A pair of Christian retreat days for people affected by cancer are being run in the diocese by Revd Helen Jones, founder of the charity Firm Roots Cancer Support.

Revd Helen had cancer herself in 2010 and has worked for Macmillan and in NHS Cancer Services for the last 10 years. She is a curate at Holy Trinity Church, Huddersfield and also volunteers as a hospital chaplain.

“Our Firm Roots retreats are an opportunity to get away from the busy-ness of life and medical intervention, and to spend some time and space in God’s presence. Anyone affected by cancer either themselves, or supporting someone through it – either currently or in the past - is very welcome to join us,” Revd Helen said.

Supported by volunteers, retreat days begin at 10am with a short service to start the day. They includes an art workshop, a chance to share testimonies and encouragements with other people attending.

The days ends around 4pm, with a closing reflection and sung worship and people of any denomination are welcome to attend, as well as those exploring God and faith in their cancer journey.

“We do not charge for our retreat days, as we want the days to be a blessing for people, and we understand that finances are often tight when people are affected by cancer. However, if you felt able to make a donation for the running of future retreat days for other people to attend, then that would be welcome - though there is no obligation,” Revd Helen said.

The upcoming retreat days are called ‘The God Who Sees’ and the details are below:

Saturday, May 18, 2024, 10am to 4pm, Hollin House, Weetwood Avenue, Headingley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS16 5NG.

Saturday, July 13, 10am to 4pm, Sutton Coldfield Baptist Church, Trinity Hill, The Parade, Sutton Coldfield, near Birmingham, B72 1TA

Booking details are available here