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Each Quiet Garden is unique! Each responds to local needs and circumstances, has its own particular identity and charism. Be it through day retreats, "drop-in" times, morning courses or special initiatives, each Quiet Garden provides space for sharing prayer and stillness, learning and laughter. Whatever the chosen format of the days visitors return to their active lives resourced and nurtured by a time apart. At the heart of each Quiet Garden is a group of people whose task is to pray and discern local needs. With the hostess they are responsible for day to day practical details such as planning the format of the days, deciding how often the ministry is offered and welcoming visitors. Also crucial is the support and blessing of local clergy. It may not be appropriate for them to be actively involved, but hopefully they will see the Quiet Garden as a resource for themselves and their congregations. Most Quiet Gardens are in private homes and gardens, but this is not the only model. Increasingly churches are considering how they can make best use of the space around the building. This is often quite extensive and underused. With vision and imagination they are able to offer an important extension to their ministry, be it simply by making the space available or by offering some hospitality or in some cases quiet days. Affiliated Retreat Centres, who welcome guests for residential stays, often focus their Quiet Garden ministry on days for local people. Some schools are also coming to realise the value of offering a designated quiet space in their grounds, where students and staff can withdraw for a short while for a few moments refreshment. Each Quiet Garden is affiliated to The Quiet Garden Trust and receives a certificate on joining. For more information on setting up a Quiet Gardena and affiliating, please e-mail us your name and address at quiet.garden@ukonline.co.uk and we will try to answer any questions and send you details by post.
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