My View

I’m on my yearly retreat in Sheffield, at Visitors’ Week. Some people have asked me why I keep coming back time after time again. I think the answer to that question has to do with the people and the place.

Let’s start with the place. To me, St Thomas’ Church in Sheffield feels like Rivendell. You remember this place in Tolkien’s The Lord of The Rings where Elrond lived (you’ll have to read the book if you can’t relate). To me, St Thomas’ Church feels likes home. But it also feels like a place that is hidden from the evils of the outside world, a place where I can rest without having to keep my sword in hand all the time. It is a place I come to for healing, rest and new vision.

But it’s not just the place, or perhaps: the place wouldn’t be what it is, if it wasn’t for the people. I enjoy meeting old friends. I’ve met so many people that have come to constitute family to me that I want to come back. So thank you, people of St. Toms for your hospitality, friendship and care.