Sharing the Wisdom of Benedictine Spirituality
The Sisters of St. Paul’s Monastery remain convinced
Our Story
A Vision For Benedictine Retreat Ministry
Since its founding in 1983, the Benedictine Center has carried forward the values envisioned by its founder, S. Veronica Novotny OSB: reverence for God, reverence for creation, hospitality toward all, beauty and simplicity, silence and prayer.
S. Veronica believed these values create a setting for those who seek to gain a deeper awareness of God, a greater understanding of self, and a special love for one another and the unity of all persons. The Benedictine Center continues to carry on the legacy of hospitality to which S. Veronica was committed.
Why Choose the Benedictine Center?
Time-tested wisdom of Benedictine spirituality
In some way, every event, conversation, and service helps people live out Benedictine values.
Intimacy of a living community
Solitude is enriched by the support and encouragement of the Sisters and others who pray with you.
Stirring beauty in art and architecture
Artists lift our spirits and renew our attention to God's presence.
From scratch cooking
Talented chefs find joy in creating wholesome and delicious meals, often made from local foods.
Talented staff ready to help you
Each member of the staff attends to their own spiritual journey and finds joy in assisting others along the way.
St. Paul’s Monastery Connection
The Benedictine Center is unique in welcoming guests into an environment shared by a living monastic community. The spirit of daily prayer and the artistic beauty of the place contribute to an environment well-suited for reflection and renewal. This connection is not incidental—it is the lifeblood of the Benedictine Center and the inspiration for every service it provides. Learn more about the Sisters of St. Benedict of St. Paul’s Monastery . . .
Staff and spiritual directors
Benedictine Staff and Spiritual Directors
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!"