A spiritual caregiver recently visited us and wrote down her experiences as follows:
Silence, reflection, and connection. It was all there in a special way. In the weeks following the retreat, it stayed with me. What makes this such a special place and how can you describe the atmosphere to someone else? That is not easy. I think the rhythm of monastic life plays a major role in that, along with the way everything is organized. What felt very natural was arriving with coffee and tea, an accessible and warm welcome. Followed by the explanation, seeing your room, and immediately feeling included in the rhythm of monastic life. The late afternoon service was moving because of the vulnerability people showed when naming those things in life that needed attention. Many candles were lit. To me, that service set the tone for an atmosphere of trust and safety among people. The mutual connection felt very strong. That was also the case in other services, but especially in that first service, it created the right foundation for the days and activities that followed. The rhythm of the monastery, the silence, and the reflection were in ample supply and deeply moving. Waking up physically, meditating, starting the day together in silence. I experienced it all as very special. And I heard from several people how remarkable it is that almost everything is carried out by volunteers. In a church community you are used to that, but through all the reactions you realize once again that it is not something to be taken for granted. The place, the people, the atmosphere, the silence, the reflection, and the connection truly live up to expectations. And you don't even notice all the behind-the-scenes organization when you are a guest. I found that special too. The monastics who converse with guests with open eyes and ears, and are part of the whole. I can only say that you would wish this peace and space for a few days to everyone. Thank you for the wonderful days.
(Spiritual Caregiver. Program: Spirituality and Imagination, October 2025)