The PCUSA Pilgrim Pastor

July 15-17, 2024

The Abbey of Gethsemani is a special place. Situated in Trappist, Kentucky this holy place was the home of Thomas Merton who entered this monastery in 1941 and stayed until his death in 1968.

This community of 40 Trappist Monks have continued the tradition of inhabiting this place for over 170 years. It is an absolutely stunning location of 1500 acres full of dozens of trails.

The first day I was there I walked a trail to some statues in the woods representing the sleeping disciples and Jesus in the Garden of…you guessed it, Gethsemani.

Abbey life is structured by guests can choose how they want to participate in monastic life. Here was our schedule.

Before you ask, no I did not go to the 3:15 am service. I did attend the 5:45 am one several times because it was the only service when a homily and communion were offered. Here is what the chapel looks like inside.

Anyone can attend worship but we sit in a separate section, not in the seats you see above where the brothers are. We are given the scriptures and prayers but not the songs. An organ is played to accompany the music led by one of the brothers.

This is the walk leading up to the chapel.

On the right side of this walkway are the gardens for the brothers. No one is allowed there and there is a gate blocking the entrance.

On the other side of the walkway is the entrance to the retreat center where I stayed. Only those on retreat are allowed inside.

The grounds are open to the public and they are very well kept. It is a peaceful place to walk and soak up the silence.

On the second day I took a longer hike to the top of Cross Knob Hill. It was well marked as I went through fields…

Passed by lakes…

Hiked through forests…

And finally arrived at the top where the cross marked the spot.

The view was stunning.

Of course, the most fun was seeing the deer that coexisted in the wildlife. They even posed for me.

Although only 2 1/2 days, I enjoyed the silent meals, the two talks one of the brothers gave, walking in nature, worship, and just taking a deep breath as another part of my sabbatical ended.