August 18, 2019
Dear Friends in Christ,
Thank you for giving me the time to attend a weekend retreat at Saint Meinrad Archabbey in Saint Meinrad, IN last weekend. Saint Meinrad Archabbey was founded in 1854 by two monks from Einsiedeln Abbey in Switzerland.They came to southern Indiana at the request of a local priest who was seeking help to serve the pastoral needs of the growing German-speaking Catholic population and to prepare local men to be priests. Today Saint Meinrad operates a graduate seminary and a school of theology. The community consists of about 85 men who dedicate their lives to prayer and work. They gather in community five times each day to pray and celebrate Mass. Most of the worship services are chanted by the monks and guests in their beautiful sanctuary.
During my retreat I attended eight worship services, four classes on major theme in the Gospel of Luke, two social times with snacks and wine, six meals, took a couple of long walks and a tour of the Monastery and Seminary. I also read several chapters in Brian McLaren’s book A Generous Orthodoxy. I left my phone in my room and enjoyed being partially disconnected from the outside world. I met interesting Catholic Deacons, Sisters and lay people as well as a few non-Catholics. It was a wonderful time of reflection and renewal.
Saint Meinrad offers a variety of monk-led retreats each year at their Guest House and Retreat Center on the topic of how scripture, prayer, Benedictine wisdom or art can enhance your spirituality. You can check out their website at www.saintmeinrad.org.
Thank you to Sharon Crosby for leading worship and preaching in my absence. Thank you for your love and support of my spiritual journey.
Blessings,