‘Many guests are in need of succour and a gentle holding.’

Less known than some Quaker venues, Claridge House still has an important role says Lesley Evans

'We are trusting in the peace, wisdom and compassion of that which is in all things and that which all things are in.' | Photo: courtesy of Claridge House.

Unlike Woodbrooke or Swarthmoor Hall, Claridge House is not so well known among Friends. The house was bought by the Friends Fellowship of Healing in 1954 to be a place of healing, rest and renewal for those in need of physical, emotional and spiritual recovery – peaceful, accepting and nurturing. I had only vaguely heard of it, through adverts in the Friend, before I moved to nearby Lingfield and was offered the role of Friend in Residence. I stayed four months. From that time I have learned about the many people who have benefitted from it, from those on retreats, attending courses (on such themes as Chinese brush painting, yoga for wellbeing/peace, meditation, the healing power of sound, singing, tai chi and harp workshops), or staying for B&B.

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