Activities and Events

Although we like to think that Green Pastures provides a tranquil and restful environment, that doesn’t mean that there isn’t plenty going on all through the year!

We have plenty of regular activities, and a wide range of other events. At any of these, guests can take advantage of all the facilities that Green Pastures has to offer.

While we are without a Pastoral Director, we have several Christion counsellors whom we can call upon to give advice and counsel to our guests, but these consultations need to be booked in advance. We can also continue to offer spiritual direction through our Executive members and external experts. During the interregnum we will be having locum chaplains from time to time, who will be able to offer pastoral care to guests.

Regular Activities

Worship
As an organisation totally committed to the gospel of Jesus Christ, worship is fundamental to all we do at Green Pastures. All our guests are encouraged to join with us at various times during the day in the chapel for services or communal reflections. These are generally led by our Pastoral Director or other members of staff. The chapel is always open for individual prayer and meditation. Among other regular services, there is a service of healing communion on Thursday evenings.

Guest Breaks
We are always open for guests to stay for ‘time out’ and personal renewal of body, mind and spirit, whether for a few days or a couple of weeks. We recognise that each guest is an individual with their own unique needs, and so there is no fixed programme – you are free to choose whatever is best for you from the range of activities available.

(We regret that we are unable to guarantee one-to-one time unless requested in advance. No counselling is available at weekends or during special retreats)

Time Out
As part of our ministry we offer to local people and guests regular opportunities for personal prayer and reflection. Starting at 10.15 am with refreshments, Time Out includes a themed morning and afternoon reflection and plenty of quiet space for your own thoughts and prayers – either around the house or grounds or down at Branksome beach. A light lunch is served at 12.45 and the day finishes with tea and cakes at 3.30 pm. Time Out is normally on the second and fourth Wednesdays in each month, but this can vary, so please check. Click here for available dates.
To book please call – 01202 764776.

Art Reflection
This is an opportunity to learn and develop water colour techniques with our resident artist Carmen Watson (ideal for beginners). Starting at 10.15 am with refreshments, it also includes a themed morning reflection. A light lunch is served at 12.45 and the day finishes with tea and cakes at 3.30 pm. Art Reflections take place monthly. To book please call – 01202 764776. Click here for available dates.

Healing Communion
Held every Thursday evening, these quiet, gentle services offer an opportunity for prayer, laying-on of hands or anointing with oil.

Fellowship Days - new for 2009!
Take a day out with your friends and enjoy all the facilities Green Pastures has to offer, including lunch. More details and dates.

Events

Special events
Green Pastures hosts many special events throughout the year, each with a particular focus. These are normally led by well-known people with specific ministry in that area. A list of future events can be found here.

Retreats
For those who want a longer period for quiet reflection and to examine their lives in the light of God’s word and inspiration. Some retreats are guided or deal with a specific topic, but most people make their own retreat during a guest break. Experienced spiritual guidance by members of our staff is available.

Encounter Breaks
An opportunity to meet new friends and share time together, these are often held over the major Christian festivals, such as Easter, Christmas, and also and the New Year.