The Retreat House at Bethlehem Abbey
In Chapter 53 of the Rule of St Benedict, the reality of pilgrims seeking monastic shelter and protection is addressed: All guests who present themselves are to be welcomed as Christ, for he himself will say: I was a stranger and you welcomed me. The chapter, very substantial in itself because of the honour to be shown to guests, outlines the manner of reception, and the liturgy, in effect, celebrated when a guest arrives. It makes one thing abundantly clear: the practice of charity through hospitality is a key element in monastic life, and can often be a barometer of the warmth of the hidden life of the monks in the cloister. St Paul’s advice to the Christians in Rome should ring true for us: You should make hospitality your special care (Romans 12:13).
Following this ancient monastic tradition, we at Bethlehem Abbey manage a Retreat House which is available for individual and group retreats. The Retreat House seeks to be a quiet space: an oratory for retreatants, a dining room, the privacy of one’s own room, and a conference room for more organized retreat groups and meetings.
To explore the possibility of making a retreat with us – either alone or for a group – please contact the Reception at the Retreat House by ringing the number shown below, or via email:
Tel: 028 25 821 211
Email: PortglenoneOCSO@gmail.com
-Our Lady of Bethlehem Abbey, Portglenone-
PortglenoneOCSO@gmail.com
Our Lady of Bethlehem Abbey, Portglenone 