Year of Spiritual Renewal and Wellbeing 2025 

In the Diocese of St Albans, 2025 will be a transformative Year of Spiritual Renewal and Wellbeing. This year-long journey is designed to help us lift our hearts and minds, inspired by the story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus.

As we emerge from the challenges of recent years, not least the legacy of Covid, this initiative aims to guide us in reconnecting with our faith and seeking the renewing life of the Holy Spirit. 

This website offers a wide selection of retreats, courses, and other events available for booking. You will also find suggestions for venues ideal for church community away days and retreats, along with valuable resources to support your activities. In addition, we’ll provide revised guidance and encouragement to help you care for your own wellbeing. All of these will be available here shortly. We look forward to sharing these offerings with you very soon. 

Reconnecting with God and each other 

Throughout the year, clergy, lay ministers, congregations, schools, and chaplaincies will have a wealth of opportunities to deepen their spiritual lives and grow in holiness and wholeness. The Year of Spiritual Renewal and Wellbeing invites us to lift our eyes to God, making spiritual growth a visible priority across our diocese. This initiative not only focuses on spiritual and personal wellbeing but also encourages growth within our church communities, responding to the needs highlighted in recent wellbeing surveys and building on the momentum of this year’s Clergy Conferences. 

A diverse programme of events 

A rich programme of events has been prepared, offering something for everyone. Clergy can participate in guided and silent retreats, including those at St Beuno’s and creative retreats at Lee Abbey. There are also specific retreats for licensed Readers. Walking retreats of various lengths will be available, along with quiet days in unique settings, such as a narrowboat journey along a tranquil canal, open to anyone seeking quiet time with God.

Events for the whole community 

For the wider community, we have planned a series of inspiring events. In the spring, the School of Theology will offer a week-long programme of seminars covering topics from doctrine and education to science and wellbeing. In the summer, the Cathedral will host a Festival of Ideas, where speakers will lead discussions on themes such as disability, music, racial justice, literature, and the environment. As autumn approaches, we will mark the 800th anniversary of the 1225 Magna Carta alongside the annual Alban Lecture, celebrating our rich heritage and commitment to justice. 

Our schools will also play an important role in this journey, with new resources to enrich Collective Worship and Lent observances, as well as dedicated enrichment days to inspire young minds. 

Join the journey, supported by generous funding 

We want everyone to feel welcome and able to participate in this Year of Spiritual Renewal and Wellbeing. Thanks to the generosity of various trusts, most activities are free or heavily subsidised, with no costs coming from parish share. A dedicated website will be launching soon, providing easy access to event details and bookings, so you can choose the activities that best suit you and your church community. 

Let us come together in 2025 to renew our spirits, reconnect with our faith, and embrace this golden opportunity to be transformed.