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Welcome, Retreat and Spirituality Seekers

“As soon as anyone knocks the porter of the monastery replies, ‘Thanks be to God’ or ‘Your blessing, please’. Then the porter provides a prompt answer with the warmth of love.” (RB 66:3-4)

Embodying this vision of hospitality, the Benedictine Center is a threshold between St. Paul’s Monastery and the wider world. Staff members serve as Benedict’s porter, ready to welcome each guest with all the gentleness that comes from God.

A Note Regarding COVID-19...

These days, one phrase from the Rule of Benedict has been guiding our discernment: “The monks should try to be the first to show respect to the other, supporting with the greatest patience one another’s weaknesses.” This, Benedict says, it the “good zeal which monks must foster with fervent love” (RB 72). As a matter of fervent love for the vulnerable members of the Monastery and the wider community, the Benedictine Center is taking steps to help limit the spread of COVID-19. We hope you will join us in taking steps in your own life to help keep the vulnerable among us healthy.

The Benedictine Center will begin receiving guests on September 1. This includes individual retreats, spiritual direction, and conference groups. We are currently offering spiritual direction via phone or Zoom and online events.

To learn more about the protocols for the Benedictine Center, go here.

No Two Spiritual Journeys Are Alike

Some guests make use of one resource at a time, dropping in for prayer, some quiet, or to participate in an event. Some stay connected to the Benedictine Center by meeting one-on-one with a spiritual director or bringing their group to the Benedictine Center for retreat. Others like to take advantage of more than one resource. Our staff is ready to help you decide which options may be uniquely helpful to you.

Personal Retreats

Ready to step into a quiet retreat space and remember what is really important?

At The Benedictine Center, we believe that each spiritual experience is as unique and personal as the individual seeking fulfillment. Our staff will help you explore options so that your time with us is rich with healing and renewal.

Spiritual Direction

Interested in finding a companion for your spiritual journey?

The Benedictine Center’s spiritual direction team is comprised of experienced, knowledgeable spiritual leaders trained to be exceptional listeners, paying attention to the movement of the Spirit and helping individuals deepen their own spiritual journeys.

Group Conferencing

Looking for just the right mix of professionalism and personal touch and for your group’s next retreat?

The Benedictine Center works to ensure that conference guests enjoy a deeply rewarding and inspiring experience. Whether your group designs its own agenda or draws on our wide range of resources, we’re confident your group will be enriched by their time at the Monastery.

  • Find Some Quiet
  • Connect with a Guide
  • Participate in an Event
  • Learn Benedictine Spirituality
  • Take in an Exhibit
  • Bring a Group
  • Pray with the Sisters

Events & Registration

The Benedictine Center re-opened to guests on September 1, 2021. We are currently offering spiritual direction via Zoom or in person and online events.

Benedictine Mission

The Benedictine Center shares the monastic heritage of St. Paul’s Monastery with all who seek to live with the Gospel as their guide.

Benedictine Vision

The Benedictine Center is a sacred threshold between St. Paul’s Monastery and world. In the name of the Sisters, it creates a space for people to experience peace of mind and peace of spirit. The Benedictine Center forms a “school for the Lord’s service” in the tradition defined by St. Benedict and flourishes in the midst of a monastic community that bears witness to the power of hospitality, conversation, and mutual service. Through prayer, study, and discernment, the Benedictine Center guides people in developing a contemplative heart open to the message of the Gospel and the discovery of God’s presence at the core of their lives.

Benedictine Values

Extend radical hospitality
Practice the art of prayer
Model the formative power of community
Deepen the habit of study
Discern the call to service as disciples of Christ
Express God’s presence in beauty

Testimonials

“When I see all these people sharing their souls, I can’t help but wonder what mine has to say.”

Anonymous Patron

“Returning for the juried show each year helps me stay at my practice all year long.”

Anonymous Artist

“It’s so peaceful here. Even my body feels it when I walk through the door.”

Wendy

“Wow. What can I say? I cannot thank you enough for the way that you helped me. This was a wonderful experience—one of a lifetime.”

Jim

“I am moved every time I walk in these doors and encounter a new exhibit.”

Mark

“I am an artist who just moved to town. I have found my people.”

Jill

“We found the spiritual atmosphere, architecture and interaction with the community of St. Paul's Monastery as asset to our work . . . the Benedictine Center keeps our focus on the spiritual dimension of life as it unfolds.”

Dr. Mel Kimble

“As a staff we were amazed at the quality of our experience together.”

Fr. Chuck Brambilla

“God has breathed empowering courage into my life and ministry through times of silence in this beautiful center.”

Pastor Ruth Conrad

“The Benedictine Center made our retreat with college students nothing less than spectacular. What we encountered was a true sense of Benedictine hospitality and prayerfulness.”

Aaron Miller, Campus Minister

“I can’t believe I slept for twelve hours straight. It must have been what my body needed.”

Nancy

"Our time was peaceful and beautiful and blessed."

Dianne

“I’ve been in spiritual direction for a long time. I wouldn't be without it.”

Carol

“My spiritual director helps me be me. I appreciate the way she encourages me as I sort through my relationship with God.”

Alan

“Sometimes I come and have no idea what I’m going to talk about. I am amazed to see what surfaces every time.”

Becky

“I’m not sure exactly why, but it just seemed like it was time to go on retreat.”

Glen

“I have had just the right balance of solitude and community. What a blessing to be able to be apart without feeling alone on my journey.”

Carolyn

"Thank you for the retreat. It was refreshing, renewing, restful, and helpful."

Dave

"The Center has been an immense contributor to my spiritual development . . . and I am on the path Home.”

Linda

"My first time at the Benedictine Center was a most wonderful experience! It was a time of quiet, solitude, and peace. I am coming back!"

Stephen