HELEN Stanton has been appointed as the new warden for Holland House, the retreat and conference centre based in Cropthorne.
She is formerly an Anglican Tutor in Ethics, Doctrine and Spirituality at Queen’s Theological College in Birmingham.
As warden, Helen will play a key role in shaping the future life and ministry of the house, which attracts both day and overnight visitors.
“I have visited Holland House many times over the last 20 years. It is an incredibly beautiful place which offers excellent hospitality in many ways,” she said. “I have worked in the Anglican Church my whole life and have a real passion for prayer and spirituality, which I plan to bring to this role.
“I am looking forward to helping Holland House be a home from home for people who may be feeling tired and stressed and giving people from all faiths and traditions an opportunity to develop their own spirituality.
“I will be working alongside a talented group of people and continuing to develop the retreat and conference centre from an already strong place.”
She is planning to reintroduce weekly eucharist services and house prayers and will be developing a varied programme, including days based on her own interests around contemplative prayer and the visual arts.
Chair of the Board of Trustees, Paul West, said: “She brings with her many years of practical experience of teaching and of leading retreats, which we’re sure she will apply to good effect.
“Helen joins us at a perfect time to further broaden and diversify our visitor base, whilst retaining our core value of being a Christian house of welcome.”
