from one event
to the next. Please ask us about the specific dates you have in mind.
Can I reach you by public transport?
Yes. For more information see the back cover.
How do I qualify for a concession?
You don’t have to. Our concessionary rate is freely available to anyone who
feels they need it. It is not just for people receiving state benefits. After all, some
pensioners are comfortably off, while some people in full time work are very hard up
because of their commitments. So we trust your judgment about your own needs.
Can I pay by credit or debit card?
You can now pay us by debit card, via Paypal. When booking you ask us to email
you a Paypal invoice. You can then pay from a Paypal account or using your debit
card. We add 1% to your bill for this service - less than Paypal charge us, in fact.
(We recommend bank transfers which are quick and free of charge).
Do you offer individually guided retreats?
No. You can find places which do through www.retreats.org.uk or 01494 433004.
Do you offer private retreat time, within or outside advertised events?
This is not usually possible outside advertised events, but see below about
ZHIIH[PJHSZ[H`Z4HU`WLVWSLSVVRPUNMVYHYL[YLH[L_WLYPLUJLMPUKV\Y8\PL[>LLRZ
and Open Spaces, with a balance of chill out and community, meet their needs.
20
Visit www.othona-west-dorset.co.uk for more about each event and Othona
21
Can I stay for a longer period?
Our ‘sabbatical stays’ can be anything from a fortnight to a month. Please contact
us to explore possibilities. We cannot offer prolonged stays where your main needs
are therapeutic. As a rule Othona only has living space for those who work as part
of the core community. See separate details on page 20.
Do you hire out the centre for group use?
Yes, occasionally. We have a few openings each year for ‘outside group’ bookings
not advertised in our own Programme. Please contact the warden to discuss
possibilities.
How do you cater for people with disabilities?
All our communal rooms and two downstairs bedrooms are wheelchair-accessible.
There is a hearing loop in the chapel. Guide dogs are an exception to Othona’s
general no dogs rule.
Will I have to do the washing up?
@LZ*VTT\UP[`SPMLTLHUZ^LZOHYLHML^ZPTWSL[HZRZZ\JOHZ^HZOPUN\WHUK
preparing vegetables, usually one each per day. Approached in a spirit of care and
co-operation they can be more like gifts than chores.
What’s your food like? Will my diet be a problem?
We always try to provide home-cooked, healthy, scrumptious meals. We grow some
of our own food and use a lot of produce which is local (West Dorset is a bit of a
foodie heaven), organic or fairly traded. We cater at all times for vegetarians as well
as meat-eaters. With our small kitchen we cannot promise special meals for those on
V[OLYKPL[HY`YLNPTLZ0M[OH[»Z`V\^LOVWL`V\»SSÄUKWSLU[`[VUV\YPZOHUKKLSPNO[
you in what we do serve. Please do bring any supplementary food you are likely to
need; ask for fridge space if you need it; but realise that you won’t usually be able
to cook it at Othona. We always stock soya milk, dairy-free spread, rice cakes and
gluten-free bread and our local town, Bridport, has various specialist food shops.
If you have an allergy or serious medical intolerance to any foodstuffs, please make
sure you notify us at time of booking – then we can plan to feed you well and let you
know if this will involve any extra charge.
Will I have access to media?
All mobile networks now have coverage at Othona, if sometimes a bit patchy.
<YNLU[TLZZHNLZJHUILSLM[MVY`V\PMULJLZZHY`VUV\YVMÄJLWOVUL >LKVU»[J\YYLU[S`OH]LHJVTW\[LYMVY]PZP[VYZ»\ZLUVYKV^LVMMLY^PÄ6[OVUH
generally offers a rest from the chatter of tv, radio, etc. except occasional use of
e.g. DVDs for discussion. If you listen to radio or music in your room we trust you’ll
keep it quiet and not disturb others. Also we discourage the use of phones, tablets
or laptops for games; Othona is a good place to rest from ‘virtual’ worlds.
22
Will my children like it?
>OVJHUL]LYWYLKPJ[&)\[ZLYPV\ZS`L]LU[ZK\YPUNZJOVVSOVSPKH`ZHYL\Z\HSS`
designed to be family-friendly. Most children adjust quickly to community life and
love its freedoms. We have an established child protection policy.
How inclusive are you?
Othona values diversity and aims to break down barriers of age, sex, race, ability
and background. We were pioneers among Christian centres in actively welcoming
people regardless of sexual orientation.
What if I’m not Christian, or not even religious?
You don’t have to be Christian to enjoy Othona or to be welcome here. Many
Othona people are Christian, but some are of other faiths. And many others are
reluctant to be identified with any one religion, seeing themselves on a spiritual
search. Only if you were indifferent or hostile to any such search would we suggest
you think again about visiting Othona.
How ‘holy’ is the atmosphere in your community?
Spiritual health is about being fully human – which may or may not include being
religious. Othona supports anybody who takes spiritual health seriously (by which
^LKVU»[TLHUZVSLTUS`)\[`V\^VU»[LUJV\U[LYHSV[VMWPV\Z[HSRUVYWYLZZ\YL
to share other people’s beliefs. We hope you’ll find ‘soul nourishment’ in our chapel
– as well as on the beach, in the art room, round the dinner table. Our library is a
treasure house of books (and now some audio) to stir the heart and feed the mind,
particularly strong in progressive theology and multi-faith spirituality.
So in what sense is Othona Christian?
In a profoundly open sense – open-hearted and open-minded – which we believe
Christianity at its best is. Here at Othona West Dorset we speak of being “rooted in
the Christian heritage… open to the widening future”. We honour the revolutionary
heart of Jesus’ teaching, when Othona embraces and learns from people of all
MHP[OZHUKUVUL*V\SKH*OYPZ[PHUP[`L]VS]PUNMVY[OLZ[JLU[\Y`ZL[[SLMVYSLZZ&
How crucial it is that the world’s great faiths should relax their defensiveness and
explore common ground. Othona is one tiny step in that direction.
What does the name Othona mean?
5VIVK`RUV^Z,_JLW[[OH[P[^HZ[OL9VTHUZ»UHTLMVYHMVY[[OL`I\PS[VU[OL
Essex coast. Out of the ruins of that fort rose a Christian church in AD654. Close
by that church is the other (and first) centre at Bradwell-on-Sea in Essex. Today
the Othona Community is a far-flung network of people with a love for one or both
centres. Newcomers and non-members are just as welcome as long-established
Othona members.
23
Terms and Conditions
Please read this page carefully. It relates to your financial security and personal safety. Without
your agreement to these terms (by signing the booking form) we cannot accept your booking.
Cancellation Costs
If I have to cancel I accept that Othona returns a varying proportion of my payment:
More than 1 month ahead of the event start date:
all but the deposit
Less than 1 month, more than 1 week ahead:
50%
Less than 1 week ahead:
10%
On or after start date:
nil
I am aware I could take out insurance against loss due to cancellation.
I accept that Othona reserves the right to change or cancel events as necessary.
Recreation at Othona
One of the delights of Othona is its relatively ‘wild’ outdoor environment. We want to keep
this open to all and safe for all. Please read this carefully as it constitutes part of your terms
and conditions for booking.
In this chapel our guiding light
is the example of Jesus
He offered a welcome to all
regardless of status or preference
of sex, race or religion
We seek to honour all faiths
as responses to the divine
as paths to liberation
We look for the Christian tradition
to evolve with new understandings
and to join hands with all
who hunger for justice and peace
By booking to stay at Othona West Dorset I am agreeing to all of the following:
Any or all of the members of my family or party listed on the booking form may want to play
and engage in other recreational activities in the grounds of the Othona Community, including
use of the equipment known as the Treehouse.
I understand that:
a. The grounds include varied terrain on which care is needed to avoid accidental injury.
They are largely ‘undomesticated’ for the sake of wildlife and bio-diversity.
There may be plants growing wild which are poisonous if eaten.
b. As in any wild environment, common sense is needed to enjoy the surroundings and
avoid danger.
c. The possibility of injury to myself and others will always exist.
0JVUÄYT[OH[!
a. I am aware and accept that there are potential risks to myself and others and I will not
deliberately endanger myself or others.
b. I acknowledge and accept the responsibility for the supervision of any child of mine who
plays in the grounds, including use of the Treehouse.
c. I will comply – and ensure any child of mine complies - with the Othona Community
guidelines as to use of the Treehouse or any other play equipment.
K 0^PSSVUS`HSSV^T`JOPSKYLU[V\ZL[OL;YLLOV\ZL^OLU0OH]LZH[PZÄLKT`ZLSM[OH[
it is safe for them to do so.
I hereby release, remise and forever discharge from any claims and liabilities whatsoever
without limitation the Othona Community, its employees and volunteer helpers and any other
person playing in the grounds who might injure me or my child(ren) howsoever arising, and
I make this release on behalf of myself, my heirs, executors and administrators.
If you need extra booking forms and cannot photocopy, call us on 01308 897130
or visit http://www.othona-bb.org.uk/how-to-book/
24
We have no one set form of chapel service. Sometimes a volunteer will lead by
choosing music, a simple chant, sharing experience and thoughts, contributing
readings, poems or prayers. Sometimes we just enjoy a companionable silence.
Othona is about a mile east of Burton Bradstock village on the coastal side of the
B3157. You can reach us by train (or coach) and bus. We send further travel details
in the month before your visit.
Othona Community
Coast Road
Burton Bradstock
Bridport
Dorset DT6 4RN
Office: 01308 897130
Email: mail@othona-bb.org.uk
Website: www.othona-west-dorset.co.uk
Find out much more about Othona on our website: www.othona-west-dorset.co.uk
Community House is in the care of a small resident group, the Core Community.
Day to day management rests with the warden, Tony Jaques, backed by a
a Committee and Trustees drawn from the Othona Community at large.
“All my friends commented that my sparkle had returned after a very long
absence. I’m still glowing a week on.”
Designed by Ammonite Design Associates (01308 862112)
Printed by Creeds (01308 423411)
Photos: Robin Shaw