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Core Group Members Convener: Revd David Bunney 1 The Silence & Retreats Network exists to promote wider appreciation of the use of silence in worship and individual prayer-life, and to encourage participation in retreats. In this we share membership of the Retreat Association with all the main denominations. Our activities are acknowledged by being part of the Doctrine, Prayer and Worship Committee and the Convener sits on the executive committee of the Retreat Association. Others represent us on the CTE Spirituality Co-ordinating Group and in preparation for the forthcoming conference of the Retreat Association. Membership of the Network continues to draw interest from all parts of the Church, from ministers and members alike who want to deepen their spiritual life. 2 The Core Group is a co-ordinating body which publishes the journal 'Windows' which, under the editorship of Alan Fox, is widely appreciated for its standards. The Core Group also oversees the work of the Synod links who are responsible for organising retreats and quiet days in their respective synods; an annual consultation is held with them. It is pleasing to note that recognition of the place of silence is becoming part of the ongoing programme of ministers' meetings and, in some cases, of continuing ministerial education. Increasingly this is being shared ecumenically. We have within our membership a number of people who have specific training for leading quiet days and retreats, and some who as trained spiritual directors can guide groups and individuals towards a deeper understanding of the place of silence in their spiritual life. 3 The changes that have occurred in the Core Group have borne fruit in enabling a better and more up-to-date record of membership to be maintained, building on the invaluable work done by Jack Thompson, and which is being continued by our new Treasurer and Membership Secretary Gill Jackson. Again there have been a number of changes among the synod links, most obviously due to ministerial movements. The current list is: North Western: Gillian Heald, 32 Redbridge, Bolton, Lancs BL2 5PB Mersey: Revd Ken Jones, 3 Wyncroft Close, Whitby, Ellesmere Port CH65 6TT West Midlands: Revds Ken & Meriel Chippindale, 45 Beacon Road, Sutton Coldfield B73 5ST Eastern: Revd Alison Chart-Key, 13 Nuns Gate, Thetford IP24 3EL South Western: Revd Brenda Stephenson, 33 Cranhill Road, Street, Somerset BA16 0BZ Wessex: Revd Jane Weedon, 8 Field Walk, Lymington, Hants SO41 9LG Thames North: Revd Bridget Powell, Fairways, 2 Kiln Lane, Ley Hill, Chesham HP5 3QS Southern: Mrs Pamela Pavitt, 30 Wakefield Gardens, Upper Norwood, London SE19 2NR Wales: Revd Dr Julie Hopkins, The Manse, Wolfsdale, Nr Camrose, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire SA62 6JJ Scotland: Revd John Dyce, 340 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G1 2BX Northern, Yorkshire, East Midlands: to be notified.
4 In the rush of events which form the background to life today, both internationally and individually, it is all the more necessary to find space for the creative meaning of silence, to experience the quietness to wait upon God and make room for 'the still, small voice of calm'. We are here to help, and to share with all those who want to find 'the peace which passes all understanding'.
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