A Quiet Place - By Mark Chadwick

I find it hard to make time with God.

Between work, kids, school runs, clubs, dinner, bedtime… and then somehow doing it all again the next day, by the time evening comes I’m exhausted. My willpower is gone. I know what usually happens next: a bit of doom-scrolling, half an hour of TV — anything that feels easy. I tell myself "I’ll pray tomorrow."

The frustrating thing is, I know that time with God is what actually restores me. Jesus says, “I am the vine; remain in me and you will bear much fruit.” Healing, rest, perspective, fruitfulness — they all flow from staying close to Him. But knowing that doesn’t magically create space in a busy life.

So instead of relying on willpower, I’ve realised I need something else: a quiet place.

Not silence for the sake of it, and not another thing to achieve. Just a simple, intentional space where distractions are put down, our focus is lifted to God, and we’re allowed to rest in His presence. A place that feels calm and safe. A place where we’re shaped not just individually, but together as a community.

That’s the heart behind A Quiet Place — a midweek evening gathering where we slow down and make room for God. There’s gentle acoustic worship, time in Scripture (sometimes even using audio to help us listen), and extended silence — at least ten minutes — with soft music in the background. Phones are put aside. Bibles are open. Cushions are out. Nothing flashy. Nothing rushed.

It’s not about doing more. It’s about creating space to remain.

We’re starting with our first Quiet Place on Thursday 5th March, 7:30–9:30pm, and we’ll do it once each school term. If, like me, you’re tired of ending the day empty when you long to be restored, this is an invitation.

Come as you are. Sit. Breathe. Be with God.

Mark Chadwick