St Andrew's Abbey of Zevenkerken - Loppem

“Idleness is the enemy of the soul; and therefore the brothers must be engaged in manual labor at certain times and also at certain times with spiritual reading.”

(Rule of Benedict)

The above quote points to Saint Benedict's concern for a balanced rhythm of life. The well-known saying “Ora et labora” – “Pray and work” – summarizes this briefly.
This double wave is also recognizable in the daily order of Zevenkerken. Several hours are devoted to prayer and association with God's Word.
Other hours are spent on all kinds of activities: household chores; reception; a secondary school; art studios; library; publications; conferences and reflection days; spiritual guidance; administration; the leadership of the abbey.

“All guest visitors must be received as Christ Himself...”

(Rule of Benedict)

The reception facilities of the abbey are open to all those who are looking for refreshment, deepening, peace and quiet : young and old, lay people, priests, religious.

You can visit the abbey for a stay of one or more days, individually or in a group.

During the year, the abbey also organizes reflection days, weekends and conferences.

The Bistro Zevenkerken is a self-service with an orchard as a terrace.
You can go there for a piece of cake, a sandwich, a dish Zevenkerken
(assortment of charcuterie and monastic cheeses), a fresh pancake (from 2 pm), ...
or for an abbey beer.

Dom Théodore Nève, the first abbot of Zevenkerken, had a dream: a female branch with openness to mission. It became the Bethany Priory, founded in 1921 , which in turn undertook many foundations.

Willem Vandenameele