reVive // Beginning the Academic Year – Starting well // Abide in Me: John 15:1–17

Rooted in Scripture. Room to breathe.

Most of us have more good teaching in our heads or our notebooks than we’ve had time to absorb.

reVive retreats are different. Each day is built around three sessions that go deep into Scripture – sitting with the text long enough to let Christ speak through it. Around them though, we build in genuine space: for reflection, for quiet, for the kind of processing and conversation that actually changes things.

The goal isn’t more content. It’s knowing ourselves more honestly and Christ more clearly, that we might love him more and be more deeply shaped into his image.

As a new academic year begins, it can be tempting to launch straight into our plans, projects, deadlines, and responsibilities. Yet before Jesus sends His disciples out into the world, He invites them first to remain close to Him: “Abide in me, and I in you.”

In this guided retreat day, we will reflect slowly and prayerfully on Jesus’ image of the vine and branches in John 15. Together we will consider what it means to begin the year rooted not in anxiety, productivity, or performance, but in communion with Christ. These words invite us into a deeper life of dependence, pruning, fruitfulness, friendship, and love.

The day will centre on three short guided reflections on John 15:1–17, interwoven with generous space for silence, prayer, reading, pondering, and personal reflection in the peaceful surroundings of the Manor. Our hope is that this day will offer a gentle invitation to slow down, listen attentively to God, and begin the year spiritually grounded and renewed.

Whether you are entering a demanding season of study, ministry, leadership, or service, this retreat offers time to reconnect with the One who alone gives lasting life and fruitfulness.

Come and begin the year abiding in Christ.

Rhythm of the day:

(You are most welcome to join us for community prayers beforehand at 9am)

9:30am – Arrival with coffee and pastries

9:45–10:15am – Opening session together

10:15–11:30am – Personal reflection

11:30am–12:00pm – Guided session together

12:00–1:15pm – Personal reflection

1:15–1:45pm – Lunch together

1:45–2:15pm – Final session together

2:15–3:15pm – Personal reflection

3:15–3:45pm – Final reflections together and departure

Registration closes 12pm Monday 28th .