A new dispersed community has found a spiritual home at Whalley Abbey. Having sought permission, the community adopts the name of something that had its beginnings in the diocese but has not been active recently: The Vine Community. The name and biblical image reflect our desire to abide in Christ and belong together, to grow and bear fruit. We hold monthly meetings and you will find information about these on the events page. Everyone is welcome to explore what level of engagement would be suitable for them.

Aims

Support each other in deepening our life of prayer and discipleship in our own context
Grow towards living in the rhythm of a Rule of Life
Link with the resident community and activities at Whalley Abbey as the physical focal point
Seek inspiration in the Benedictine/Cistercian heritage of Whalley Abbey

Activities

• Annual:
  Service of Commitment for those who want to keep the Rule of Life
  Working retreat
  Spiritual retreat
  

• Monthly:
  Community meetings with input, discussion, prayer and a meal
  The meetins usually take place on the second Sunday of the month at 4 pm. The next meetings are on 10 November and 8 December 2024.
  

• Worship:
  Daily prayer pattern at Whalley Abbey, in person and streamed online (coming soon)
  Eucharist three times a week
  

• Other:
  Whalley Abbey retreat and quiet day programme, incl. guided silent retreats
  Communications through the Grape Vine WhatsApp group and Facebook