|
Local Benedictine Monastery founded in 1889 with Guest House, Retreat Center and Gift Shop located about 45 minutes north of Riverview. Open to everyone from all walks of life. The monks invite everyone from all walks of life to enjoy the grounds, pray with the monks, visit the Abbey Gift Shop and stay in the Guest House or Retreat Center.
The only Benedictine monastery in Florida is located just 45 minutes north of Riverview in the rural small town of St. Leo. There are only about 50 Benedictine monasteries in the United States so it is a rare treat to have one located so close to Riverview. Every 15 minutes the bells of St. Leo Abbey ring out over the beautiful grounds consisting of rolling hills and lovely Lake Jovita, the monks of St. Leo Abbey welcome everyone to their monastery and retreat center. Spend a few hours, a day or make reservations for a longer stay in their Guest House. The monks operate a retreat center to accommodate larger groups. Visitors may pray with the monks during any of their five daily prayer sessions. While you are there be sure to visit the Abbey Gift Shop managed by Brother Matthew.
The historic Benedictine monks are a very ancient Order of monks, an unbroken chain of meditation and prayer stretching back over 1500 years. Benedictine monks follow a Rule for monastic living written by St. Benedict. A main activity of Benedictine monks is the singing of the psalms in Gregorian Chants several times a day. Hospitality is an important Benedictine tenant and as such people from all walks of life and backgrounds are welcomed by the monks. St. Leo Abbey, founded in 1889, is not an isolated monastery but is located beside St. Leo University and students often stroll the grounds. A public library is also located beside the monastery, restrooms are inside the library. Visit the monastery Welcome Center (across from the Gift Shop) to pick up a Walking Tour brochure. A restaurant is located across the street on The Abbey Golf Course. Dade City is about a ten minute drive down the road. John and I often visit St. Leo Abbey to recharge our spiritual batteries. Maybe we'll see you there!
|
