
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...
The Benedictine Center will be closed to guests until further notice. This closure includes on-site programming, individual retreats, spiritual direction, and conference groups. We are currently offering spiritual direction via phone or web and online events.
No Two Spiritual Journeys Are Alike
Events & Registration
Give to the Benedictine Center
From $10 to $25 or more, your gifts support the Sisters’ ongoing ministry through the Benedictine Center. Thank you!
Benedictine Values
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!"