Fall in the Northwest -- spectacular!!  Lovely vistas abound at every turn, but we had a special experience recently on a drive north as we enjoyed a pilgrimmage to view sacred artifacts and experience Evening Vespers and Benediction at Westminster Abbey, a Benedictine monastery and site of the Seminary of Christ the King in Mission, British Columbia.

Westminister Abbey is the home of a group of men who are dedicating their lives to God.  It is a brotherhood of priests and laymen who, after a period of apprenticeship, have become permanent members of a Christian community where they follow the monastic rule of St. Benedict, adapting it to the needs of today.

The monastery, abbey grounds, farms, and seminary campus sit on 200 acres high above the Fraser River, with the Canadian Rockies to the north and Mt. Baker rising majestically to the south.  The lovely grounds lead one to contemplation and meditation.  In addition to the four daily worship services open to the public, there are accommodations for those who may wish to spend a few days in quiet retreat.

St. Benedict wrote in his Rule that there will always be guests at a monastery.  We found an atmosphere of peace and Christian witness that is an invitation to reflection and prayer in addition to the constant presence of a living Christian community.  There were hundreds joining us as we toured the grounds and facilities and then joined together for the worship service.