We were going on a walk to Lanty Scar together, with the intention building a cairn of remembrance. Some carried a stone with them whilst others found stones at the summit. Each stone marking a special remembrance for each person. On the journey John Fleetwood led the group in prayer or a reflection on God's creation. He encouraged us to think about the building of the remembrance cairn as a collective symbol of thanksgiving. 

We began in a circular glade in Rydal Hall woods marked out with brushwood by the gardeners at Rydal Hall. Then on the exposed summit we were encircled again but with the much wider expanse of the Cumbria mountains so that we could encounter the wonder of God's gift to us in the beauty of the Lake District.

Sacred Encounters is a monthly programme, please join us in coming months. 

Soak in nature, celebrate and give thanks for the goodness in the world, and gather as community in the beautiful surroundings of Rydal Hall.

Sacred Encounters celebrate and reflect on the sacred wonder, beauty and awe to be found in nature as a community of friends. Each encounter embodies a Christian principle that enhances and sustains life in the everyday. Sacred Encounters are open to people of all faiths or none, whilst being informed by the Christian faith. It is an initiative of Beyond The View.

Each event starts and finishes with a blessing, focusing on a theme such as hope, forgiveness, new life or bringing light to a dark world. We embody these themes through simple practices that connect us with each other and the sacred heart of nature. Our aim is to deepen these connections and our understanding of God by creating a contemplative space in the fells and woods surrounding Rydal. The exact content of each Sacred Encounter will vary, but common elements include the sharing of food around a campfire, some form of symbolic practice, as well as curated times of conversation and discussion.

When and where do we meet?

We meet once a month outside the café in the grounds of Rydal Hall at 1pm on the 2nd Saturday of themonth.

What happens?

Through a WhatsApp group we invite members to meet up with each other in the morning for a physical activity (walk, run, swim or cycle) or creative opportunity (read, write, draw, paint). Alternatively, you may simply prefer to use the time to savour the peace of Rydal gardens. The more structured part of the event starts at 1pm, meeting outside the café at Rydal Hall. We then walk to the Pilgrim’s Rest, a covered area in the woods, where we gather for a shared lunch around a fire. Each of us brings something to share for an outdoor feast, trusting that between us we will have something of everything. This is a time for catching up, making new friends and sharing life together. After the lunch we walk to a nearby hill, wood, river, tarn or garden to share in a symbolic act of celebration and thanks. Each Sacred Practice follows a seasonal pattern and adopts a different theme each month. Having re-gathered at the Pilgrim’s Rest, we conclude the structured time with a shared blessing.

Is it religious?

Sacred encounters are open to people of all faiths or none, whilst being informed by the Christian faith. It is religious in the sense that we seek spiritual engagement, but it does not require conformity to a rigid set of beliefs. We make every effort to use inclusive language and to respect the views of everyone. Come with an open, inquisitive mind, and to be prepared to listen to others as well as having the opportunity to share your own perspectives.

What do I need to bring?

Please ensure that you bring a proper waterproof jacket and trousers, spare warm top, hat, gloves, walking shoes, and a good sense of humour for those days when the delights of nature are less apparent. Please also bring a stone for the communal cairn. If the event involves water, please also bring a towel and clothing suitable for paddling. If you plan to swim, please bring appropriate clothing and a change of clothing.

Will you look after me?

The expectation is that you will only engage in activities where you are able to look after yourself and any dependents (under 18 year olds and pets). Please see the description for each Sacred Encounter to assess your own ability, and anyone attending with you against the risks encountered.

What level of fitness do I need?

All of the walks are modest in length (generally up to 7 km) and typically utilise good paths. However, some walks may involve rougher ground and steep slopes. The event information includes details on the walk to help you decide on their suitability for you.

Are there toilet facilities at Rydal?

Yes, there are accessible toilets.

Do I need to book?

No, you can just turn up, but it would be helpful if you contacted us so that we know to expect you.

We will also gather as community in the sharing of food and conversation around a fire at the Pilgrim’s Rest.