Rüdesheimer monastery St. Hildegard: A way into the future!

Rüdesheimer monastery St. Hildegard: A way into the future!

Rüdesheim am Rhein, Deutschland - in Rüdesheim-Beingingen is exciting in the St. Hildegard monastery. Founded 125 years ago, the abbey is still full of life. Sister Philippa Rath, who sits on the board of the monastery foundation, reports on the ongoing efforts to make the traditional institution sustainable. According to canon law, a monastery expires at the latest 100 years after his orphanage, and that is a challenge that you approach with fresh vigor.

The eventful history is reminiscent of the roots of the monastery: in 1165 Hildegard von Bingen laid the foundation stone when she took over an empty Augustinian monastery. In 1641 the convent moved to Eibingen after the Rupertsberg monastery was destroyed. An important turning point came in 1900 with the construction of the new abbey, which was obtained in 1904 and in 1907 by Pope Leo XIII. was raised to the abbey.

looking for new ways

But what is on the plan? Sister Philippa talks about a planned transformation of the monastery. A big step that goes hand in hand with a funding of three million euros for resource -saving measures. This also includes projects such as the construction of a photovoltaic system and the reduction of the exam in order to create space for institutional tenants. The aim is to preserve the abbey as a place of reflection and relaxation.

The monastery is currently home to 33 Benedictines who live out their skills in various workshops, be it in the restoration, ceramic art or bookbindery. The monastery winery also impresses with seven hectares that manage the nuns themselves. The wines of the monastery are also very popular and regularly achieve recognition in state wine award.

a place of spirituality and reflection

The abbey is not only a place of work, but also plays an important social role. Sister Philippa emphasizes that the monastery offers space for people who are looking for a break from everyday life. A discussion group with the modest name "Nevertheless" was created to give a voice to those who want to leave the church. Abbess Katharina Drouvé sees in these initiatives to redefine the monastery as a spiritual center.

A green oasis is available for visitors in the monastery shop, which is open from March to December 23. Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., interested parties can browse and get advice individually. If you want to learn more about the abbey, you can reach the monastery shop by phone at 06722 / 499-116 or by email at Versand@abtei-st-hildegard.de. The winery can also be reached at 06722 / 499-130 or Weingut@abtei-st-hildegard.de.

The St. Hildegard Abbey shows impressively that tradition and progress can go hand in hand. The goal of keeping up the values ​​and the legacy of Hildegard von Bingen will remain a matter close to the heart in the future. The abbey is not only a retreat, but also a lively part of the community in Rüdesheim-Beingen, that remains undisputed.

For further information about the abbey and its offers, you can visit the website of the Abbey: Abtei-st-hildegard.de .