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Hildegard of Bingen on the Greening of the Soul


  • Saint John's Abbey Guesthouse 31802 County Road 7 Collegeville, MN United States (map)

(c) A. Furchert

A spring renewal for people in ministry and related fields

Hildegard of Bingen was not only a remarkable woman of her time but also a monastic leader, an inspiring theologian, philosopher, composer, and naturopath.

At the beginning of spring we will focus on Hildegard's key concept of viriditas, the greening power, life force of all creation. Participants will be guided into studying and embodying this concept by exploring and experiencing how the idea of viriditas resonates with our life and life stories, and what it can provide to us for our own soul nourishment. While doing so we will take part in the rhythm of the monastic life, sharing meals, learning, laughing, resting and walking.

Starting on Sunday afternoon this spring renewal is especially designed for people in ministry and related fields who are looking for a time to rest and rejuvenate.

The Hildegard seminar takes place at the beautiful, modern and calming guesthouse  at St. John's Abbey, overlooking the picturesque lake and forest. It starts on Sunday, April 26 with afternoon tea and ends on Monday with dinner (optional). The asked offering will be 190$ per person, including your private room, all meals, fees, and materials.

Though our list is closed by now we are still open to your last minute request. We will get back to you asap and let you know if we could still accommodate you.
See also our Hildegard women retreat in May.

Presenters

Almut Furchert, Ph.D. holds graduate degrees in philosophy of religion (Dr. phil.), psychology (Dipl. Psych.) and adult education from German universities and has worked in private practice in Germany for many years. She is an expert on existential thought traditions and has in the last years immersed herself in the studies of Hildegard of Bingen, teaching her as one of the fore-mothers of integrated science and healing practice to audiences ranging from nursing students to senior learners. Her husband Chuck Huff, PhD. is professor of psychology and ethics at St. Olaf College and a practicing Benedictine Oblate at St. Johns Abbey.


Suggested Readings

Here are some books I consider helpful introductions which I am using in my teachings. I will bring them with me to the seminar, along with many German Hildegard texts which are not translated yet.

See also our commented reading list...