Exploring Contemplation + Mysticism Through a Queer Lens
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Redwoods Monastery • Whitethorn, CA
The Redwoods Abbey was founded in 1962, when the founding sisters arrived during the winter, to see if they could withstand the trials of weather. Now over 50 years later it turns out they could withstand the winter. Through my interactions with these sisters, in words and experiences, the common theme of non-judgment arose; it Read more
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Santa Rita Abbey • Sonoita, AZ
Amongst the patchwork of desert and grasses, sunlight and shade, lies a small Monastery of 10 nuns just 20 miles north of the border of Mexico, just south of Tucson, AZ. This delightful location not only produces a perfect setting for solitude, but nearly demands it of one if they were to spend any amount Read more
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New Clairvaux Abbey • Vina, CA
Hearing the train go by throughout the day and night was such a sound of comfort that I welcomed while staying at New Clairvaux. Established in 1955 by monks of the Abbey of Gethesamani who were expanding, this monastery is located on the grounds of one of the largest wineries and vineyards in the world. Read more
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Abbey of Our Lady of the Holy Trinity • Huntsville, UT
Coming to the Abbey of Our Lady of the Holy Trinity felt like discovering and participating in an unknown treasure of the world. Similar to the monastery in Snowmass, Holy Trinity is tucked away in the midst of mountains. There were numerous times I walked outside to find the monastery and myself standing in a Read more
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St. Benedict’s Abbey • Snowmass, CO
St. Benedict’s Abbey is delightfully tucked away in the mountains of Snowmass, Colorado. The view, fresh air and incredible sunshine was a nice change after the recently overcast skies. Coming across St. Benedict’s Abbey was like arriving at a silver lining – both in appearance and experience. Not because Snowmass seemed ‘better’ or ‘more beautiful,’ Read more
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Our Lady Of The Mississippi Abbey • Dubuque, IA
Because of wanting to spend some time at home while I was near, I chose to not stay at Our Lady of the Mississippi (OLM) very long. However, I did get to attend Sext (midday prayer) and briefly speak with a sister to let her know I would love to return again soon for a Read more
What would it mean to queer contemplation? To disentangle contemplative spirituality from heteronormativity, patriarchy, and Eurocentricity, and instead engage with openness, curiosity, and a little weirdness?
Queering Contemplation: Finding Queerness in the Roots and Future of Contemplative Spirituality
Contemplation
Contemplation as a daily practice of reflection + action.
Mysticism
Mysticism as an accessible encounter of interconnection to self + others + the Divine.
Activism
Social Justice activism as the pursuit of love + liberation for all.
“Many poets are not poets for the same reason that many religious people are not saints: they never succeed in being themselves…”
— Thomas Merton, New Seeds of Contemplation
Dr. Cassidy Hall, DMin, MDiv, MTS, MA 