A Visit to The Conception Abbey
March 22nd, 2007
Today I had the privilege of joining two of my friends for a vespers service and a meal at Conception Abbey which is about an hour or so north of Kansas City. You can learn more about the Conception Abbey here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conception_Seminary_College
The Vespers service lasted about 30 minutes or so and it was incredibly sacred and full of reverence, beauty and inspiration. The sound of the monks singing was very calming and provided some much needed solitude.
The Basilica was beautiful. I would have loved to take some pictures but I didn’t out of a respect for the other worshipers. Here is a picture of part of the ceiling I found when I googled the Basilica. It is not the greatest picture and it certainly doesn’t do it justice… but perhaps it will reveal just a taste of the beauty.
Watching the community of monks interact with each other was very warming. I was deeply encouraged and moved by their obvious love for God and one another.
I also spoke for a few minutes with a guy from Kansas who was there exploring the possibility of becoming a priest. I asked him, “What is drawing you to this?” He said, “I am just really passionate about people meeting God for the first time and regularly meeting with him.”
I needed the time with God and the peace and rest that those few hours brought. I wish I could have spent more time there…
When was the last time you had a few hours with God? Can’t remember? I think you know what that means… Let me know how it goes :>
March 23rd, 2007 at 9:29 am
Nothing like a sacred space - that place dedicated to meeting with God. Of course - we must bring something in that place, glad you had a little time of refreshing.
March 25th, 2007 at 11:39 pm
I remember being at a wedding at Saint Vincent Abbey (Latrobe, PA) several years ago. I had never been in such a beautiful house of worship. The Stations of the Cross were around the perimeter of the room, and I had never heard of them. I was blown away. Kim had to drag me into the pew for the service.
I’m looking into taking a few days away at a retreat center. I’d love to visit a monastery. Hope you get to spend some more time away soon.
March 26th, 2007 at 8:44 am
Stac- Yeah, the beauty leaves me wanting… Thanks for sharing your experience. Are you introducing your students to the Staions? I bet many of them are like you in that they would be seeing them “for the first time”?
March 26th, 2007 at 8:45 am
Doug — wish you could have been there with me. You are so right about brninging something to into that sacred space!