Abadia de Nossa Senhora de São Bernardo
São José do Rio Pardo – SPBrazil
A Cistercian retreat in the heart of São José do Rio Pardo
In São José do Rio Pardo, in the interior of the State of São Paulo, the Abbey of Our Lady of St Bernard is home to a community of Cistercian monks living according to the Rule of Saint Benedict. The monastery was canonically established in 1943 and today belongs to the Cistercian Congregation of St Bernard in Italy. It is currently led by Abbot Dom Paulo Celso Demartini, O.Cist.
Prayer lies at the heart of life here. Throughout the day, the monks gather for the Divine Office and the Eucharist, while work, silence and community life shape the rest of their monastic rhythm. Guests wishing to step away from everyday life can stay at the monastery's Pastoral Center, which welcomes people for retreats and also receives those discerning a monastic vocation.
Set within the historic city of São José do Rio Pardo, the abbey offers an unusual combination: the simplicity and regular rhythm of Cistercian life while remaining close to the cultural and historical heritage of the city.
What awaits you
Practical information
Liturgy
Prayer structures the monks' day: Vigils: 5:00 a.m. Terce: 8:00 a.m. Sext: 12:00 p.m. None: 2:00 p.m. Vespers: 5:30 p.m. Compline: 7:45 p.m. Conventual Mass: 6:15 a.m.
Accommodation
Guests are received at the monastery's Pastoral Center, which is available for retreats. The Pastoral Center welcomes individuals as well as families and groups.
Spiritual guidance
Guests wishing to meet with a monk can discuss it with the guestmaster when booking their retreat.
Getting there
São José do Rio Pardo can be reached from São Paulo by intercity transport.
The abbey is accessible by car. For parking details, please contact the guestmaster.