The God Who Cries
A Christmas Retreat with the Carmelites
Reflections on the Romances of St John of the Cross
December 12-14 I Residential Retreat
Date: December 12th – 14th
Venue: Carmelite Priory, Boars Hill, Oxford
Discover a God Who Comes Close
This Christmas, step away from the rush of the season and enter into a sacred space of silence, prayer, and contemplation. The God Who Cries retreat invites you to encounter God in the tender, transformative intimacy revealed in the Romances of St. John of the Cross.
In a peaceful Carmelite setting, you will explore the mystery of a God who comes to us, desires us, shares in our sorrows, and transforms our lives with love. Through guided talks, silent meditation, contemplative prayer, and reflective journaling, you will enter more deeply into the presence of the God who loves, suffers, and rejoices with us.
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A Journey Through the Divine Romance
Over three days, we will explore four transformative themes:
• The God Who Comes – Discover the wonder of the Incarnation, the God who chooses to dwell among us, and the gift of Emmanuel.
• The God Who Desires – Experience the heart of God’s longing for intimacy with you, a divine desire that mirrors your own longing for love and connection.
• The God Who Cries – Encounter a God who enters your wounds, your pain, and your grief, and meets them with tender Compassion.
• The God Who Transforms – See how God’s presence can transform sorrow into joy, wounds into communion, and moments of weakness into profound grace.
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A Contemplative Experience
This retreat is designed to allow silence to speak, reflection to deepen, and the Spirit to move freely within. Each day includes:
• Guided silent meditation and prayer
• Four inspiring talks drawn from the Romances of St. John of the Cross
• Meals in silence to practice presence and contemplation
• Opportunities for journaling, walking, and personal reflection
• Communal prayer and liturgy to ground the retreat in worship
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Who Should Attend …
This retreat is perfect for anyone seeking:
• A deeper encounter with God’s presence this Christmas
• Space to slow down and listen inwardly
• Healing, consolation, and transformation in their spiritual journey
• Inspiration from Carmelite spirituality and the poetry of St. John of the Cross
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Retreat Details
- Dates: Friday, December 12 – Sunday, December 14
- Location: Carmelite Priory, Boars Hill, Oxford
- Accommodation: Residential, single or shared rooms
- Meals: Supper Friday, all meals Saturday, breakfast & lunch Sunday included
- Retreat Size: Limited to 15 participants to ensure a personal, contemplative experience
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A Transformative Gift For Your Soul
Come away this Christmas and meet a God who desires more than your attention—who desires your heart. Step into a space where silence becomes a doorway, where prayer becomes conversation, and where your wounds and joys alike can be met by a loving, compassionate God.
Spaces are limited — reserve your place today.