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In February our Prison Project team made a return visit to HMP High Down, having been invited back by the chaplaincy team after a Prison retreat the previous year. They led another Prison retreat 'The Gift of Choice: Navigating Life with God' on the theme of discernment, with a group of 30+ men participating – one of the largest groups they have worked with so far.

Despite the large numbers, the team commented on the way that they were still able to establish a rapport with those taking part, which is so important to create the right environment for the retreat to succeed. Vron Smith and Sarah Young coordinated the retreat, working alongside the Catholic chaplain (Julio), the Managing Chaplain (Mamadou) and the rest of the chaplaincy team. Vron and Sarah were assisted on the week by Paul Chitnis.

The prisoners who took part said that they found the respectful attitude towards people participating helpful. They particularly enjoyed the chance to share with others. One said:

“Overall, this has been an uplifting and valuable experience. Thanks a million!!”

Following on from the retreat, the Catholic chaplain Julio wrote to the team in thanks for their work, as well as expressing his gratitude to the prison governors and chaplaincy team for supporting the retreat.

I’ve been reflecting on the retreat and the profound impact it has had—both on the men who took part and on the wider path our Chaplaincy is walking together.

For me, the retreat is both a destination and a point of departure. A destination, because it represents the annual summit of the RC Chaplaincy: a moment that reveals the fruit of our daily and weekly efforts to build a faith community that is caring, sincere, and supportive of its members and of the wider population at High Down.

And a point of departure, because the retreat always sends us forward with new ideas, renewed initiatives, and the spiritual energy we need to continue our mission with hope and vitality.

I can say with confidence that those who participated in the retreat, and especially those engaged in our ongoing activities, are experiencing a genuine reawakening of faith that continues to grow throughout their sentences.

(Julio O Iglesias – HMP High Down, Sutton)

Working alongside chaplaincies in this way means that the Prison Project team are able to deliver retreats which build on what a chaplaincy is already able to offer, but give a fresh perspective. The retreats give rise to a sense of renewal. The impact – as Julio said - is profound.

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You can support our Prison Project by making a donation  >>

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We are offering an Online Retreat in Daily Life for all those who work or volunteer in a chaplaincy setting. Read more >>

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The image used is from a workshop held at States of Jersey Prison La Moye.