Many individuals come to Buckfast for a few days of peace, recollection and prayer. Attracted by the beauty of the place and retreating from the world for a few days, they often find themselves asking deep questions and are keen to discuss things with a member of the Monastic community.
Building on this fact, the Vocations Committee took the decision last year to offer a more structured opportunity to engage with Buckfast through a series of guided retreats. Led by a monk or an outside specialist, a group of individuals is brought together for a guided retreat providing both space and gentle input to help address spiritual growth.
Using a specific theme to entice people to join the group; so far, we have held a retreat for gardeners and a retreat for priests. Later this year we will be offering a guided retreat on creation and one for musicians. In 2026 we will again offer a week for priests and for those who wish to deepen their prayer.
Staying in the beautiful surrounding of Buckfast and experiencing our warm hospitality, excellent accommodation and beautiful food, participants have already expressed their gratitude for the opportunity of spending a few days with us and for the warmth of welcome from all whom they met. One feedback form recorded that their retreat was the best they had experienced in 35 years!
What a great recommendation!
