On Saturday, I took a train to London to attend Summit 2026 at St Patrick’s church in Soho. Centred around the theme of Freedom of Heart: Monastic Wisdom for Everyday Life, and presented a rich lineup of talks, reflections, and Q&As across topics like hope, inner freedom, and applying spiritual principles to active life in the world.

The plenary speakers began the day with two morning presentations. We heard from Bishop Erik Varden—who recently delivered the Lenten Spiritual Exercises for Pope Leo XIV in Rome—and Fr Jacques Philippe, a cheerful, popular author of books on prayer who draws deeply from the Carmelite tradition. Among the afternoon sessions were talks by two sharp and energetic Dominican nuns, Sr Carino Hodder and Sr Lucy Cahill, whose candid approach to the Rule of St Augustine was entertaining and inspiring. Archbishop Richard Moth was also in attendance for part of the day.

Although I originally decided to attend out of simple curiosity, it was a joy to encounter and connect with new people over coffee or a meal, and to have a chance to chat with Bishop Varden — who attended Atlantic College in Llantwit Major as a teenager.

Leaving early to catch a train, I made my way through the hot city streets and busy Underground stations on my way to Paddington Station. On arrival, I took some time to sit down and reflect with a refreshing and unsweetened iced green tea. An enjoyable day.