Dear friends,
I am writing to share some important developments regarding the life of Epiphany House. In recent years, the trustees have been working to address the serious financial challenges facing the house, alongside a wider decline in the Christian conference/retreat centre market. Despite considerable efforts to generate additional income and to develop new initiatives at pace, it has become clear that the rate of change is insufficient to meet the rising costs associated with the operation of the house and the delivery of its services.
As a result, the trustees have had to take the difficult decision to pause operations at the end of July 2025. This “pause and reset” period will allow time for a full review and discernment of the best way forward. During this time, the trustees will explore all available options and, if possible, work towards creating the conditions for a potential reopening at some point in the coming months. Whilst we sincerely hope to find a sustainable path into the future, we are also realistic about the wider challenges facing Christian retreat centres across the country, many of which are finding their existing models increasingly difficult to sustain.
As a result of this necessary pause in operations, and because the future operational requirements of the house are currently uncertain, the trustees offered all eligible staff an enhanced voluntary redundancy package, which every individual chose to accept. We want to express our deep and heartfelt thanks to the staff team, who have given so much to the life of Epiphany House over many years. Their dedication, care, and hospitality have been at the heart of all that the house has offered, and we are profoundly grateful for all they have contributed.
Alongside this process, as some of you may already be aware, our Chief Executive Officer, Alan Wallace, has sadly stepped down as of the end of April in order to focus on his health. We are deeply grateful for all that Alan has contributed during his time with us. His energy, commitment, and leadership have been instrumental in helping Epiphany House through the past year.
Some limited activities may continue at Epiphany House, but for a time, most use of the building and its associated services are likely to be paused. We are committed to doing our best to honour as many existing commitments as possible and will be in touch with individuals about their bookings over the coming weeks. From 1 May to 31 August 2025, Daniel Mantell-Roberts will serve as Interim House Director. During this period, Daniel, together with the team, will be in contact with our key stakeholders and existing clients to discuss arrangements.
At this time, we are enormously grateful for your continued support, and we ask for your prayers for the trustees, the staff team, and all who know and love Epiphany House as we navigate this period of change.
With heartfelt thanks,
Deborah Mitchell
Chair of Trustees
Post expires on July 6th, 2025
