The Churchwardens of St James in Slaithwaite have been regularly taking a small group to Parcevall Hall in Appletreewick. This year, Tim and Barbara Swift extended the invitation to our sisters and brothers at St Bartholomew’s Church in Marsden. Alison Gibson told me, on her return, that it was “like paradise”. I asked Alison for a few words for the website and this is her story…
Alison Gibson writes…
When we decided to join some members of St Bartholomew’s and St James’ Church to visit Parcevall Hall, Alison Fisher and I thought that we were going on a retreat and were a little disappointed to find that there was no itinerary or set programme. However, I really don’t have enough words to describe the wonderful three days we spent at one of the most beautiful, peaceful, spiritual places I have ever been to.
The hall itself is like taking a step back in time with its huge oak doors and beamed walls and ceilings. I really expected to see Miss Marple sat knitting in one of the comfy armchairs. The grounds are stunning with formal gardens, natural woodland, dells, water features, and hidden benches where you can sit in contemplation and admire Gods wonderful creation.
Our little group got on well together, we joined other guests and local residents for a communion service in the lovely little chapel and we spent lots of time enjoying the wonderful food, sharing discussions about anything and everything, playing board games and listening to Tim’s jokes. Everyone commented on the peacefulness which for me seemed to slow down time, wash away all stresses and gave me the room to really feel that God was around us and beside us.
Sometimes we try to do and be so much that we don’t have the time to be still and be with God. Parcevall Hall is most definitely a place where you will find that time and space to feel the presence of our loving God, and I hope it won’t be long before I can pay another visit to this special place.
Further information: Parcevall Hall website and photographs