Autumn Sabbatical
2026-10-12 17:00 - 2026-11-26 10:00 UTC | St Mary’s Monastery, Hatton Road, Kinnoull, PH2 7BP
Seven-Week Residential Programme at Kinnoull Monastery

October 12 @ 5:00 PM – November 26 @ 10:00 AM

This seven-week fully residential programme offers a profound opportunity for prayer, study, reflection, and personal renewal within the peaceful and contemplative setting of Kinnoull Monastery, overlooking the River Tay in Perth. Rooted in the spiritual tradition of the Church and attentive to the needs of the contemporary world, the programme is designed for those engaged in ministry, formation, or personal discernment.

Participants live as a residential community, sharing daily prayer, meals, learning, and silence. Each week focuses on a distinct theological or pastoral theme, allowing time for deep engagement, guided reflection, and integration into personal and ministerial life.

Flexible Participation

While the full seven-week residential experience is encouraged, non–full-time participants are welcome to attend individual one-week standalone courses.Standalone participants arrive Sunday evening and depart Thursday after lunch.Further details and practical information are available on request.

Weekly Themes (2026)

Self-esteem and the Ministry of Healing in the Church Today12th–16th October 2026An exploration of human dignity, woundedness, and healing, examining how the Church accompanies individuals and communities toward wholeness.

Transition of Life19th–23rd October 2026Reflecting on life’s key transitions—loss, change, vocation, and growth—this week offers theological and pastoral tools for navigating change with faith and hope.

“Go, Rebuild My Church” – The Vision of Pope Francis and Laudato Si’26th October – 30th October 2026A study of Pope Francis’ call to renewal, ecological conversion, and social responsibility, rooted in Gospel values and the cry of the poor and the earth.

Catholic Moral Reasoning3rd-7th November 2026An introduction to the principles and practice of Catholic moral theology, engaging contemporary ethical questions with clarity, compassion, and tradition.

Jonah and Jesus10th-14th November 2026A rich biblical exploration drawing connections between the story of Jonah and the life and mission of Jesus, with reflections on mercy, conversion, and mission.

This programme offers a rare chance to step away from daily pressures, deepen theological understanding, and renew one’s sense of calling in a setting shaped by prayer, beauty, and community life.

Fully residential in the beautiful setting of Kinnoull Monastery.

Participants in the Spring/Summer Sabbatical will also have the opportunity to journey to the sacred island of Iona, a place of pilgrimage and prayer for over fourteen centuries. It was here that Columba established his monastic community, from which the Christian faith spread across Scotland and beyond. Walking in the footsteps of Columba and the Celtic saints, participants will be invited to reflect on a tradition rooted in simplicity, hospitality, and a deep reverence for God’s presence in creation.

Please email information@kinnoullmonastery.co.uk for costs
