Embodying the Divine

Wednesday 29 April - Sunday 3rd May 2026

Space is available on this event!

How can we embody divine qualities such as presence, stillness, peace and compassion in the ebb and flow of our daily lives? In this retreat we will explore what the contemporary (though also ancient) practice of mindfulness meditation has to offer and how it relates to contemplative spirituality.
 
Retreat leader Tim Stead will draw on both the evidence-based theory and practice of mindfulness and the Christian contemplative tradition, with inspiration from stories in the Hebrew and Christian scriptures as well as other faith traditions. 

Themes include: God is now; God is stillness; God is embodied; God is love; God is silence; God is compassion; and God is ‘none of the above’.

There will be two sessions each day where we can learn and practice mindfulness skills together as well as reflect on how to bring these into our daily lives. There will also be an opportunity for one-to-one sessions with the retreat leader. And you'll have plenty of time to relax, enjoy the grounds and go for afternoon walks.

This course is suitable for beginners in mindfulness as well as those who have had some experience and people of all faith backgrounds are welcome.
 
Tim Stead trained to teach mindfulness with the Oxford Mindfulness Foundation and has also had training in theology, spirituality and spiritual direction. He is currently a freelance mindfulness teacher, teaching in both faith and secular contexts.
Extra Accommodation

If this retreat is as popular as we expect, we will be offering alternative accommodation for some at Marian Dunlop House in Dorchester. A retreat centre owned by the Fellowship of Meditation, it is a substantial Victorian house with comfortable upstairs bedrooms, a well-kept garden and very convenient for Dorchester South station. Staying here you will breakfast with others as a mini-community and then go to Othona by car (ours or yours) to join in the rest of the day's retreat activities.

We advise early booking if you'd particularly like accommodation at Othona. If you'd prefer to try Marian Dunlop House please say so in the 'Questions or Comments' section of the booking form. Prices (see below) are exactly the same as at Othona itself.

Fee Types

You are genuinely welcome to choose whichever rate suits you

(Learn more about our Pricing Policy & Bursaries)

Arrival + Departure Times

(Learn about Arrival+Departure)