Waterholes depicted by Australian Indigenous artists are often shown as a series of concentric circles, lines radiating out, radiating in – connecting the water in the centre to the life around. The image of the waterhole reflects something of how Benedictus seeks to be – a place of refreshment and replenishment, an open sanctuary in the midst of our city. Everyone, from whatever background or tradition, is welcome to come sit awhile in the garden, join us for meditation or participate in gatherings that offer a chance to rest, reflect and be returned to daily life replenished.
Notorious Nietzsche and Religion (with Nikolai Blaskow)
Nikolai Blaskow, Benedictus’s very own Nietzsche scholar, is offering a series of lectures which seek to:
- introduce Nietzsche in a fresh way to those readers familiar with his writings, those new to them but wanting to know more, and to scholars curious about a different way of reading him
- dispel the misconceptions which perpetuate the myth
- provide through his theology of suspicion, exciting ways of approaching religion and life into an AI dominated 21st and 22nd century
Lecture 3: The Life Affirmer (Thursday 21 November, 7.30-9.00pm). For Zoom, use Evening Meditation link
Lecture 1, “The God Killer” materials can be found here. For audio click here
Lecture 2, ‘The Christ Denier’. Lecture can be found here. For audio click here
2025 Silent Retreat: Heaven in Ordinarie – Renewing Connection
Once again, Benedictus is offering a silent retreat this coming January. Led by Sarah, this retreat is an invitation, early in the year, to renew connection with the heart of prayer and so with the ground of our being. We will follow a gentle rhythm of meditation, rest and reflection, with time together and time for solitude, discovering the peaceable communion of love abiding in our midst. It will speak to experienced meditators and beginners. All are welcome.
When: Friday January 17 – Sunday January 19 2025
Where: St Clement’s Retreat Centre, Galong NSW
Cost: Ensuite Room $410, Shared Bathroom $380
Please see the attached flyer for more information.
For bookings: https://www.trybooking.com/CVUBY
New Program: Formation in Contemplative Action
How does our contemplative practice make a difference in our daily lives? What does it mean to make decisions in a more contemplative spirit, to discern choices more wisely, to engage well with differences in the workplace or home? We are excited to let you know that in 2025, Benedictus is offering a year-long program for Formation in Contemplative Action.
This program will particularly speak to those who are seeking wisdom and a community that will support them to participate in work, leadership and the active life with expanded self-awareness, freedom and love. It is open to members of Benedictus and also to people beyond this community. The program involves two weekend retreats in January and July, a regular monthly gathering on Sunday afternoons, and one-one mentoring. There are limited places available and there will be a process of discernment and conversation as part of the application process.
For more information please see the attached flyer, or contact Sarah at info@benedictus.com.au