A CARM SO DEEP!

CARM, the Creative Arts Retreat Movement, was founded in 1973 by the Revd. Charles Shells and his wife Mniff, who saw the need for Christians to step aside from their daily lives for a brief spell and develop their God-given talents in a sympathetic setting. CARM now conducts retreats in Houses all over Britain, and some in Europe. I'm just one of many tutors in a number of subjects who join with chaplains from all over the country on their retreats.

Brenda Lealman recently wrote about CARM retreats, “Very often it's when we turn aside for a few quiet moments that we are taken by surprise, see something we hadn't noticed before/ Turning aside like Moses to the miracle of the lit bush”. Miracles aren't unknown on CARM retreats. At least, they provide opportunities for us to turn aside from everyday concerns and routines, for our sensibilities to be sharpened, for us to see, hear, touch, taste something of the glories that surround us and are in us, of the glory that we call God.

“CARM retreats are informal and relaxed. You can expect being accepted and valued simply for being you. You can expect fellowship and friendship; times of unforced laughter, quiet fun and enjoyment; good food; a great deal of creativity as you work at your chosen art under the encouraging, helpful but non-judgemental guidance of a skilled tutor in an atmosphere of reflection and peace. There will be times of silence, that is, from 9.30pm until after breakfast. There is daily worship which is ecumenical in the Christian tradition; and each day the chaplain will give a brief reflection on which you can ponder during the day.”

It only remains for me to say that the retreats are held in Houses all over the country; this year two are taking place abroad, in Ravenna, Italy and Cossqueville, Normandy, as well as one in St. Peter Port, Guernsey. Nearer home, there are regular ones at our Diocesan Retreat House, Offa House.

Why not come along to one of the CARM retreats, either to develop an existing interest or a new one? Perhaps come first to a weekend retreat, and then try a longer one - many people have come to CARM retreats and find themselves returning to different Houses or different types of retreats year after year. I warn you - they are addictive!

There are leaflets on CARM and copies of this year's programme at the back of the church.

Sara Serpell

Illustrations are from CARM newsletter '08/9

Step aside from your daily life for a brief spell and develop your God-given talents.

Madonna & child at Ivy House by Helen Walker

Pen and ink sketch of Assisi by Jackie Ball


St. Peter Port Guernsey by Jean Parry


Ivy House by Brenda Mills