Nijkleaster began in 2012 as a pioneering movement seeking new paths for faith and spirituality. As such, Nijkleaster is part of the global new monasticism movement, which seeks to apply the wisdom of monastic life to modern-day living. The church in Jorwert served as the base for the first 10 years. In 2023, a second center was added: Klooster Westerhûs, not far from there. During Pentecost in 2023, a new monastic community was formed (from the former Protestant congregation and the former Nijkleaster foundation), 17 members took their monastic vows, and Westerhûs Monastery was opened. A unique event in the Frisian countryside. More information about the monastics can be found via this link.
Over the course of a 10-year pioneering period, the vision and mission were developed step by step and eventually put into writing. You can download and read the brochure below:
COME INTO THE CIRCLE
We cordially invite you to join the circle as well. In the document 'The Circle of Nijkleaster' there are now five ways to join as a participant. It is possible to become donor, friend, member, kleasterling external (non-resident of Klooster Westerhûs) and kleasterling internal (resident Klooster Westerhûs). With each way or circle of participation we also ask for a commitment in money and/or in time. This is not a must, but we do encourage participants to do so.
STIPER (DONATEUR) OF NIJKLEASTER
As a stiper you support Nijkleaster in terms of mienskip and spirituality. We encourage you to participate at least once a year in an activity of Nijkleaster and to donate at least € 50 per year.
FREON (FRIEND) OF NIJKLEASTER
As a Freon of Nijkleaster, you support Nijkleaster in terms of community and spirituality. We encourage you to participate in an activity at least once a month, either as a participant or as a volunteer. We also encourage you to donate at least €150 per year to
.
MEMBER OF NIJKLEASTER
As a member of Nijkleaster, you take a step further into the circle. We encourage you to live according to the spirituality of the Nijkleaster circle and, if possible, to participate in an activity at least once a week, either as a participant or as a volunteer. We also ask that you donate at least €250 per
year.
In the image belonging to the Circle of Nijkleaster you will also find the center of our spirituality: making space for God, to become human.
KLEASTERLING (non-resident of KlOOSTER WESTERHÛS)
As a kleasterling you live according to the spirituality of the circle of Nijkleaster. A kleasterling "outside the gate" lives this spirituality at home, is part of the mienskip of kleasterling at Klooster Westerhûs and carries the work of Nijkleaster. You are available at least one half day each week for the work of Nijkleaster. You donate 10% of your net income and/or of your time to Nijkleaster (or to another religious or social cause in your own local context).
KLEASTERLING (RESIDENT OF WESTERHÛS MONASTERY)
As a kleasterling, you live according to the spirituality of the Nijkleaster community. A kleasterling “within the gates” lives out this spirituality at Westerhûs Monastery, is part of the community of kleasterlings at Westerhûs Monastery, and supports the work of Nijkleaster. You pay rent for the living space at
and you are available for part of each day to support the work of Nijkleaster. A monastic “within the gate” thus dedicates a significant portion of his or her life to Nijkleaster. You may live “within the gate” at
as long as you uphold and carry out the mission of Nijkleaster in both substance and practice.
If you'd like to learn more about Kleasterlingen, please send an email to the coordinator: info@nijkleaster.frl