» It has been a busy week just passed. Last Wednesday afternoon the mission fathers returned to their parishes after joining the resident community for the annual conventual chapter followed by two days of intensive discussion, both as a full community and in smaller groups. We were facilitated in some of our reflections and discussions by Fr Luke Beckett OSB of Ampleforth and Fr Paul Lyons of the Portsmouth diocese. Despite the intensity of the workload there was a happy and convivial atmosphere, especially at meals (where silence was relaxed for the duration) and at recreation. Though the process is set to continue, this whole-community consultation proved a success indeed. The singing at divine office certainly experienced a fillip.
» On Thursday Fr Paul Lyons returned with more than 30 brother clergy from the Portsmouth diocese for a Lenten retreat day led by Fr Hugh. Bishop Philip was with them in the morning as well.
» This weekend we have a large number of groups staying with us or using our facilities. In particular there is a day of recollection tomorrow for a group from the Catholic parish at Goring, to be led this year by Br Simon. Also a number of students from the Oxford University chaplaincy are with us on an Ignatian retreat.
