On Saturday 10 October, Julian Meetings held an Open Council gathering on Zoom. It was encouraging to hear from people involved in groups across the country, each with their own experiences of contemplative prayer. Our thanks to everyone who joined the meeting and to the nine people who sent written reflections beforehand.
After introductions, we shared ten minutes of silence. It was a fitting beginning to an open conversation about what our meetings mean to us and how the Julian Meetings network might continue to support them.
What sustains our meetings
A consistent theme emerged from the reports and discussion: alongside the opportunity to pray in silence, people value the welcome, friendship and sense of belonging that grow within a group. Some meetings have continued for decades; others are relatively new. Whether a group consists of a handful of people or somewhat more, its simple, shared practice matters.
The variety of arrangements was striking. Some people meet in churches or homes, some join by Zoom, and others keep silence at an agreed time while remaining in touch through WhatsApp or email. Online groups can now welcome people living far from their original meeting place, including those who cannot easily travel. At the same time, the value of face-to-face fellowship was warmly affirmed.
Challenges, welcome and continuity
Participants spoke openly about small or changing numbers, the loss of longstanding members, difficulties finding people willing to lead, and meeting times that do not suit everyone. There were different views about how best to welcome younger or working-age people, but a shared interest in helping others discover contemplative prayer and in supporting groups to continue.
We also heard how ordinary personal invitations, good local relationships and flexible arrangements can make a difference. There is no single format that will suit every group.
Helping people find a meeting
There was lively discussion about how people find and access Julian Meetings. While some participants reported difficulties locating meetings or information online, it became apparent that several of the facilities being suggested already exist. The website includes a meeting finder identifying in-person, online and hybrid meetings, and Julian Meetings maintains an established presence on social media, including Facebook. In some instances, difficulties arose from unfamiliarity with these resources or searching under an incorrect name, rather than an absence of information. Nevertheless, the discussion highlighted opportunities to make existing information more visible and accessible, including clearer signposting of online meetings, a possible calendar organised by day and time, and greater use of church networks and personal recommendations.
The writings and example of Julian of Norwich were also discussed. However, an important distinction was made between the organisation’s name and its purpose. Hilary Wakeman established Julian Meetings to encourage and support the practice of Christian contemplative prayer, rather than to promote the study or teachings of Julian of Norwich specifically. Although her name provides a historical and spiritual association, the organisation is not a Julian of Norwich study society, nor does participation require any particular interest in her writings. Individual groups may choose to draw on her example, but the central purpose remains the encouragement and shared practice of Christian contemplative prayer.
Looking ahead
Ian Bailey gave a brief financial update and thanked those whose donations support Julian Meetings. Participants also considered the possibilities of further Open Council conversations and regional or online gatherings. These were suggestions for consideration, rather than decisions taken at the meeting.
The Admin Group will reflect on the contributions and consider what practical steps may be possible. In the meantime, thank you again for the openness, kindness and thoughtful participation shown during the afternoon — and to all those who quietly sustain Julian Meetings throughout the year.
© Ian Beers and Admin Group.
Some people wrote about their groups, but asked that they not be identifiable if the report were published. I intend to publish anonymised contributions in a future blog.
©Blog Editor.
The Julian Meetings support in-person and online groups around the country. We make teaching on Contemplative Prayer and Meditation as easily and widely accessible as we can. Articles and reviews express the views only of their respective authors.
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