The summer was our season for travel! From South Carolina, to Tennessee, to Kentucky, we saw and experienced many things! The most reflective part of our travels was in Kentucky, where we went on a retreat at the Abbey of Gethsemani. To say the least, it was a very surprising experience! The grounds are spread all around the Abbey, spanning many acres of beautiful rolling hills and farmland. It includes the church, walking trails, a library, gift shop and exhibit, as well as the private areas of the monastery dedicated to the farming and daily work of the monks.
The church was simple but still something mystical was there. Seven times a day the monks recite the Liturgy of Hours and invite the retreatants to pray with them, so that was just what we did! The first prayer was at 3:15am, and was the hardest one to attend! But nevertheless, we soldiered on to the chapel in our pajamas and sweatpants. We also saw the grave of Fr. Louis Merton, also known as Fr. Thomas Merton, a monk and author of many books on the world and religion. Fr. Merton was a Trappist monk and lived at the Abbey.
On our last day, I have to admit, I was a little sad to go, because no where have I ever felt so peaceful and so content. Being there made me realize all that I have been given and the importance in the little things! Once we were all at home, it took us a while to get over the no talking rule in the monastery - we kept whispering! It was a great reflective journey and I plan on making this a yearly tradition for my family and I!
Let us know what you think in the comment section below! Enjoy!
To see more of our trip, click below to watch the video!
