In 2016 John Philip Newell began a teaching initiative that is now called The School of Earth & Soul (formerly The School of Celtic Consciousness.) Its purpose is to reawaken awareness of the sacred in all things through the recovery of Celtic wisdom for today and to help translate this awareness into compassionate action. The School follows a three-year cycle of teaching in its annual retreats. Participants may join at any stage in the three-year cycle and attend any of the School locations.
This year, the Centre for Religion and Its Contexts at Emmanuel College is offering: Celtic Wisdom 3: Sacred Imagination.
This commuter retreat includes both teaching and spiritual practice over the three days, beginning with evening prayer on the first day and concluding just before lunch on the third day. Each day begins and ends with meditative prayer and chant. John Philip teaches from the wisdom of Celtic prophets over the centuries, applying this ancient wisdom to the most critical challenges of today. Spiritual practice is led by Cami Twilling, Director of Earth & Soul. The second day offers two teaching sessions and two spiritual practices sessions, as well as time in the afternoon for rest, walking, reflection, and silence.
Breakfast and dinner will be on your own in the vibrant urban setting surrounding the campus. Lunch on the second day is shared in common, and that evening, we have a party to celebrate our time together at the School. On the final morning before lunch, there is a teaching session followed by a closing session of thanksgiving.