'Eremos' is Greek for 'wilderness' or 'desert place'. Begun in 1982 in Sydney, Eremos retreats were a major focus of our early days. In entering the 'wilderness' or 'desert', we discover what is most essential to us, who we truly are and what we are called to be by our God.
Eremos reminds people that spiritual matters are central to who we are. We encourage dialogue among Christians of all backgrounds including voices of those outside of the Church structures who expand and enliven the dialogue. This community of voices is a unique organisation. It builds bridges between diverse people. It finds common grounds for relating.
Our magazine, EREMOS, is published quarterly with articles on a wide range of topics, artwork, poetry, reflections, book reviews and notices of events and conferences. We also have a book discussion group scheme (over 40 studies available for hire by groups or individuals). We welcome people of all beliefs - what we share in common is the desire to continually deepen our connection with God, the world and one another.
Eremos Institute is an ecumenical association with its roots in Christianity, offering a forum and support for individuals and communities to explore, express and deepen their spirituality within an Australian context.
The work of Eremos is guided by elected members who comprise the Council. The current Council were elected at the AGM on 8th November 2009. At that meeting, members expressed their special thanks to Chris Albany - outgoing Treasurer, Rob Brennan - outgoing Chairperson and Jenny Johnston - outgoing Secretary, for their many years of faithful stewardship and service to Eremos.
Current Council members are:
Kate Scholl (Chair)
Rod Pattenden (Vice-Chair and Events Committee Chair)
Anne Bailey (Membership, Events and Development Coordinator)
Sue Emeleus (Groups Coordinator)
Robert Leighton Jones (Minutes Secretary)
Walter Mason (appointed 10 May, 2010)
Janet O'Sullivan (Retreats Coordinator)
Jacquie Pryor (Eremos Magazine Editor)
Judy Seccombe (Books for Groups Coordinator)
Malcolm Stephenson (Treasurer)
Further information about these Council members can be read in the attached PDF.
Front row (LtoR): Sue Emeleus, Kate Scholl, Malcolm Stephenson & Anne Bailey
