Rüdesheim Monastery of St. Hildegard: A path into the future!

Rüdesheim Monastery of St. Hildegard: A path into the future!

In Rüdesheim-Eibingen, exciting things are happening 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 fit for the future. According to canon law, a monastery ceases to exist no later than 100 years after it has been orphaned, and that is a challenge that can be approached with fresh enthusiasm.

The monastery's eventful history is a reminder of the monastery's roots: Hildegard von Bingen laid the foundation stone in 1165 when she took over an empty Augustinian monastery. In 1641 the convent moved to Eibingen after the Rupertsberg monastery was destroyed. A significant turning point came in 1900 with the construction of the new abbey, which was occupied in 1904 and approved by Pope Leo XIII in 1907. was elevated to an abbey.

Looking for new paths

But what's on the agenda now? Sister Philippa talks about a planned transformation of the monastery. A big step that comes with funding of three million euros for resource-saving measures. This also includes projects such as building a photovoltaic system and reducing the size of the retreat 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 Benedictine nuns who practice their skills in various workshops, be it restoration, ceramic art or bookbinding. The monastery winery is also impressive with seven hectares, which the nuns cultivate themselves. The monastery's wines are also very popular and regularly receive recognition at state wine awards.

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 humble name “Nevertheless” was created to give a voice to those who want to leave the church. Abbess Katharina Drouvé sees these initiatives as opportunities to redefine the monastery as a spiritual center.

There is a green oasis for visitors in the monastery shop, which is open from March to December 23rd. Those interested can browse and get individual advice Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you would like to find out 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 Abbey of St. Hildegard impressively shows that tradition and progress can go hand in hand. The goal of upholding the values ​​and legacy of Hildegard von Bingen will remain a matter of the heart in the future. The abbey is not only a place of retreat, but also a lively part of the community in Rüdesheim-Eibingen, that remains undisputed.

For further information about the abbey and its offerings, you can visit the abbey website: abtei-st-hildegard.de.