Weekly Christian meditation: Wednesdays 11 am – noon
Silence is really absolutely necessary for the human spirit if it really is to thrive, and not only just to thrive, but to be creative, to have a creative response to life, to our environment, to friends. Because the silence gives our spirit room to breathe, room to be … And the wonder of it is that in that experience, you are completely free. John Main Word into Silence
Pilgrim has been home to an ecumenical Christian meditation group for over eight years. Each week, we read a teaching or poem from the contemplative tradition and then sit in silence for 30 minutes before closing with a gentle conversation. The group is part of the World Community for Christian Meditation and most members repeat a silent mantra (sacred word) while meditating.
Newcomers are warmly welcomed, and you will be supported and encouraged in your practice. Please email Ros for more information at pilgrimunitingyarraville@gmail.com
Contemplative photography group: First Sunday of each month at 2 pm
To prepare ourselves to see, we dissolve our thoughts into our sense of being fully present in the only moment that we have, the one that is right now. All other moments have ceased, or have not yet happened. This is all we have. Julie Du Bose
This group meets monthly to practise a form of photography that is less about technical skill and much more about spiritual inquiry and reflection. We start by readying ourselves to receive images as a gift, rather than ‘taking’ or ‘shooting’ photos. Between gatherings, members post photos on a private WhatsApp group. Anyone can enjoy this practice and most of us use the cameras on our mobile phones. Some members use their photos as the basis for prayer, using Visio Divina.
If you would like to join us, please send a message via pilgrimunitingyarraville@gmail.com and Barry will respond to you.
Slow walks (various Sundays)
Pilgrim introduced slow Sunday afternoon walks in late 2023 to encourage members and friends to enter into a reflective Sabbath. We walk slowly so as to celebrate and give gratitude for God’s creation (this is not about getting fit with brisk walking!). Slow walks are designed to be inclusive for older members and those with mobility challenges. Walks are on hold during winter.
A Quiet Day by the sea – next date Saturday 27 June 2026
Ros Harris from Pilgrim co-leads an annual silent retreat at St Joseph’s by the Sea in Williamstown. Our April gathering last year was a spacious time of stillness, silence and simplicity in beautiful surroundings, attended by 26 people from Pilgrim and beyond. If you would like to be added to the mailing list for the 2026 gathering, please email Ros at pilgrimunitingyarraville@gmail.com
Taize at Seddon Uniting Church: Last Sunday of the month at 7 pm (Cnr Gamon and Mackay Streets)
Pilgrim has a longstanding relationship with our friends at Seddon Uniting Church. Members of both congregations share a commitment to contemplative practice as a way of deepening our relationship with God. On the last Sunday of each month, Seddon holds a gentle 45 minute Taize service, followed by a light supper. The service is marked by prayer, song (chant) and silence. All are welcome. Please note that the first gathering for 2026 will be on 22 February.