The Practice of Joy: CS Lewis Retreat

On this Creationtide retreat, we explore the topic of joy with C S Lewis, author of the Narnia Chronicles (nature was one of the chief mediums through which joy came to him). We will explore the different aspects of the subject that he so delights in; finding joy in creation, discovering how we can share the joy, learning about different modes and manifestations of joy, anticipating the joy of heaven, and working out how joy could become our daily ‘practice’.  In his autobiography, based around the concept of joy, Lewis said ‘In a sense the central story of my life is about nothing else’.

This is a retreat for the refreshment of the spirit as Andy Swinford leads us on a deep dive into the joy-filled life and writings of C S Lewis (no prior knowledge needed!). The wind of joy breathes through both his stories and non-fiction and we will draw close to God by using the insights they provide as jumping-off points for our own experiences of joyous wonder. There will be space for reflection, walking, prayer, and enjoying God’s wonderful creation in the beautiful grounds and surroundings of Launde Abbey.

Andy Swinford delivers multimedia presentations and online classes about C S Lewis, as well as leading retreats on the spiritual enrichment to be gained from the writings of the two friends Lewis and Tolkien. He is the author of ‘The Practice of Joy: insights from the stories of C S Lewis’ (Grove) and a contributor to ‘The Christian Tradition in English Literature’ (Zondervan). He lives in Birmingham and is a former teacher of English Literature. Since retiring from teaching beekeeping has become one of his chief joys.

Retreat price: £495 (standard room) or £540 (character room)
EARLY BIRD RATE: £465 (standard room) or £510 (character room) if booked by 23rd June 2025!
Price includes en-suite accommodation, all meals, and all retreat resources.
It may be possible for you to extend your stay with us by adding an extra night before or after this retreat. Please contact the Abbey directly if you would like to extend your stay.

Click here to book your place on this retreat:

For any questions, or queries or if you’d like to know more, please call  01572 717254 or alternatively email us: [email protected]