The House of Prayer
Inspired by Fr Anthony Receveur (1750-1804), the founder of the Sisters of the Christian Retreat, Sr Melanie Kingston established the House of Prayer in March 1993. Today, the House of Prayer is led by a community of staff, volunteers, and friends, who carry out the spirit and vision of the Christian Retreat through their work and ministry.
‘One can never do enough to help people to reflect; it is absolutely essential in today’s world.’
Fr. Anthony Receveur
Our Vision
Our aim is to help people to explore and deepen their relationship with God through prayer, meditation, and retreat.
The House of Prayer offers a breathing space and everything needed for a retreat. We offer to others a way of nurturing their relationship with God through prayer, meditation, spiritual retreats, and Christian education. The House of Prayer is ecumenical and welcomes Christians of all denominations and people of good will.
Inspired by God’s love and in the spirit of the Christian Retreat, we endeavour to:
hold prayer, retreat and spiritual accompaniment at the heart of our lives and our ministry;
build community and work together in a spirit of collaboration and co-operation;
give a warm welcome, generous hospitality and care to all who come to the House of Prayer;
create space conducive to prayer, silent meditation and reflection;
be kind and compassionate, honouring the worth and dignity of every person;
do our part to nurture and protect the earth and to care for our ‘common home’;
uphold safe, ethical and best practice in all areas of our work.
‘I will make them joyful in my house of prayer and I will welcome them for my house will be called a house of prayer for all the peoples.’ Isaiah 56:7
