Summer Surf Monastery

Summer Surf Monastery 2021

Over the summer of 2021, we want to bring together two of the best things about Sister Eveleen Retreat House: (1) its mission as a house of spiritual help and prayer, and (2) its proximity to a beautiful surf beach. So why not plant a 'Surf Monastery?' Now we need some people to come and help make it a reality. Between January 3 and April 4, 2021, we're asking people to come and stay for 4-weeks at a time as residents. Residents will be charged a reduced rate, and will both participate in the Surf Monastery and help run it. 

The Surf Monastery will have a unique rhythm of life. We're still planning out the details but most days will look something like this:

5 am - 630 am: Dawn Surf (optional - mainly for the super-enthusiastic)

7 am - 12 pm: Morning Prayer/Meditation, Breakfast, Work

12 pm - 6 pm: Midday Prayer/Meditation, Lunch, Surfing, Hiking, Creating.

6 pm - 9 pm: Evening Prayer/Meditation, Dinner, Evening Surf, Socialising.

Who is it for?

The ideal resident for the Surf Monastery will be someone looking to deepen their relationship with themselves and God first and surf second (this isn't a surf crash-pad). Perhaps you had wanted to go on an overseas adventure in 2021 and are now looking for something closer to home. Sister Eveleen's ministry is rooted in the Christian contemplative tradition, so you should also be prepared to develop a daily contemplative prayer practice.

However, you don't necessarily need to be a Christian or a surfer. If spending a month focusing on your spiritual life in an idyllic location sounds like your idea of heaven, then we'd like to hear from you! This won't be a place where we push a particular dogma or theology on you. Sister Eveleen House is an open space for people to explore their relationship with God. If you have any questions about this please get in touch.

How much will it cost and when is this happening?

The Summer Surf Monastery will run from January 4 - April 4, 2021. During that time we'll be looking for 3 people at a time to stay over the following periods:

Monday, January 4 -  Sunday, January 31

Monday, February 1 - Sunday, February 28

Monday, March 1 - Sunday, March 28

The cost for each resident will be $295 per week which includes dinner. So a resident will pay $1,180 for all four weeks. Breakfast and lunch and any expenses related to things like hiring surf gear will need to be covered by each resident.

UPDATE: We've had a few people ask about staying for shorter periods. While we're ideally looking for people to stay for the dates indicated above, we're keen to hear from anyone looking to stay with us for at least two weeks - just get in touch via the details below. 

Sounds awesome, how do I apply?

To book your place in the Summer Surf Monastery simply book your 'ticket' for the period you'd like to attend. Once you register you'll be invoiced for a one-week, non-refundable deposit, with the rest being invoiced the month before your stay. If you would like to take part but have trouble with the cost upfront, please contact Eddie (Director - Sister Eveleen House). 

If you have any questions or need anything clarified please contact Eddie on 022 563 6879 or sister.e.retreat@gmail.com