RYDAL HALL. © Steven Barber Photography Ltd
RYDAL HALL. © Steven Barber Photography Ltd
Supporters of the Lake District’s Christian retreat centre and international community will gather at Rydal this week for their annual meeting.
The Friends of Rydal Hall come from all over Britain to provide practical and financial help, as well as being ambassadors for the work done at the remarkable centre, owned by the Diocese of Carlisle.
And they are looking for more “Friends” to join them as volunteers.
Rydal Hall, one of the most spectacular buildings in the Lakes and set in acres of formal Edwardian gardens designed by Thomas Mawson, is a conference and retreat centre as well as offering holiday accommodation to individuals and families.
It is staffed by an international community from across the globe, and one recent project organised by the Friends was to provide winter clothes for young people arriving from hotter countries. “This kind of practical support is immensely valued,” said general manager the Rev Jonathon Green.
“The Friends provide practical and financial help to foster the wellbeing of the community, and by acting as ambassadors they make others aware of the work and ministry here.”
Rydal Hall has a Christian ethos which underpins the way it works, though it provides welcome and hospitality for any groups and individuals.
“It’s a place of beauty and peace,” said Mr Green. “It is supremely about relationships which have formed lasting friendships. Many of the Friends visit regularly and have come to love the distinctive spirituality of the Hall.”
The three day meeting will concentrate this year on ecological issues, including the on-site hydro electric scheme which is due to be completed shortly.
Anyone interested in joining the Friends can call 015394 32050 or use the link on the website http://www.rydalhall.org.uk
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