The Rock – The Life of Simon Peter
From Monday 26th to Wednesday 28th October, members of the Southern Diocese gathered at Highgate House near Northampton for a three day retreat exploring the life of Simon Peter. Under the theme “The Rock – The Life of Simon Peter”, the retreat followed three stages in Peter’s journey: Grounded, Growing and Going. Each day included a key verse to guide reflection and worship.
Day 1: Grounded
The opening day took its theme from Jesus’ words to Peter: “You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church” – Matthew 16:18.
The sessions explored Peter’s call and the foundations of his faith:
- Called from the Shire — From Ordinary to Chosen, led by the Rev’d Ambrose Oliver
- Building a Firm Foundation, led by the Rev’d Eric Fenwick. This session included Lego building (see images below).
On Monday evening, participants gathered for a Songs of Praise, sharing in worship through much-loved hymns and songs.
Day 2: Growing
Tuesday’s theme, Growing, centred on Jesus’ charge to Peter: “Feed my sheep” – John 21:17.
The sessions considered Peter’s restoration, ministry and service:
- Walking on Water, led by Mr Colin Mills
- Restored for Purpose — Breakfast on the Beach, led by the Rev’d Dr John Deane-O’Keeffe
- Filled with the Spirit — Peter at Pentecost, led by the Rev’d Gerald Kirsch
The evening session, “My Life is Built On?”, invited everyone to bring an item representing something important in their life.
Day 3: Going
The final day looked outward to the call to witness: “Go into all the world and preach the gospel” – Mark 16:15.
The morning sessions, Peter the Shepherd, led by Mr Daniel Booth, From Fisherman to Faithful Witness, led by the Rev’d Canon Dr Mark Spiers, focussed on challenging those in attendance to take the message from the retreat to their local congregations and communities.
The retreat concluded with Holy Communion, with the theme, From Simon to Peter, led by the Right Rev’d Dr Paul Hunt, Bishop of the Southern Diocese.
Throughout the retreat, good food and fellowship was had by all. Together, the sessions traced Peter’s journey from an ordinary fisherman to a restored disciple and faithful witness, and invited participants to consider how they, too, might be grounded in Christ, grow in faith and go out in service.
