We spent four unforgettable days in the Franciscan community at Monte Lussari. This special place provided the ideal setting to unite faith, nature, and community.

At the heart of our stay were the community and the time spent together. Shared times of prayer and worship gave us moments of reflection, gratitude, and inner peace. Rudi Rumpel gave us food for thought with his two presentations on patience and contentment. At the same time, there was ample opportunity to discover the impressive mountain landscape on shared hikes. A special experience was the ascent to the summit cross. The climb required some endurance, but the expansive view and the arrival made this moment a highlight.
We were also fortunate to witness the blessing of the St. John’s Fire on 23 June.

In addition to the spiritual and physical activities, it was above all the community that left its mark. In conversations, during shared meals, and on the hiking trails, a warm atmosphere emerged, sustained by mutual appreciation and joy.

A very special atmosphere descended each day from 5:30 PM onwards. With the last gondola ride, the day visitors left the mountain, and Monte Lussari became quiet. This silence was something quite special. The evenings in the stillness invited us to let the impressions of the day resonate, to consciously perceive the beauty of nature, and to be close to God in a very simple way.

Thus, these four days became a valuable retreat from everyday life—filled with prayer, community, movement, and restorative silence. With many beautiful memories, new encounters, and strengthened in faith, we began our journey home.

Photos and text: Cornelia Guldner