Guest House "All guests who present themselves are to be welcomed as Christ" Chapter 53 of the Rule of St. Benedict WHAT IS A MONASTIC GUEST HOUSE?
In the "olden days" travelers seeking a safe haven while on a journey, sought shelter and took solace in the guest houses of the Benedictines. The same is true today. Guest houses are a time honored "exterior" ministry of a community of Benedictines. We make available a place of rest, reflection and spiritual renewal for any and all who seek it. While the "active" orders of religious, such as the Franciscans, serve society through social work, we as Benedictines serve through prayer and hospitality. Our primary "interior" ministry of prayer (the Divine Office is recited four times a day - you're welcome to join us!) supports the active orders in their work. We also offer our prayer for those who either cannot, or will not, pray for themselves. At the Abbey of St. Benedict you will find comfortable retreat accommodations that include a room with private bath, three meals a day and all the prayer you want! You're welcome to be as active, or inactive, in our prayer and work as you desire while you're with us. In the interest of ecology, economy and personal need, we ask that guests bring shampoo and soap of your own choosing. All linens for bed and bath are provided. Please feel free to bring your favorite pillow. There is a refreshment center in each guest house, stocked with coffee and tea. We also have limited conference/meeting space. WHAT DOES IT COST TO STAY WITH YOU?
A fair question. St. Benedict exhorts us to welcome all as Christ. We cannot put a price on that privilege. Sharing never made anyone poorer. We welcome all, regardless of religious affiliation and economic status. It is our belief that you, as a consumer, know what things cost. Only you can say how you have benefited from your stay with us. Our suggested, freewill donation is $50.00 per night for accommodations and meals (prayers are included!). If you can give more, we are grateful and truly thankful, but no one will be turned away for an inability to pay. In the current economy, many of our brothers and sisters of other houses/orders are increasing the suggested donation for accommodations to offset the cost of their ministry. The average donation asked is between $65 and $100 per night.
HOW DO I RESERVE A ROOM?
We welcome guests Wednesday through Saturday. Guests are invited to stay over on Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays as part of an extended stay but we ask that new guests not arrive on those days as we need time to prepare, clean and attend church at a local parish. Please be aware the meal availability may be limited on those days. To make a reservation, please contact us at 319-837-8421. A member of the community will respond as quickly as possible. STAYING CONNECTED
The Abbey of St. Benedict is a Wi-Fi Hotspot. High Speed Wi-Fi access is available for as little as $10.00 per day. Discounts apply for longer visits. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Our monastic community, The Companions of St. Luke ~ Benedictine, is recognized by the Episcopal Church. We are a contemporary expression of traditional Benedictine life. Because we honor our traditions and the nature of our contemplative lifestyle, we ask that the monastic enclosure of St. Benedict and St. Scholastica be respected except during meal times when guests join us in the refectory for meals. Members of the monastic community can meet with guests in the Guest House. If you have further questions or require clarification on our accommodations, please don't hesitate to let us know. THE ABBEY STAFF
Superior
Abbot Michael John Austin Prior
Brother Paul Howard brpaulcsl@yahoo.com Hospitality
Sister Anna Grace
srannagrace@yahoo.com
Spiritual Direction
Abbot Michael John Austin
The Reverend Sister Mary Catherine Christopher srmarycatherinecsl@hotmail.com Group or Individual Guided Retreats
Abbot Michael
John
The Reverend Sister Mary Catherine Christopher srmarycatherinecsl@hotmail.com
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