A reminder that registrations are open for this summer’s All-Age Gathering for Quakers across Europe & the Middle East; Maison Quaker in Congénies, France is offering creative retreats this spring; and Centre Quaker International in Paris are looking for Resident Friends.
All-Age Gathering – 8-15 August 2026
Europe & Middle East Young Friends and FWCC Europe & Middle East Section invite you to our All Age Gathering on the 8-15 August 2026 near Cologne in Germany. This is a rare opportunity to connect with Friends from Europe & the Middle East – and beyond – building community through worship, discussion and play. Non-Quaker family members are also welcome to join us.
The gathering’s theme is The River of Life: an all age gathering. Each day will be an opportunity to explore a different stage of life from birth, youth, middle age, old age through to preparing for death.
The gathering will be held at at Haus Altenberg, where there are a variety of bedroom sizes suitable for families, groups and individuals. Haus Altenberg is located in a beautiful valley with woodland walks and bikes to hire close by. It is one hour from Cologne by public transport.
Retreats at Maison Quaker
Maison Quaker is in the village of Congénies in the Languedoc region of the south of France. They are hosting three English-language retreats this year:
- Spring Art Retreat with Kate Hale: April 12 – 17, 2026
- Photography Workshop with John Arnison: May 10 – 15, 2026
- Memoir Writing Worskhop with Kim Hope: October 11 – 16, 2026 (details tbc)
They are also hosting a French-language Quaker Family Week: July 13 – 19, 2026.
Contact the centre for more information at centre.quaker.congenies@gmail.com
Resident Friends at the Centre Quaker International
The Centre Quaker International is looking for a resident Friend or Friends for their Centre Quaker on the outskirts of Paris. The house was purchased in 2024 and has only been in existence as a Quaker Centre for about 18 months. during that time they have had a resident Friend, who after two years is due to finish his term this Summer. Ideally they are looking for a couple.
You can read more information on the France Yearly Meeting website. It is in French as prospective candidates need to speak French.