A Soul Experience with the Monks of Glenstal Abbey
Special Program: March 9-14, 2010
Glenstal Abbey, an active Benedictine monastery on the Southwest coast of Ireland, sits on 350 acres — with streams, lakes, woodland paths and a magnificent walled garden. Surrounding a castle built in the romantic Norman style, and home to a community of monks, Glenstal is world famous for its choir, remarkable collection of Russian Icons, and prestigious public school. Additionally, it houses one of the most important private libraries in Ireland, containing not only significant theological works but a substantial collection of antiquarian books (many dating back to the 15th century), Irish history, Irish literature, biography and art.
During the course of this unique program, we will be hosted by Mark Patrick Hederman, Glenstal’s Abbot, hear presentations and engage in dialogue and discussion with Jungian analysts Ann Ulanov and John Hill, and some of the Monks (noted authors and scholars in their respective fields). In addition, throughout our time at Glenstal, we will be guided personally by Nóirín Ní Riain, an internationally acclaimed Irish singer of spiritual songs, who lives on the grounds of the Abbey and is an integral part of its sacred musical life. A highlight of our experience will be the opportunity to interact with the monks and join them for meals at the Abbey.
Daily Schedule in Brief
*Daily Schedule
Tuesday, March 9
For those needing transportation, board coach at airport for Adare (for those participating in the Seminar program, complimentary transportation from Galway to Adare will be provided) — considered one of Ireland’s loveliest villages. Known for its pretty, thatched cottages, many of which house antique shops, crafts shops and picturesque restaurants, Adare will be a perfect base for our program at Glenstal Abbey. Check in to Dunraven Arms — one of Ireland’s premier hotels and centrally located in the heart of the village. Rest and relax before Orientation and Welcoming Dinner at our hotel.
Wednesday, March 10
Upon arrival at Glenstal, we will be welcomed by Father Mark Patrick Hederman. Morning presentations will include Brother Colmán Ó Clabaigh (author of The Irish Benedictines: A History) on “Monasticism,” and Jungian analyst Ann Ulanov, on “The Unconscious in Prayer and Prayer in the Unconscious.” At noon, we are invited to join the monks of Glenstal and participate in (or observe) the ritual of Mass and experience firsthand their traditional Gregorian chanting. Or, for those who prefer, time for meditation, journaling or enjoying the grounds and gardens of Glenstal. Following lunch, Nóirín Ní Riain and several of the monks will introduce us to the many facets of the Monastery — including its famed Library, Icon Chapel and meditation path, before returning to Adare for dinner on our own.
Thursday, March 11
This morning, Nóirín Ní Riain and Mark Patrick Hederman will explore the theme of “Music, Mysticism and the Religious Imagination.” Following lunch and a brisk walk to Glenstal’s historic “Caraig an Aifrinn” (Rock of the Mass), accompanied by Nóirín Ní Riain, presentations by Mark Patrick Hederman, “Space and Time in Monastic Worship,” and Nóirín Ní Riain: “‘Ausculta — Listen with the ear of the Heart’ (St. Benedict, 5th century): An Exploration of new kinds of listening through Spiritual Song and Story.” Evening: Option of participating in (or observing) Vespers (in which Gregorian chant plays a significant role) with the beautiful music and choir of Glenstal’s monks. Or, for those who prefer, free time to relax, read and enjoy the grounds before we dine together with the monks of Glenstal (included).
Friday, March 12
Today will begin with a presentation by Father Gregory Collins, “Introducing the Glenstal Abbey Icons” which are housed in the Monastery’s Icon Chapel. This Chapel, which we have all seen on the first day, is itself a singularly mystical experience. Its dramatic lighting and inspiring contemporary architecture provide an ideal setting for these centuries old masterpieces. Using images and illustrations, Father Gregory (author of The Russian Icons of Glenstal) will shed light on the meaning and symbols portrayed in these breathtaking Icons. Following a break for coffee & tea, Jungian analyst John Hill (himself a former student at Glenstal) will discuss “The Many Faces of God: Straddling the Call of the Spirit and the Needs of the Soul.” Afternoon meeting with our Jungian faculty to share the thoughts and feelings of our experience at Glenstal; time to journal, meditate, leisurely meander on the grounds, and/or explore Glenstal’s renowned Library which houses over 70,000 books. Evening: Free…dinner on our own in Adare.
Saturday, March 13
Our final day at Glenstal will include a presentation by Father Seán Ó Duinn on “Celtic Spirituality: Where Three Streams Meet,” and a closing discussion led by Mark Patrick Hederman, the Monks who shared their wisdom with us, and our Jungian faculty. Afternoon visit to nearby Lough Gur, personally guided by Brother Colmán Ó Clabaigh. Lough Gur is the site of dozens of pre-historic monuments dating back over 5,000 years. With its tranquil lake and pre historic mystique, Lough Gur is one of Ireland’s most important pre-Celtic archaeological sites. One of the major sites to the west of the lake is the largest and finest stone circle in Ireland consisting of 113 large stones. This evening, a festive, closing dinner — with music by Nóirín Ní Riain and her talented sons.
Sunday, March 14
Departures for airport…or, for those participating in study/ tour (transportation included), the Dingle Peninsula.
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