Visit
The Center for Benedictine Life at the Monastery of St. Gertrude includes a Benedictine community of vowed women religious and lay people who intentionally strive to manifest Benedictine spirituality and inclusive hospitality in the world. People of all backgrounds are welcomed, with a focus on what brings us together more than what separates us. Getting HereWhat’s Happening at St. Gertrude’s?
Spirit Center Retreats
Spirit Center draws upon the core values of the Center for Benedictine Life at the Monastery of St. Gertrude — Healing Hospitality, Grateful Simplicity and Creative Peacemaking — in its role as a center for the exploration and promotion of the arts, spirituality, history, and social justice. Contemplative space is offered for learning, renewal and crucial conversation, extending partnerships with others to create a better world.
Responding to the world’s profound hunger for depth and meaning, our spirituality ministry nurtures and supports the individual spiritual journey of all faith traditions. Rooted in Benedictine spirituality, certified spiritual direction is available, along with private and group retreats. Inviting inner transformation and deeper connection with the Creator, each person is welcomed into this sacred space.
St. Gertrude’s L.I.v.e.
Community is an essential aspect of Benedictine life. In the very first chapter of the Rule, St. Benedict issues harsh words for monks wandering in worldly ways without the support of an intentional community. The rural location of many monasteries and the day-to-day commitments of most people conspire to limit regular access to Benedictine communities. St. Gertrude’s L.I.V.E. (Living In a Virtual Environment) extends a virtual bridge to dispersed Benedictines. These virtual programs offer opportunities to learn, grown, apply, and share aspects of the Benedictine life and monastic spirituality when you are unable to visit the Center for Benedictine Life at the Monastery of St. Gertrude in person.
Museum
Our mission is to preserve the rich heritage of the Monastery of St. Gertrude, Camas Prairie, Snake River, Salmon River, and surrounding areas. View special exhibits, including the stories of the Benedictine Sisters, the Nez Perce tribe, and fascinating local characters such as Polly Bemis and Buckskin Bill. Visit a replica of the original attic museum created by Sister Alfreda Elsensohn, celebrated Idaho historian and foundress of the Historical Museum at St. Gertrude. Join in the fun at the annual Raspberry Social fundraiser, attend the Lecture Series, and participate in other fun and educational family events.
Inn at st. gertrude’s
Welcome to Benedictine hospitality on the Camas Prairie!
Open year-round, The Inn at St. Gertrude offers four well-appointed, air conditioned rooms with pillow-top mattresses and private baths. Each non-smoking room features beautiful antiques, warm inviting colors and outdoor living space, along with a flatscreen TV and wireless internet access.
Enjoy monastery-made jam, bread, and desserts. Celebrate your anniversary and other special occasions in warmth and tranquility.
Concerts
Check out the upcoming concerts!
Raspberry social
Join in the festivities on August 6, 2023, set against the beautiful background of the Monastery of St. Gertrude in Cottonwood, Idaho.