Chine McDonald leads a quiet day on the myth of divine motherhood

For 2,000 years, the Virgin Mary has been depicted throughout art, literature and culture as symbolising the perfect mother: chaste, beautiful, meek, mild and white. These supposed virtues and symbols have shaped not just Christianity but wider popular culture; and have contributed to harmful views about motherhood and what it is to be a woman. This retreat will offer a time for reflection on the impacts of these tropes on us, and attempt to create a space to exhale; freeing ourselves from the burden of perfection.

Chine is Director of Theos, the religion and society think tank. She was previously Head of Public Engagement at Christian Aid and spent two decades working in journalism, media and communications across faith, media and international development. She also speaks and writes regularly on issues of race, faith and gender, and is the author of ‘God is not a white man: and other revelations’ (Hodder & Stoughton, May 2021). Chine is a regular writer, broadcaster, and media commentator, including regularly presenting the BBC’s Thought for the Day on Radio 4’s Today programme and appearing on BBC Sunday Morning Live. Chine is vice–chair of Greenbelt Festival and a trustee of Christian Aid. She studied Theology and Religious Studies at Cambridge University. Her upcoming book Unmaking Mary: The Myth of Divine Motherhood will be published by Hodder & Stoughton in early 2025.

W e look forward to welcoming you to our urban oasis. The day will include welcome coffee and pastries, lunch and an afternoon pot of tea and cake. Or maybe book to stay overnight in one of our lovely en-suite bedrooms and make the most of taking some time aside.

Any non-chargeable cancellations should be made at least 7 days prior to the day of arrival. A 100% cancellation fee will be made for any late cancellations or non-arrivals.

Kindly note that any refunds will exclude Eventbrite and or administration fees.

Host or Publisher The Royal Foundation of St Katharine