A Sacred Pause: The Community of St Anselm Reflects on Its Next Chapter

In the heart of Lambeth Palace, a quiet revolution began ten years ago under the leadership of former Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby. What started as a visionary experiment in monastic living birthed the Community of St Anselm, a unique spiritual enclave where Christians from around the globe came to immerse themselves in prayer, worship, and the transformative love of God. Now, a decade on, this vibrant community of over 200 members finds itself in a sacred pause—a time of discernment, listening, and leaning on God as it contemplates its future.

A Year in God’s Time

When Justin Welby launched the Community of St Anselm, his vision was rooted in the ancient Benedictine rhythm of life, modeled after the 11th-century monk and scholar Anselm. Members would commit to a “year in God’s time,” immersing themselves in a spiritual rhythm of prayer, study, and service. For some, this meant living within the hallowed halls of Lambeth Palace; for others, it meant balancing the demands of their daily lives while actively participating in the community’s practices.

The experience has been described by many as life-changing. Shannon Preston, one of the first members and now the community’s chaplain, shares:
“The exposure to the love of God is truly life transforming.”

This sacred rhythm extended beyond the walls of the palace, uniting people from diverse denominations, professions, and nations. It was a profound experiment in living as one body in Christ, demonstrating the beauty of unity in diversity.

A Sacred Pause

Last September, the community embarked on a year of discernment—a time to pause, reflect, and listen to God. This moment of introspection coincided with the announcement of Justin Welby’s resignation as Archbishop of Canterbury, an event that has brought a sense of somber reflection to Lambeth Palace.

Shannon Preston speaks candidly about the atmosphere:
“There is uncertainty, and it makes us lean more onto God. We know God is faithful, and so we return to prayer and bring our questions as well to Him.”

The community’s rhythm of prayer remains unbroken, a steady heartbeat of faith amidst the questions. While they are not recruiting new members this year, Rev Preston shares that the next few months will shape the future of this extraordinary community.

The Transforming Power of Silence

Central to the community’s spiritual practice is the seven-day silent retreat—a countercultural invitation to disconnect from the noise of the world and encounter the whisper of God. For members, these moments of silence are not merely an escape but a profound exposure to divine love and direction.

“We follow a rhythm of prayer, study, and service in the community,” Rev Preston explains. “It’s about listening deeply to God and one another.”

This sacred rhythm is now shaping their collective discernment.

Faith in the Unknown

As the Community of St Anselm navigates this season of change, one truth anchors them: God’s faithfulness endures. Change, as Rev Preston notes, is inevitable. Yet it is also an opportunity for renewal and deeper trust in God’s leading.

For the wider Church and the world, the story of the Community of St Anselm is a testimony to the enduring power of prayer and the beauty of Christian unity. It reminds us that even in uncertainty, we can trust God to guide us toward a future filled with purpose and promise.

As they listen for God’s voice, may their journey inspire us all to embrace the sacred pauses in our own lives—to step back, discern, and trust in the One who holds the future.

A Call to Reflection

In this season of waiting, let us pray for the Community of St Anselm: that they may hear God’s voice clearly, lean into His faithfulness, and step boldly into the next chapter of their remarkable story.

Let us also reflect on our own lives:

• How often do we pause to listen to God?
• Are we willing to embrace uncertainty as an opportunity for deeper trust?

May we, too, find moments of stillness to hear the whisper of God and be transformed by His love.

“Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10