The Chimes

Aware of Peter’s theological/philosophical grounding, and his deep spirituality (nourished in the past thirteen years by the monastic tradition) Abbot John invited him to give the retreat, the first time someone other than a priest or religious has done so in the history of the New Norcia community. Our small community was enriched with the presence of Sr Raphael Stone OSB, Sr Lilian Bong SJA, and our resident volunteers Jim and Chris. Our friends Chris, Phil and Jason also sat in on a few sessions during the week of silent reflection.

Drawing on the Scriptures, the Rule of St Benedict, the Divine Office, his favourite authors such as Flannery O’Connor, and his own personal and professional experience, Peter offered two conferences each day on the theme ‘The hidden God whom we seek.’ It was a very contemplative retreat full of wisdom and insight. In this present time in which the church is focusing on Synodality – a time of attentive listening to all members of the Body of Christ – the retreat was indeed a profound example of ‘synodality in action.’

We kept the tradition of ending the retreat silence with a ‘picnic day’ at the conclusion of this special time in the monastic year, enjoying a lovely lunch together at the Victoria Hotel in Toodyay.

Christianity has a rich tradition of pilgrims spending time in the desert in search of a deeper spirituality. In many ways, entering the solitude of the New Norcia environment provides such an experience. There is peace here, tranquillity, a sense of engaging with a different, deeper, reality. The possibility of refreshment resides here, of re-calibrating a life that is far too often harassed by busyness, urgency, and turmoil. Residing at New Norcia for a few days clears the mind, steadies the heart, enables the body to rest. A stay at New Norcia is highly recommended therapy for any weary pilgrim!

Richard B.

Wonderful, tranquil place to stay. The food was delicious and plentiful, the beds were comfy, rooms air conditioned and the showers hot! Together with the bird song and peace, these make New Norcia the perfect get away for a weary soul.

Jody B.

Our annual retreats and ‘getting away from the noise of the city’ is, for me, one of the highlights of the year. I did enjoy the New Norcia bread, red wine, and delicious nourishing food served generously to us during the retreat. There is a reverence about New Norcia which I love. The serenity, the surrounds, the monks chanting the Psalms, Fr Robert’s music in the church (demonstrating the sound and quality of the organ brought out from Europe many years ago) enhanced by the acoustics of the building was extremely moving...

And it was lovely to have the companionship and presence of others, even though we were part of a Silent Retreat.

Evelyn I.

The marriage ceremony, presided over by Abbot John, took place in the popular wedding venue of St Ildephonsus’ chapel which was adorned with beautifully designed flower arrangements…how handy it is to have a family member as a florist. While the stunning bride and handsome groom took ‘centre-stage’, the six young flower girls and page boys made every effort to steal the show.

After the ceremony, drinks and canapes were enjoyed in the open-air arcades at the rear of the college, followed by a festive banquet in a spectacular marquee set up on the lawn area in the Education Centre, which was serviced by a brigade of chefs and waiters, and bar service provided by one of the local sports clubs.

Guests stayed overnight in every accommodation venue New Norcia has to offer, and enjoyed a cooked breakfast in St Ild’s dining room the next morning…it’s amazing what bacon and eggs can do for the after effects of such a great occasion!