All nine hermitages are stand alone “earth homes” with one exception. All were assigned a unique name when built. In the past few years seven hermitages were fully renovated. Two hermitages remain offline undergoing full renovations.
River Views
High above the Mississippi are three “earth home” hermitages facing the river: Emmaus, Tree of Life, and Glimpse of Glory. These were the first to be built and are smaller in size. All have the same layout, furnishings and views of the river.
There is no development on the Illinois side across from us. Sunrises, clouds and the river water are new each day. River barges glide by at all hours. A single track rail line on which freight moves is at the bottom of the bluffs.
Wooded Views
Other hermitages are built into a high bluff facing into the woods: Jesus is Lord and Upper Room (above it), Holy Trinity and Beautiful Earth.
These offer quiet, private views of deep and wooded ravines. Deer and wild turkeys move about. Seasonal color changes are mesmerizing.
Furnished for Comfort and Solitude
Each hermitage has a simple layout with comfortable furnishings offering privacy and solitude. A single bed, desk and chair, rocking chair and bench outline the space. A shower, toilet and vanity are curtained off. A kitchen corner with microwave oven, refrigerator, toaster, coffee maker, and utensils offers a space to prepare one’s meals.
Visio Divina (“Sacred Seeing”)
Each hermitage includes scripturally based artwork related to its name that was selected to help guests settle into meditation and focused prayer. Throughout the property, inside and outside, there are places for meditation and contemplation.
The Crucifix above the river beckons at all times
The Tabernacle Crucifix corpus is 600 year old olive wood from the Holy Land
