BACKGROUND | COMMUNITY | PARISH

 Background

Minsteracres is a Christian (Roman Catholic) retreat centre but welcomes people of all faiths as well as people of none. We also welcome guests who want a few days of quiet, relaxation, prayer, or rest. Minsteracres Retreat Centre is owned by the Passionists (Congregation of the Passion of Jesus Christ) and run on their behalf by a board of governors. There is a resident community of four Passionist priests and one layperson, plus a retreat team of four laypeople who work part time. In addition to the retreat programme, we also provide short breaks for carers and for the families and friends of people affected by addiction to drugs, alcohol etc. We hold away days for refugees and asylum-seekers: our beautiful grounds provide people, particularly the children and the young people, with the scope for walks, football and other games, and open-air picnics. Many organisations come here to run their own retreats or other events. The centre is known for its homely atmosphere, warm hospitality and tranquillity. Set in approximately 90 acres of lawns, parks and woodland, it is renowned for its avenue of sequoiadendron giganteum (Californian giant redwood trees). The wonderful arboretum (known as The Shrubbery) is currently being reclaimed by a team of volunteers. We are developing a 'green' agenda (we are composting, recycling and installing energy-saving bulbs as a start). We are interested in working with people of other faiths and cultures, and initiatives are already in hand or in development.

The Passionist Congregation (registered charity No. 234436) has owned the house and surrounding grounds since 1950. It first served as a house of study for Passionist candidates to the priesthood. In 1967 the Retreat House was opened and from then on Minsteracres' primary role has been that of a retreat centre.

One of two stands of Californian

giant redwoods (Sequoiadendron

Giganteum) on the avenue to

Minsteracres