The clergy of the Ripon areas recently met for their first in-person study day since 2019.
The Bishop of Ripon, the Rt Revd Dr Helen-Ann Hartley, organised a ‘slow day’ for the clergy, giving them a chance to rest and learn together in a low-stakes environment.
The day was led by Br Clark Berge SSF, Franciscan monk and Guardian of Hilfield Friary in Dorset. 
Bishop Helen-Ann said: “Br Clark was for 10 years Minister General of the 1st Order Franciscans, and I met him on a couple of occasions whilst he was in New Zealand.
“Across the garden from my office in Hamilton there was an Anglican Friary.
“In many ways the Franciscan community there held and supported me during my early days and months as a bishop.
“Br Clark shared his story and his learned reflections on self-care, and how we live as creaturely beings in tune with our world.
“With space to reflect and share together after so long apart, it was a day filled with conversation, listening and laughter.
“The day was held in Bolton Abbey, and concluded with a Eucharist in Bolton Priory church.”