Dormition Abbey > Our Work for Peace > Beit Benedict Peace Academy

Beit Benedict Peace Academy

 

The hope for Beit Benedict was articulated during a gathering of Palestinian and Israeli youth with young political leaders at Dormition Abbey in January 2003. Participants, grateful for having found a neutral and safe place at the Dormition, desired to continue to explore the path toward peace here. Realizing that peacemaking takes clear minds, steady spirits, and brave souls, these young leaders requested that the Benedictine community at the Dormition continue to provide a place where the possibility of peace can be dreamed, discussed, and prayed for. Beit Benedict will bear witness to the possibility of peace among the different peoples and faiths of the Middle East and of the world, distinct in their beliefs and practices but all longing for the peace of God.
In this land where walls and borders separate, Beit Benedict will enable those seeking peace, to come together for educational and cultural programs. Building plans include an auditorium, conference rooms, a library, a cafeteria and a meditation room. There people of all faiths may come to experience God's gentle presence as they work for peace. This atmosphere of hospitality and reverence finds its source in the life and prayer of St. Benedict.

The Benedictine Abbey at the Dormition has encouraged the possibility for peace for over ten years through the Mt. Zion Award that recognizes individuals for their peacemaking efforts. Beit Benedict will build on this history of affirming men and women seeking peace.

In this land where walls and borders separate, Beit Benedict will enable those seeking peace, to come together for educational and cultural programs. Building plans include an auditorium, conference rooms, a library, a cafeteria and a meditation room. There people of all faiths may come to experience God's gentle presence as they work for peace. This atmosphere of hospitality and reverence finds its source in the life and prayer of St. Benedict.

The community has acquired the land, building permit and architectural designs. Funds have been raised in Germany for the endowment of Beit Benedict, however, 14 million dollars still needs to be raised for construction. The community humbly requests your prayers and support as they seek to bear witness to the possibility of peace in land that so dearly longs for it.
To learn how to support Beit Benedict, contact our liaison in the United States, Jim and Helene Paharik at hpaharik[at]gmail[dot]com . Donations can be mailed directly to Beit Benedict Foundation at St. Procopius Abbey, 5601 College Road, Lisle, Illinois, 60532.