Open Door Retreat

The Open Door Retreat (ODR) is based on the Spiritual Exercises of St Ignatius of Loyola and was designed in 1980 by two sisters of the Cenacle Community.

An ODR is a wonderful way of giving space for reflection ‘in daily life’. Reflection on one’s relationship with and response to God, to circumstances, to ourselves and to others. It involves a one and a half to two-hour weekly session for nine weeks. Sessions are experiential in nature and include music, art, poetry, reflection, and sharing (from the leaders) on their personal experience of prayer and life. Some sharing from participants is gradually hoped for—to the extent that each feels comfortable. Importantly though, ODR sessions are listening not discussion spaces.

Attending each session is really important (unless absolutely unavoidable), and between sessions a daily commitment of about 15 minutes of quiet time / reflection / prayer will be what makes the retreat fruitful. A variety of materials is offered to help with this.

The first session is introductory and aims to help potential participants get an authentic feel for what the retreat will be like. During the days that follow, they’ll each reflect on whether the ODR is right for them at the time.

Other retreats

Alongside Open Door Retreats, I am also asked to lead bespoke retreats for small groups of people.

The next retreat coming up is at Christian Youth Enterprises in Chichester Harbour on the weekend of 20th to 22nd November 2026.

Jesus once asked the question, “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion?”

If he asked you the same question, how would you answer?

If your answer is yes, maybe you’d benefit from an opportunity to step away from the burdens and distractions of everyday life, or even the busyness of church life?

“Come to me,” says Jesus. ”Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” (Matthew 11, The Message)

Join us for a weekend retreat. Together we will seek to learn Jesus’ unforced rhythms of grace. We will explore ancient contemplative practices that will help deepen our union with Jesus and learn to rest in him. We’ll drop deeper into his promise of life to the full.

Ralph Buckingham will be leading our retreat with Abigail Emsley.
Ralph has a rich background, having worked at CYE in the 90s and 2000s, taught at an international Christian school in India, and dedicated many years to working in a local church. Currently, Ralph serves as a spiritual director, guiding others on their faith journeys. Abigail is currently training to be a spiritual director and is experienced in supporting and working with groups and individuals of all ages.

The all-inclusive price for an individual cabin is £155.

Those willing to share a cabin with one other guest, use the discount code SHARE2 to receive £60 off.

Book now