What is the Renovaré Reading Group?
The Renovaré Reading Group is an intentional opportunity to read a book in the company of others. In a world filled with distractions and constant demands on our attention, many of us struggle to make time for reading, let alone finish a book.
Books can be powerful catalysts for spiritual growth. They expand our perspectives, deepen our empathy, and introduce us to new ideas. They offer space for reflection, encourage us to slow down, and help us engage more meaningfully with both our inner lives and the people around us.
Meeting over several weeks, the Renovaré Reading Group provides accountability, community, and a shared journey as we explore a book together, learning from both the text and one another.
The book:
Richard J. Foster, founder of Renovaré, is widely regarded as one of the most influential writers on Christian spirituality. His book Sanctuary of the Soul is a brief yet profound introduction to meditative prayer.
Drawing on the wisdom of the great mothers and fathers of the faith, alongside stories from his own encounters with God, Foster explores the richness of quieting the mind and heart so that we can listen more attentively and respond more faithfully to God's voice.
Written with remarkable clarity and warmth, the book combines biblical teaching with practical guidance, offering step-by-step help for anyone who wants to begin, or deepen, a practice of meditative prayer.
The details:
This six-session reading group runs from 3/4 September to 15/16 October, with a break during the week of 24 /25th September.
You can join via Zoom on either Thursday evenings (7:30–8:45pm) or Friday mornings (9:30–10:45am). If needed, you are welcome to move between the two groups from week to week.
Cost: £30 for the full course (which helps cover hosting and administration costs). Please contact us if cost is prohibitive - we will be glad to offer free spaces if required.
Participants will need to purchase their own copy of Sanctuary of the Soul.
Each week, you will read approximately 20 pages and then gather with the group to reflect on the reading, discuss key themes, and explore points of interest together.
Following each session, you will receive a follow-up email containing a summary of the discussion and links to optional resources for further exploration.
How do I book?
To reserve your place, please email [email protected] and indicate whether you would like to join the Thursday evening or Friday morning group.
Once payment has been received through our Stewardship account, we will confirm your place and send you:
- A 6-week Reading Plan
- A How to Read guide, offering practical tips for reflective reading
- Joining instructions and the Zoom link
If you have any questions or would like further information, please contact [email protected]