Sainte-Marie de la Pierre-qui-Vire Abbey
Located 25 kilometers south of Avallon, in the Yonne department (89), in the heart of Burgundy, in the northern Morvan region, Sainte-Marie de la Pierre-qui-Vire Abbey is nestled in the middle of a vast forest crossed by streams, dotted with lakes and ponds, as well as hiking trails and wide forest paths.
A rare natural setting of exceptional beauty!
Retreats organized by the community
Sainte-Marie de la Pierre-qui-Vire Abbey, a unique place
The abbey was founded in 1850 by Father Muard with the construction of a first provisional building. It joined the Benedictine order in 1859. You can find the characteristics of this order in the article A brief introduction to different religious orders.
The church was consecrated in 1871, renewed in 1992, the buildings constructed over the years according to needs, the farm purchased in 1939. In 1954-1957, the two guest house buildings were constructed, which allow the brothers to welcome many retreatants.
The Benedictine monastic community of Pierre-qui-Vire
The community belongs to the Benedictine monastic family, initiated by Saint Benedict in the 6th century, and is part of the Subiaco Monte Cassino Congregation. Each day is structured by prayer with the celebration of seven divine offices (Vigils, Lauds, Eucharist, Sext, None, Vespers and Compline) to which you will be welcome during your retreat.
The monks lead a simple life marked by prayer, community life, work and hospitality, with no activities outside the monastery.
Silence and contemplation are great treasures, to be carefully cultivated by those who "truly seek God." This is what the community offers to guests by participating in the liturgy with the community, by opening the Bible, by praying in the church or at the oratory, by walking in the woods...
In addition to internal community services and hospitality, the brothers have an electric power plant, a permaculture garden, a frênette workshop (a delicious lightly alcoholic fermented drink made from ash tree leaves!) that is just starting, as well as a shop. The brothers also have a farm managed by lay people in partnership with the community.
What to expect during your stay
Living a spiritual retreat at Pierre-qui-Vire
Anyone has the opportunity to withdraw for a period of meditation on their own life, to find spiritual renewal or to deepen their faith, in an environment of calm and contemplation. Participating in the community's prayers plays a central role in this journey. Additionally, you have the opportunity to meet with a brother for spiritual guidance.
Not yet convinced of the importance of taking such a moment in the year? We invite you to read the article on the site that explains all the benefits of a spiritual retreat.
Within the monastery setting, the brothers are also able to welcome various groups wishing to step back to reflect and share.
The community is also happy to receive high school and student chaplaincies, whether for retreats or to prepare for exams. Likewise, movements and reflection groups, whether composed of Christians or people of other faiths, are welcome with their leaders!
As much as possible, the brothers are attentive to the personal needs of our guests. Except in rare cases, they do not have work to offer except for the possibility of helping in the garden.
Guest houses for tailored hospitality at the monastery
Accommodation for guests is divided between two separate locations:
- the lower guest house, which is directly connected to the monastery
- the upper guest house, also known as "Bethany", about a hundred meters away, offering the possibility to accommodate groups in small dormitories or families with young children.
Youth groups are welcome starting from the junior year of high school. As for children's groups, they are welcomed only for day visits, without accommodation or meals. Groups can be up to 30 people.
A nice detail: Digital detox guaranteed during this stay, as the abbey is not covered by mobile phone networks!
Breakfast is self-service and taken in silence. The evening meal is in silence but with music, while lunch is taken with conversation.
Geography and activities
A stay at Pierre-qui-Vire Abbey is a special time to enjoy the monastery setting and its surroundings. The main activity accessible around the abbey during your stay will therefore be walking in the woods.
The suggestions below are possibilities to do outside of retreat time, before or after your stay.
In Burgundy, experiencing a spiritual retreat in the Morvan
Several magnificent places surround the abbey and could be an opportunity for a stop during your journey!
- Vézelay, located in the Yonne (89), is an unmissable destination for lovers of history and religious architecture. The Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine in particular, a UNESCO World Heritage site, impresses with its Romanesque sculptures.
- In the Morvan region, Lac des Settons offers an idyllic setting for outdoor enthusiasts, with its water activities, hiking trails, and the Morvan also offers a panoramic view from Mont Beuvray, which houses the remains of the Gallic city of Bibracte
- Nature lovers will be delighted by the Morvan Regional Natural Park, with its vast forests, serene lakes, and exceptional biodiversity
- The Château de Bazoches, former residence of Vauban, offers a journey through time with its remarkable military architecture and French-style garden
- Finally, as you approach the abbey, stop for a moment at Avallon to contemplate the old stones of the clock tower and its ramparts
Practical information
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