From left: Revd Margaret Saville, Revd Simon Bone, Bishop Chris, Revd Bridget Guzek, Nigel Guzek, Ben Evans and Revd Peter Knibbs.

THERE may have been gale-force winds and blustery winds outside on Saturday 1 February, but inside the Way 2 Community House at St Stithians there was a sense of calm as Bishop Chris blessed the Old Vicarage as it took on its new guise as a place of spiritual refreshment and hospitality.

The house comprises a chapel, a community room, two bedrooms for residents and the office for the Eight Saints Cluster of parishes. It is being run by the resident wardens, Nigel and Revd Bridget Guzek, with the aim of providing space and support for those considering ordination to live in the community whilst they explore their calling.

There are plans too to form a ‘dispersed community’ in the wider area, and to offer a tranquil environment in which parish groups – or gatherings from the wider diocese – can meet.

Over 30 people squeezed into the house as Bishop Chris first led a short session of Morning Prayer for the Epiphany Season before visiting the main rooms to bless their use. Individual prayers were offered too, appropriate to the nature of each space.

Commenting after the opening, Nigel and Bridget said: “It is a privilege to be involved at the beginning of such an innovative project. We are excited by all the possibilities that the Way 2 initiative opens up, and overwhelmed by the response today.”

The Way 2 Community House is available for Lent groups, Way of Life courses, contemplative/meditation groups, quiet days, short-term retreats, or simply ‘getting away from it all’ for a few days.

Priority will be given to those people considering vocation to the priesthood or to religious life. They will be offered parish experience as appropriate, as well as space and support to explore their spiritual life and formation in ministry, in consultation with the Diocesan Director of Ordinands.

For further information, contact way2.stithians@gmail.com or call 01209 860803.