|PIC1|Retreats, the annual journal of the Retreat Association, was published this week by the Retreat Association.

This year's edition includes the details of 230 retreat centres across and beyond the UK, with their annual programmes, a range of articles about Christian spirituality, and details of training and groups promoting spirituality and spiritual direction.

Alison MacTier, Director of the Retreat Association, explains, “Retreats is a unique and well-respected resource for anyone interested in Christian spirituality. This year we have introduced a theme – Active Retreats – to show that the retreat experience is really open to everyone and is not just an exclusive activity for the minority.

"Although many people encounter God through stillness and silence, there is also plenty of opportunity to do so through an activity or a retreat with a theme. The ways of going on retreat today are unlimited – people can choose from creative hobbies such as painting and writing, to practical IT skills, or ways of dealing with a life crisis such as a relationship breakup or career change.”

A key writer in this year’s magazine is Archbishop Sentamu, who writes that retreats are "a life-changing experience – a special time where God welcomes, heals and guides us".

Other articles cover such wide-ranging subjects as calligraphy, Zen practice, woodcarving, retreats abroad and retreats for hospital staff.

“In times of uncertainty, a retreat has something unique to offer people which can be transforming in its effect.” MacTier added. “We hope that more people will make this discovery in 2010.”

Retreats 2010 is available from many Christian bookshops or by contacting the Retreat Association direct at www.Retreats.org.uk or info@retreats.org.uk