Holy Wisdom Monastery

Kids on the Prairie
2025-08-10 10:30 - 12:00 (America/Chicago) | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Explore nature’s beauty and surprises!
Kids on the Prairie (KOTP) is for children and their adult family members. Experienced volunteer educators and guides will facilitate a short hike to learn about nature and explore the grounds and trails. This free event is open to members of Holy Wisdom communities and the general public.
August 10 – Butterflies and Bugs
Get up close to insects on flowers. Look for monarchs and other insects. Find out what they are doing on different common plants.

Welcome & Presence: A Courage & Renewal® Weekend
2025-08-08 19:00 - 2025-08-10 12:00 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Welcome & Presence: A Courage & Renewal® Weekend
The renewal weekend will include creating a quiet, focused and enlivened space – a Circle of Trust® – where personal, inner wisdom can be heard. There will be a mix of time spent in large group, small group and individual reflection along with poetry, teaching stories, wisdom traditions, nature and activities for exploration.
We will use these experiences and other rich metaphors to symbolize and discover and explore life questions. Together, we will experience creating spaces in our lives to tend and nurture our desire to live fully with courage and resilience.

Revitalize your commitment to the values that give meaning to your life.
Increase your ability to listen openly and be present.
Learn reflective practices to become more intentional.
Explore questions to build and sustain community.
Expand trustworthy and authentic relationships.

The Circle of Trust approach is based on the work of Dr. Parker J. Palmer, Founder and Senior Partner Emeritus of the Center for Courage & Renewal, who is a world-renowned writer, speaker and activist. Explore the principles, practices and resources from the Center for Courage & Renewal: https://couragerenewal.org/courage-renewal-approach/
This program is being independently organized and led by a Courage & Renewal Facilitator(s) prepared by the Center for Courage & Renewal and is part of a Year of Courage & Renewal® Weekend Experiences.
Using the Center for Courage & Renewal principles, practices and touchstones, we will begin with themes of welcome & presence (August), living the questions (November), grace & reflection (February), and wonder & hope (April). In the language of Benedictine values, the focus is on hospitality, patience & humility, prayer, communication & stewardship.
Schedule
Friday, August 8
3:00 pm – Check-in for Retreatants Staying in RGH
6:30 pm – Registration
7:00-9:00 pm – Session
Saturday, August 9
9:00-10:15 am – Session
10:15-10:30 am – Break
10:30 am-12:00 pm – Session
12:00-1:30 pm – Lunch and Free Time
1:30-3:00 pm – Session
3:00-3:15 pm – Break
3:30-5:00 pm – Session
5:15 pm – Dinner
Sunday, August 10
10:00 am-12:00 pm – Session
Leaders – Mary Louise Peters, MSE & Amy Christianson, EdD

Mary Louise Peters is a Courage & Renewal® Facilitator, providing retreats and renewal experiences since 2010. She has worked as an educator and consultant at local, state and national levels to improve early childhood and special education for children and families, teaching practices and conditions for staff, and state educational systems.

Amy Christianson recently completed the Courage & Renewal® Practicum Program. Amy has been a participant in a number of seasonal and Circle of Trust retreats. She has a long professional career in education within early childhood, K-12 and higher education settings. Amy’s background includes educational leadership, organizational change and working with diverse populations.

Cost
$250 commuter; $435 residential
Register
Please register by July 25, 2025. The maximum number of participants is 24 and registration will close when full.
Cancellation policy – if you register but must cancel your registration, you can receive a 75% refund up until July 25, 2025. After that, a 50% refund is available until the retreat starts.

Flower Market
2025-08-03 10:00 - 10:30 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Visit the Flower Market after Sunday Assembly!

Take home a beautiful bouquet, assembled by volunteers and the land care team, of monastery grown cut flowers* to enjoy. This market will feature zinnias and other wildflowers. We appreciate your support and hope you enjoy the Benedictine value of beauty expressed through a bouquet of monastery flowers.
Suggested donation of $20; your donation will support the meaningful and continued work of Holy Wisdom.

Cash/check only
Checks made out to Benedictine Life Foundation

As a reminder, please never remove flowers or other natural items from the monastery grounds yourself. Our land care team makes informed selections of which prairie flowers can be used at the market based on their expertise and knowledge of our land & the ecology.
*Cut bouquets are limited. First come, first serve. We do plan to have a second flower market later in August.

No Other Land Film & Discussion
2025-07-28 18:00 - 20:00 | WI
Join us for the viewing and discussion of No Other Land, an Academy Award winning documentary between Palestinian activist and Israeli journalist about the destruction of the West Bank community. The event is sponsored by the Sunday Assembly Social Justice Committee and will take place in the Holy Wisdom Monastery guest dining room. Popcorn will be served. Those who wish may donate after the movie to Doctors Against Genocide.

Beyond Imagination: Community Art Exhibit Opening Reception
2025-07-27 10:30 - 12:00 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Join us on Sunday, July 27, 2025 for the opening reception of Beyond Imagination the newest art exhibit at Holy Wisdom Monastery. This exhibit features artwork by Holy Wisdom community members using techniques including painting, batik, stained glass, colored pencil, weaving, pastels, photography and block and monotype prints. In 2024, 28 people from a variety of monastery communities, had their work in the exhibit.
The opening reception will be held after Sunday Assembly worship, from 10:30 am – noon. Artists will be available to speak with attendees about their work. Light refreshments will be provided by the artists.
The exhibit will be on display from July 27 – September 20, 2025. Gallery hours are Tuesday – Friday, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm (excluding holidays) and Sunday, 10:00 – 11:00 am.
Register
Please register so we have enough refreshments.

Wisdom Prairie Summer Tour
2025-07-24 08:30 - 10:30 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Join us for an experience for everyone to explore the seasonal beauty found on the monastery grounds in summer. Experienced tour guides will share the story of Caring for the Earth and help participants deepen their relationship with this land.
Meet at the kiosk in the monastery building parking lot. Tours will last 1-2 hours. We will proceed with the tour in the event of light to moderate rain but cancel for thunderstorms or other severe weather.
Cost
There is no cost to participants for this tour. Donations to Care for the Earth are always welcome.
Register
Please register with the button below so we have enough tour guides and can contact you in case we need to cancel due to weather.

Summer Stewards 2025
2025-07-22 14:00 - 2025-07-27 11:00 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
♦ Are you concerned about climate change?
♦ Are you feeling unmoored in the uncertainty of our world?
♦ Are you longing for something with deep roots to help you feel grounded?
♦ Would you like time away for reflection, discernment and prayer?
♦ Do you want to deepen your spirituality in a setting that connects your faith with care for the earth?
Be a Summer Steward at Holy Wisdom Monastery for six days in July. Live the monastic rhythm of prayer, work and rest in a progressive, inclusive community whose mission includes being in right relationship with the earth and one another. Join us for prairie and oak savanna restoration, gardening, reading and spiritual conversation. Share your experiences, reflections and questions with women on a similar journey – all this while living together in community on the monastery grounds. No previous experience required.

Six-legged Summit: An Insect Conference
2025-07-18 08:45 - 14:15 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Join us for a full day of learning all about the wonderful world of insects. This program involves multiple sessions, including outdoor field trips, indoor photo-filled presentations and family-friendly activities. All participants will receive lunch, and can expect to bring home resources and inspiration to take action on behalf of insects, as well as a renewed sense of awe and wonder.
For each concurrent session, you can choose from two options including indoor presentations and guided hikes outdoors.
Schedule

8:45 am – Doors open
9:00 am – Welcome & introduction
9:15 – 10:30 am – Concurrent session I

Robberflies with Mike Reese
Monarch Butterflies with Karen Oberhauser

10:45 am – 12:00 pm – Concurrent session II

Dragonflies with Edgar Spalding (outdoor tour)
Bumblebees with Jade Kochanski

12:00 – 1:00 pm – Lunch
1:00 – 2:15 pm – Concurrent session III

Monarch Butterflies with Karen Oberhauser (outdoor tour)
Dragonflies with Edgar Spalding

Session Descriptions
Welcome & Introduction: Join us for a brief introduction to why we’re here today. We’ll take a whirlwind tour of insect diversity, be reminded of how much you already know about this large class of animals, and learn how important insects are to our lives and to the workings of the natural world.
Robberflies with Mike Reese: In this outdoor field trip, we will explore prairie and woodland trails in search of robberflies, an overlooked but amazing group of insects. Learn about robberfly ID, ecology and their amazing hunting abilities.
Monarch Butterflies with Karen Oberhauser (indoor): Monarch butterfly populations have been declining over the last 25 years—essentially the entire time that we’ve been monitoring them. It is important to move beyond documenting this decline, and focus on the challenge posed by monarch conservation and insect conservation in general. Come learn about the amazing biology of migratory monarchs, how we can use data collected by scientists and public to understand what is driving monarch numbers, and what we can do with that information. The take-home message will be how we can address species conservation—in our own gardens and beyond—in the face of climate and other human-driven changes.
Dragonflies with Edgar Spalding (outdoor): More information coming soon.
Bumblebees with Jade Kochanski (indoor/outdoor): This session will offer an exploration of Wisconsin’s native bumble bees, focusing on ecology, conservation, and identification. Participants will gain in-field identification experience and are encouraged to use their new knowledge to contribute to the WDNR Bumble Bee Brigade participatory science program.
Monarch Butterflies with Karen Oberhauser (outdoor): The odds are that there is milkweed, monarchs’ only host plant, growing somewhere in a neighborhood near you. Join us for a treasure hunt as we look for monarch eggs and caterpillars on milkweed growing in Holy Wisdom Monastery gardens and prairies, and check out the other interesting animals that find food or a place to rest on these amazing plants. We’ll look closely at the unique flowers found on all milkweed plants, and learn about the milky sap that gives the plants their name.
Dragonflies with Edgar Spalding (indoor): More information coming soon.
Leaders
Jade Kochanski is a pollinator and restoration ecologist whose work focuses on bumble bee conservation in restored tallgrass prairie managed with prescribed fire across Wisconsin. She is committed to community-focused outreach.
Karen Oberhauser has studied monarch butterflies for almost 40 years, using traditional lab and field techniques, as well as the contributions of a variety of audiences through participatory science. She is now happily retired, but spent most of her career at the University of Minnesota, before becoming the director of the UW-Madison Arboretum from 1997-2023.
Mike Reese has worked as a cook, botanist, high school math teacher, golf and basketball coach, and finally a high school librarian. While he has no formal academic training in the field of entomology, he has gained a tremendous depth of knowledge from spending lots of time wandering around, getting his feet wet and looking for whatever happens to be flying by.
Edgar Spalding grew up in rural Nova Scotia and became deeply interested in nature, and a life-long birder (including photography). But, in college he became interested less in nature and more in the physical and chemical aspects of life processes — physiology is the best word. So he returned to his native USA for grad school (Penn State), postdoctoral work (Yale), and joined the faculty at UW–Madison in 1994.
Who Can Attend this Event?
Open to all. Family friendly, children welcome to attend with an adult. Activities are most appropriate for adults and kids 5+.
Cost

$22 for adults
$12 for kids 12 and under

Register
Please register by July 10, 2025. There is no refund if you have to cancel your registration.

Conversations About Our Benedictine Life: Humility
2025-07-17 18:30 - 20:00 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Deepen your understanding of Benedictine spirituality by joining us for one or more of the Conversations About Our Benedictine Spirituality: Humility sessions. These gatherings offer time for reflections, for the reading of short pieces on humility from the Rule of Benedict and other authors, an exploration of how Benedictine humility differs from our every day understandings of it, and conversations about the gifts and challenges of living this Benedictine value in our lives.
These sessions are open to any adult who relates to any of the Holy Wisdom Monastery communities.

Celebration of Monastic Profession and Feast of Benedict & Scholastica Brunch
2025-07-13 09:00 - 12:00 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
You are invited to join us for the Celebration of Monastic Profession and Feast of Benedict and Scholastica Brunch on Sunday, July 13, 2025.
Celebration of Monastic Profession
We will celebrate Sister Lynne Smith, OSB’s 25th anniversary of her monastic profession and the one year anniversary of her election as prioress. Sister Lynne will renew her promises to monastic life and the sisters’ community during Sunday Assembly worship. All are welcome.
Feast of Benedict and Scholastica Brunch
Stay after Sunday Assembly worship for the annual Feast of Benedict and Scholastica Brunch. The food will be provided by the sisters.
Schedule
Sunday, July 13, 2025:

Sunday Assembly Eucharist and Celebration of Monastic Profession – 9:00-10:15 am – Monastery Assembly Room
Feast of Benedict & Scholastica Brunch – 10:15 am-12:00 pm – Monastery Guest Dining Room

Reflection on 25 Years
Click here to read Sister Lynne Smith, OSB’s reflection on 25 years as a Sister at Holy Wisdom Monastery.
Cost
There is no cost to participants for this event.
Register
Please register by July 6, 2025.

Summer Plentitude: A Seasonal Retreat
2025-07-11 13:00 - 2025-07-12 16:00 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
A riot of color on the prairie welcomes you to seek and celebrate your own abundance. This summer retreat invites you to sit with the lush growth of the season – on the prairie and in your own life and heart. It will hold space for attention to both.
Conversations about the season, walks on the prairie, naps, art, movement, journaling, great meals and welcoming accommodations will all be a part of what you can expect when you arrive. A renewed connection to nature and to yourself, along with joy in the plentitude and abundance of the season are what you can expect to take with you when you leave.
Seasonal Retreats
Each season this year, we will offer a different seasonal retreat. They will open spaces where each different season can offer its unique wisdom to us in the changing seasons of our lives. Each retreat is a two-day, one-night experience at Holy Wisdom with cozy accommodations, delicious meals, spacious time periods for solitude, reading and rest and contemplative conversations with other retreatants. There will also be a variety of opportunities to explore the prairies and the season and discover their gifts for you.
Upcoming Retreats

Summer Plentitude – July 11-12, 2025 (F/Sa)

Fall Fallowing – November 19-20, 2025 (W/Th)

Summer Plentitude Date/Times
Fri., July 11, 1:00 pm – Sat., July 12, 4:00 pm, 2025
Arrive between 11:30 am and 1:00 pm on July 11 to check into your room. The retreat begins at 1:00 pm on July 11 and concludes at 4:00 pm on April 12.
$250 early bird until Jun 3, $295 general, until July 3
Cost
$250/person – Early bird registration until June 3, 2025
$295/person – Full price cost starting June 4, until sold out or July 3, 2025
The cost of the retreat includes program, meals (Friday dinner, Saturday breakfast and lunch) and overnight room.
Register
The registration deadline for this retreat is July 3, 2025, or when the retreat fills.
Cancellation policy – if you register but must cancel your registration, you can receive a 75% refund up until July 3, 2025. After that, a 50% refund is available until the retreat starts.
After you register, if you would like to request a double room with another retreatant or if you have other questions about accommodations, please contact Brooke Livingston at blivingston@holywisdommonastery.org.

Conversations About Our Benedictine Life: Humility
2025-07-09 13:00 - 14:30, 2025-06-22 10:30 - 11:30, 2025-06-17 18:30 - 20:00 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Deeper your understanding of Benedictine spirituality by joining us for one or more of the Conversations About Our Benedictine Spirituality: Humility sessions. These gatherings offer time for reflections, for the reading of short pieces on humility from the Rule of Benedict and other authors, an exploration of how Benedictine humility differs from our every day understandings of it, and conversations about the gifts and challenges of living this Benedictine value in our lives.
These sessions are open to any adult who relates to any of the Holy Wisdom Monastery communities.

Center for Clergy Renewal Gratitude Brunch
2025-06-29 10:05 - 11:30 | Holy Wisdom Monastery*, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Each year, 18 pastors from across the country come to Holy Wisdom to experience a Contemplative Immersion. At this Gratitude Brunch, you will have a chance to hear how they have been impacted by their time at Holy Wisdom Monastery.
Please join us for this uplifting event that takes place after Sunday Assembly worship on June 29 from 10:05-11:15 am in the Monastery Guest Dining Room. All are welcome.
Schedule
10:00-10:20 am – Transition from Sunday Assembly worship and get food
10:20 am – Welcome
10:30 am – Pastors share
Cost
There is no cost for participants to attend this event.
Registration
Please register by June 22, 2025, so we know how much food to prepare.

CCR Contemplative Renewal Immersion
2025-06-23 - 2025-06-30 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
The Center for Clergy Renewal’s (CCR) cohort 6 pastors will be here for their first immersion.
The Contemplative Renewal Immersions are designed to offer early and mid-career clergy the opportunity to nourish their spiritual center by developing life-long, covenantal relationships between clergy peers. These deep connections create spiritual companioning, renewal of calling, and revitalization within the congregations they serve. Participating clergy cohorts will be diverse in many ways including but not limited to age, gender identity, ethnicity, theological training, denominational affiliation, years in ministry, and spiritual practice.
Click here to learn more about the Clergy for Spiritual Renewal

Kids on the Prairie
2025-06-22 10:30 - 12:00 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Explore nature’s beauty and surprises!
Kids on the Prairie (KOTP) is for children and their adult family members. Experienced volunteer educators and guides will facilitate a short hike to learn about nature and explore the grounds and trails. This free event is open to members of Holy Wisdom communities and the general public.
June 22 – Explore Wisdom Prairie
See what’s blooming and buzzing. Look for flowers everywhere even on shrubs and conifers. Make a flower rubbing. How many different kinds of flowers will we find?

I Choose Peace – Sound Healing & Guided Meditation
2025-06-21 10:00 - 11:45 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Discover a transformative journey with I Choose Peace – Sound Healing & Guided Meditation. This uniquely enchanting guided meditative experience invites you to explore the depths of world peace through soothing poetry, the calming resonance of sound bowl healing, affirmations of peace and love and reflective journaling. It’s more than just meditation; it’s a pathway to self-love and a deeper connection with your heart and the Earth.
Whether you’re a seasoned meditator or completely new to the practice, this program offers a safe and accessible path to personal peace. We welcome all peace seekers ages 18 and above.
Be still, reconnect with yourself and contribute to a more peaceful world, one mindful moment at a time.
Embrace your path to peace and empowerment while nurturing your spirit and mind.
Join I Choose Peace to be in community with like-minded souls dedicated to making the world a better place.
We look forward to you joining us to experience the healing power of I Choose Peace and transform your life.
Please bring the following items to make the most of your meditation:

Comfortable clothing: breathable, flexible garments for various temperatures. Light layers are suggested.
Blanket, pillow, yoga mat: create a comfortable space to rest by having your own items to support your body needs.
Journal: any journal or notebook (and writing utensil) will do to capture your reflections.
Water bottle/personal beverage: hydrate!
Personal care items: natural toiletries, sunscreen and insect repellent (if meditation will be outside)
Any additional personal items you may require to comfortably sit or lay down for two hours.

Schedule
10:00-11:45 am – Sound Healing
12:00 pm – Lunch (optional)
Instructor – Takeyla Benton
Mystic on a mission, Takeyla Benton has spent 25 years unlocking her own divine potential – and now she’s here to help you do the same. With a lifetime of spiritually directed studies and personal experiences, Takeyla infuses her wisdom and passion for storytelling, holistic healing and spirit-centered self-mastery and divine love into her sacred soul work at Key Transformations. As a trusted guide, she offers transformative spiritual consultations, Goddess-guided Reiki energy and sound healing, empowering yoga and meditation coaching, notable podcasts and workshops  – empowering those “sick and tired of being sick and tired” to bravely live on purpose.
Dates/Times
Join us June 21, 2025 from 10:00-11:45 am. If you can’t make this date, consider coming at a later date. Takeyla will also offer a class on Sep. 20 from 10:00-11:45 am. More details coming soon.
Cost
$35/person
Register
The registration deadline is June 14, 2025, or when the registration reaches 30 people. There is no refund for cancellations.

The Houston Accordion Orchestra Concert
2025-06-20 18:30 - 20:00 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
For the past 10 years, Stas Venglevski has been the Artistic Director of the Houston Accordion Orchestra. He is bringing his group to Holy Wisdom Monastery in June for a retreat. They have so kindly offered to host a free concert for us on Friday, June 20 at 6:30 pm in the Assembly Room. Expect music by Danny Elfman, Russian and Japanese folk songs, original music by orchestra members, The Flight of the Bumblebee, and more …
We hope you can come!
Leader – Stas Venglevski
Stas Venglevski is a bayanist, composer, conductor, arranger, entertainer and a teacher and his extensive repertoire includes his original compositions and a broad range of classical, contemporary and ethnic music. He has toured extensively as a soloist throughout the former Soviet Union, Canada, Europe and the United States and most recently in South Africa. Numerous U.S. performances include performances with Doc Severinsen, Steve Allen and Garrison Keillor on the Prairie Home Companion Show. He has performed with symphony orchestras in Europe and throughout the United States, including the Anchorage, Grand Florida and Detroit symphony orchestras in the opera production of Frida, and with the University of Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra in 2003 for the official World Premiere of the Concerto No. 2 in D minor. It marked the first time the piece had been performed in its entirety with a symphony orchestra. He has performed the concerto on multiple occasions since, with the Tacoma, Colorado Jefferson and Racine symphony orchestras, and with that of Nurenberg, Germany. For over 25 years he has been a regular participant in the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra’s Arts in Community Education program (ACE). He’s done television commercials and performed in theater and opera productions; produced 31 recording albums, including a transcription of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite for Bayan, as well as original compositions. Additionally, he has published several books of original compositions. For the past 10 years he has been the Artistic Director of the Houston Accordion Orchestra Retreat and in 2021 he was named Artistic Director of A World of Accordions Museum (AWAM) in Superior, Wisconsin. He is a past President of the Accordionists and Teachers Guild and currently serves on its board. Most recently, he has joined the faculty of the Music Department of the University of Wisconsin, Superior, WI. In 2023, he established the Stas Venglevski Music Foundation, SVMF. The aim is to revolutionize the world of accordion by inspiring young people to embrace the fine arts, empowering them to create music, honing their performance skills as soloists and with orchestras, and giving them opportunities to compose and debut new music. In addition to the core mission, the foundation is committed to expanding public knowledge of art and music and supporting impactful cultural initiatives worldwide. In February of 2025, Stas performed at the prestigious Carnegie Hall.
Register
Please register by June 19, 2025.

Blessing and Rededication of Monastery Piano
2025-06-15 14:00 - 15:30 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Last year, the Monastery’s custom built Schimmel grand piano was refurbished with a generous gift from oblate and Sunday Assembly member Sherri Hansen in memory of her late husband, Scott Shimanski. Join us on Sunday, June 15th, at 2:00 pm for a free concert celebrating this gift to our community. There will also be a formal dedication of the instrument by Sister Lynne Smith, OSB.
Participants on the program will include Bill Frederick, Sherri Hansen, Grace Rosholt, George Teague and Patrick Terry. Works by Saint-Saëns, Bérlioz, Debussy, Schubert, Schumann and many more! Please join us for an afternoon reprieve and reverie in the midst of these angst-filled times, celebrating not only this gift, but the power of music to soothe, comfort, and heal.
Cost
There is no cost for this event
Register
Please register by June 14, 2025.

Spring Oblate Retreat & Promise Ceremony
2025-06-06 15:00 - 2025-06-08 12:00 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Reflecting, Revising, Renewing: Rededicating Ourselves to the Benedictine Rule
This event is open to Oblates of Holy Wisdom Monastery and Oblate Candidates. Registration on the oblate password protected site by clicking the button below. If you are an oblate of candidate and need the password, please contact Pam Shellberg at pshellberg@holywisdommonastery.org. Registration closes May 30, 2025.

Day of Rest & Reflection for Registered Nurses
2025-06-04 08:30 - 16:30 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
We understand how challenging and depleting it can be to be a healthcare worker when caring for others and having little time for yourself.
This day is designed specifically for registered nurses to rest and reflect on how their career choice brought them to where they are today. Your day will be guided by speakers who will offer you time to reflect with each other, feed your body with delicious food prepared by our chefs, and nourish your soul by exploring the grounds at Holy Wisdom Monastery.
Please join us as we honor the gift you are to so many others. May this day be a day away for you to be cared for. Dress for the outdoors.
Schedule
8:30 – 9:00 am – Coffee, tea, and muffins
9:00 – 9:15 am – Welcome & introduction to day
9:15 – 9:30 am – Icebreaker
9:30 – 9:45 am – Leader story
9:45 – 10:45 – Sharing our stories
10:45 – 11:00 am – Break
11:00 – 11:30 am – Brief history of the Sisters of Holy Wisdom Monastery and Benedictine spirituality
12:00 -1:00 pm – Lunch
1:00 -1:15 pm – What experience in your career was life-changing for you?
1:15 – 2:00 pm – Share your story
2:00 – 2:30 pm – Care for the Earth at Holy Wisdom Monastery
2:30 – 3:30 pm – Free time to walk the prairie/write in journals
3:45 pm – Spiritual /meditation activity. How this can be so beneficial as an everyday practice.
4:30 pm – Closing
Facilitator – Rita Emmenegger

Rita Emmenegger is a registered nurse who worked at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison, WI, for 35 years in pediatrics and obstetrics. She understands the challenges of choosing a career as a care-giver and not having the time to nourish one’s own body and spirit.

Cost
$60/person
Register
Please register below by May 28, 2025.

Forest Bathing Art Exhibit Reception
2025-05-30 18:00 - 20:00 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
The Japanese practice of Forest Bathing, or shinrin-yoku, is becoming a prevalent way for people to increase their well-being by connecting with the natural environment through their senses. This easily accessible activity can benefit all ages, and serves as a reminder to slow down and be mindful by simply immersing oneself in the sights, sounds, and smells of nature.
In Holy Wisdom’s new art exhibit, local artists Jennifer Peters and Annette Knapstein share their work inspired by Forest Bathing as a “tangible expression of our sensory experience in nature.” Please join us for the Forest Bathing Art Exhibit Reception on Friday, May 30, from 6:00 – 8:00 pm.
Schedule
6:00 pm – Reception begins | light refreshments will be served
6:30 pm – Artists give brief talk about their work and invite questions
8:00 pm – Reception ends
The exhibit is on display in the Gathering Area of the monastery from May 21 – July 21, 2025. Gallery hours are Tuesday – Friday, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm (excluding holidays) and Sunday 10:00 – 11:00 am.
Artists – Annette Knapstein and Jennifer Peters

“My family always encouraged creativity whether it was in music, art or any other endeavor.”
Annette Knapstein grew up in Oregon, Wisconsin, and now lives in Middleton. Annette earned a degree in Economics and worked in advertising and marketing for more than 30 years. “I definitely used my love for the visual arts in my career,” she laughed. Initially a photographer, Annette began exploring colored pencils, watercolors, and acrylic painting several years ago. “My work is based on my impression of what I see, rather than making an exact replica. My intention is to reflect how I feel about what I am experiencing and seeing.” During COVID, Annette spent a lot of time at Pheasant Branch Conservancy. “Being out in nature gave so much back to me – it was my safe refuge.”

Jennifer Peters, an expressionist photographer, said her work in this exhibit is quite different than the show she had at the monastery in 2017. “The photographs in this exhibit are much more ephemeral, serene, and delicate. By exploring a softer focus on what I experience in nature, the painterly aspect of our natural world is revealed, allowing us to see details that may go unnoticed.” Jennifer attended Stevens College in Columbia, Missouri where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, majoring in piano. She earned a Master of Fine Arts degree at UW-Madison. Jennifer taught French at Blackhawk Middle School for 31 years and retired in 2011. Jennifer has always taken photographs, has exhibited throughout the area and participated in art fairs for years. Jennifer volunteers curating the art exhibits at Holy Wisdom and several other local venues.

Registration
Please register by May 28, 2025, in order to have enough refreshments. Thank you!

Kids on the Prairie
2025-05-18 10:30 - 12:00 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Explore nature’s beauty and surprises!
Kids on the Prairie (KOTP) is for children and their adult family members. Experienced volunteer educators and guides will facilitate a short hike to learn about nature and explore the grounds and trails. This free event is open to members of Holy Wisdom communities and the general public.
May 18 – Birds and Binoculars
Families will have an opportunity to watch birds, move like a Sandhill Crane, and peek in on a Bluebird nest. We’ll have kid friendly binoculars for kids to try. Migration is happening. What are all those birds eating?

I Choose Peace – Sound Healing & Guided Meditation
2025-05-17 10:00 - 11:45 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Discover a transformative journey with I Choose Peace – Sound Healing & Guided Meditation. This uniquely enchanting guided meditative experience invites you to explore the depths of world peace through soothing poetry, the calming resonance of sound bowl healing, affirmations of peace and love and reflective journaling. It’s more than just meditation; it’s a pathway to self-love and a deeper connection with your heart and the Earth.
Whether you’re a seasoned meditator or completely new to the practice, this program offers a safe and accessible path to personal peace. We welcome all peace seekers ages 18 and above.
Be still, reconnect with yourself and contribute to a more peaceful world, one mindful moment at a time.
Embrace your path to peace and empowerment while nurturing your spirit and mind.
Join I Choose Peace to be in community with like-minded souls dedicated to making the world a better place.
We look forward to you joining us to experience the healing power of I Choose Peace and transform your life.
Please bring the following items to make the most of your meditation:

Comfortable clothing: breathable, flexible garments for various temperatures. Light layers are suggested.
Blanket, pillow, yoga mat: create a comfortable space to rest by having your own items to support your body needs.
Journal: any journal or notebook (and writing utensil) will do to capture your reflections.
Water bottle/personal beverage: hydrate!
Personal care items: natural toiletries, sunscreen and insect repellent (if meditation will be outside)
Any additional personal items you may require to comfortably sit or lay down for two hours.

Schedule
10:00-11:45 am – Sound Healing
12:00 pm – Lunch (optional)
Instructor – Takeyla Benton
Mystic on a mission, Takeyla Benton has spent 25 years unlocking her own divine potential – and now she’s here to help you do the same. With a lifetime of spiritually directed studies and personal experiences, Takeyla infuses her wisdom and passion for storytelling, holistic healing and spirit-centered self-mastery and divine love into her sacred soul work at Key Transformations. As a trusted guide, she offers transformative spiritual consultations, Goddess-guided Reiki energy and sound healing, empowering yoga and meditation coaching, notable podcasts and workshops  – empowering those “sick and tired of being sick and tired” to bravely live on purpose.
Dates/Times
Join us May 17, 2025 from 10:00-11:45 pm. If you can’t make this date, consider coming at a later date. Takeyla will also offer classes on June 21 and Sep. 20. More details coming soon.
Cost
$35/person
Register
The registration deadline is May 10, 2025, or when the registration reaches 30 people. There is no refund for cancellations.

Willow Wisdom: A Rooted and Flowing Qigong Practice
2025-05-16 15:00 - 17:00 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Willow Wisdom Qigong* teaches us how to stay rooted and centered while navigating the challenges and chaos of life with flexibility and ease. This workshop will include a traditional Qigong movement practice along with time for a brief meditation and self-reflection.
Qigong recognizes our interconnectedness with all beings and draws wisdom from our natural surroundings, so please come prepared to do a significant portion of the workshop outdoors, weather permitting.
All ability levels welcome. Can be performed standing or seated in casual attire. Please bring a journal/notebook.
*Qigong (Chee-gong) is an ancient form of moving meditation that uses flowing movements, breath exercises, meditation and tapping to boost energy, relieve stress, and balance your emotions. As a holistic health or “whole being” practice, it addresses all of who you are: mind, body, and spirit. ‘Qi’ means energy and ‘Gong’ means skill or cultivation; thus Qigong is the skill of cultivating your life-force energy.
Schedule
3:00 pm – Introductions and workshop overview
3:15 pm – Willow Wisdom Qigong practices outdoors (weather permitting) intertwined with a brief forest bathing practice and journaling
4:40 pm – Indoor meditation, integration and closing
5:00 pm – Workshop ends
5:15 pm – Optional dinner with workshop facilitator
Instructor – Sandy Salvo

Sandy Salvo is a Qigong instructor, mindfulness meditation teacher, retreat planner and facilitation consultant. She has devoted her life to encouraging authentic connections and valuing relationships. Sandy teaches weekly Qigong classes both online and in-person and is currently focusing her energy on sharing Qigong and other mindfulness practices outdoors whenever possible. She is certified through the Institute of Integral Qigong and Tai Chi and founder of Centered-Connections.com. Sandy has graciously offered to lead three Qigong workshops at Holy Wisdom Monastery, with all proceeds from the classes going to the monastery.
Cost
This is the 3rd Qigong experience led by Sandy Salvo at the monastery. To end the series we are offering an optional dinner after the class with Sandy.
$35/person, program only
$57/person, program and dinner
All proceeds go to Holy Wisdom Monastery.
Register
Register by Wed., May 14, 2025, with the button below. The registration fee is non-refundable.

Spring Solar Tilt
2025-05-13 15:00 - 16:30 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Join us on May 13, 2025 | 3:00-4:30 pm
We are looking for 90 people to help tilt the solar panels at Holy Wisdom Monastery
Holy Wisdom Monastery is proudly a net-zero facility, having implemented solar energy and geothermal heating and cooling in 2024 in our Retreat & Guest House.
You are invited to participate in the Spring Solar Tilt, a hands-on, community event where we gather together to celebrate solar energy, honor the changing seasons and pray for the earth. Participants had so much fun last year that we decided to make it an annual event!
Watch the video below to learn how to tilt the solar panels

The 30-panel array can be tilted vertically or horizontally, depending on the season. The panels are currently in their more vertical position which helps to shed snow and catch the lower winter sun more efficiently. They must be manually hand-cranked by teams of three people into their flat spring/summer orientation. Individuals and teams from the community and local businesses are invited to be part of the 2nd annual tilt event as participants or spectators.
Join us as one of 90 volunteers who will help to tilt Holy Wisdom’s solar panels! Or come watch and join us in prayer for climate change. Register below to let us know you’ll be coming.
We will begin in the Monastery Assembly Room at 3:00 pm before going outside to begin tilting. Parking space may be limited, so bring your friends, but please carpool if you can. Please dress for the weather.
Cost
There is no cost for this event unless you sign up to stay for dinner at 5:15 pm after the tilting. Since the event is ending just before dinner, we thought some participants may want to purchase dinner at the monastery, and enjoy a delicious meal and conversations with other tilt participants.
$0 – Tilt participant or observer
$22 – Tilt participant or observer plus optional dinner
Register
Please register below by May 6, 2025.

Great WI Birdathon
2025-05-10 06:00 - 14:00 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
The Great Wisconsin Birdathon is Wisconsin’s largest fundraiser for bird conservation. Each year bird enthusiasts from across the state form teams with the goal of finding as many unique bird species as possible while raising important funds for bird conservation.
Holy Wisdom Monastery is participating in this event for the fifth time this year! We hope you’ll support our team ‘Wrens of Wisdom Prairie’ in our efforts to find as many bird species as possible on our property on May 10th.
There are several ways to participate:
Join us for a birding tour or ‘sit’
We are offering four walking tours. Group size will be limited to 10 participants. Tour options include 6:30 am, 8:00 am, 10:00 am and noon.
We are also offering a birding ‘sit, at 7:30 am in which we’ll make ourselves comfy on a bench or platform overlooking Lost Lake and observe activity from that spot, with minimal walking involved.
Birders of all ages and experience levels are welcome at all tours and sit.
Come birding on your own
We invite you to come explore the monastery property Saturday, May 10th on your own, and keep track of the birds you see and hear. Submit your list of species to Amy Alstad, aalstad@holywisdommonastery.org or 608-836-1631, x123.
Support Wrens of Wisdom Prairie by making a financial contribution
All of the dollars raised will directly support bird conservation. Half of the funds raised will stay at Holy Wisdom Monastery and be used to create and maintain bird habitat here, with the remaining funds going to the Natural Resources Foundation.

The Great Search 3
2025-05-01 16:00 - 2025-05-03 13:00 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
“The Great Search gathering is a reminder of the divine hospitality that calls us into a deeper relationship with God, with the Earth, and with each other. Filled with a kind of reckless love, one leaves feeling restored and committed to bringing hope and healing to all life. The combination of John Philip’s teaching, the spiritual practices led by Cami, and the peaceful and beautiful surroundings of Holy Wisdom Monastery offers a personal and community guide to contemplation and spiritual growth.”
–Catherine Maciariello, The Great Search 2, 2024 participant

The Great Search 3
We hope you can join us at Holy Wisdom Monastery for The Great Search 3 from May 1-3, 2025.
In 2022 John Philip Newell began a second series of annual retreats to address the deep spiritual yearnings of this moment in time and to help give birth to new beginnings in our lives and world.
The Great Search 3 is the third of a three-part series of annual retreats led by the Celtic teacher John Philip Newell and his colleague Cami Twilling in which we explore the search for wisdom, the search for meaning, and the search for faith.
The teachings of this retreat are based on John Philip Newell’s new book The Great Search: Turning to Earth & Soul in the Quest for Healing & Home (especially Chapters 7, 8, and 9 drawing on the wisdom of Rabindranath Tagore, Etty Hillesum, and Edwin Muir).
The text for this three-year program is John Philip Newell’s new book The Great Search (August 2024). The shared prayer book for this program is Praying with the Earth.
The Great Search 3 can be taken as a stand-alone retreat or in conjunction with The Great Search 1 and The Great Search 2 which can be attended in any order and at any of our retreat centers across the country or online.
For more information about John Philip Newell, Earth and Soul or The Great Search initiative, visit https://www.earthandsoul.org.
For more information about the retreat at Holy Wisdom Monastery, contact Pam Shellberg at pshellberg@holywisdommonastery.org or 608-836-1631, x126.
Schedule
Thursday – May 1

3:00 pm
Tour of Holy Wisdom Monastery and Grounds
Gathering Area

4:00-5:00 pm
Check-In/Getting Settled
Gathering Area

5:15 pm
Dinner
Dining Room

*6:30 pm
Evening Prayer (please enter in silence)
Assembly Room

*7:15 pm
Session 1: Introductory Presentation
Assembly Room

8:30 pm
Sacred Silence (until breakfast)

Friday – May 2

*8:30 am
Morning Prayer (enter in silence)
Assembly Room

9:00 am
Break

*9:15 am
Session 2: Teaching I (enter in silence)
Assembly Room

10:15 am
Morning Break

*10:45 am
Session 3: Spiritual Practice I (enter in silence)
Assembly Room

12:00 pm
Lunch
Dining Room

1:30 pm
Silence (Siesta/Reading/Walking)

*3:30 pm
Session 4: Spiritual Practice II (enter in silence)
Assembly Room

4:45 pm
Afternoon Break

5:15 pm
Dinner
Assembly Room

*6:30 pm
Session 5: Teaching II (enter in silence)
Assembly Room

7:30 pm
Wine & Cheese Reception & Book Signing
Gathering Area

Saturday – May 3

*8:30 am
Morning Prayer (enter in silence)
Assembly Room

9:00 am
Break

*9:15 am
Session 6: Teaching III (enter in silence)
Assembly Room

10:15 am
Morning Break

*10:45 am
Session 7: Thanksgiving (enter in silence)
Assembly Room

12:00 pm
Lunch
Dining Room

Leaders – John Philip Newell and Cami Twilling

John Philip Newell
John Philip Newell is an internationally renowned Celtic teacher and author of spirituality who calls the modern world to reawaken to the sacredness of Earth and every human being.
Canadian by birth, and also Scottish, he resides with his wife Ali in the ecovillage of Findhorn in Scotland. In 2016 he began the Earth & Soul initiative and teaches regularly in the United States and Canada as well as leading international pilgrimage weeks on Iona in the Western Isles of Scotland.
His PhD is from the University of Edinburgh and he has authored over 15 books, including his award-winning publication, Sacred Earth Sacred Soul, which was the 2022 Gold Winner of the Nautilus Book Award for Spirituality and Religious Thought of the West. His new book, also with HarperOne, is The Great Search (August 2024), in which he looks at the great spiritual yearnings of humanity today in the context of the decline of religion as we have known it.
Newell speaks of himself as ‘a wandering teacher’ following the ancient path of many lone teachers before him in the Celtic tradition, seeking the wellbeing of the world. He has been described as having ‘the heart of a Celtic bard and the mind of a Celtic scholar’, combining in his teachings the poetic and the intellectual, the head as well as the heart, and spiritual awareness as well as political and ecological concern.
Cami Twilling
Cami Twilling, based in Colorado, is the Director of Earth & Soul (a Celtic initiative of study, spiritual practice and compassionate action inspired by the teachings of John Philip Newell). As well as heading up the overall work of Earth & Soul, she facilitates the spiritual practice component of the Earth & Soul Retreats. In addition to leading mountain and urban retreats, she has led international pilgrimage groups to Iona in the Western Isles of Scotland and work teams to Guatemala to build houses in communities that have suffered from political strife and economic hardship. Cami is passionate about the relationship between spirituality and action and believes that spiritual vision and practice can play a vital role in helping to heal and transform our lives both individually and together.
Dates/Times
4:00 pm, Thursday, May 1 – 1:00 pm, Saturday, May 3, 2025
Cost
$360/person, includes program and meals, Thurs. dinner, Fri. lunch and dinner, Fri. book signing and reception, Sat. lunch; does NOT include lodging.
Limited scholarships are available. Please contact Pam Shellberg at pshellberg@holywisdommonastery.org or 608-836-1631, x126.
Lodging
Lodging is NOT included in the price of the retreat.

Lodging at Holy Wisdom Monastery is now full.
We have a block of hotel rooms at Baymont Inn & Suites, 8102 Excelsior Dr, Madison, WI 53717, for $72 per night. Please contact the hotel directly to reserve your room at 608-831-7711. The block is under: Holy Wisdom – The Great Search.

View photos from 2023 and 2024

Register
Please register with the button below by April 24, 2025.
Cancellation policy – if you register but must cancel your registration, you can receive a 75% refund up until Apr. 24, 2025. After that, a 50% refund is available until the retreat starts.

Wisdom Prairie Spring Tour
2025-04-24 13:00 - 15:00 | Holy Wisdom Monastery, 4200 County Road M, Middleton, WI, 53562, United States
Join us for an experience for everyone to explore the seasonal beauty found on the monastery grounds in spring. Experienced tour guides will share the story of Caring for the Earth and help participants deepen their relationship with this land.
Meet at the kiosk in the monastery building parking lot. Tours will last 1-2 hours. We will proceed with the tour in the event of light to moderate rain but cancel for thunderstorms or other severe weather.
Cost
There is no cost to participants for this tour. Donations to Care for the Earth are always welcome.
Register
Please register with the button below so we have enough tour guides and can contact you in case we need to cancel due to weather.
