BildungsZentrum St. Benedikt

The BildungsZentrum St. Benedikt is an institution of the Diocese of St. Pölten in cooperation with the Benedictine Abbey of Seitenstetten. It has been operating as a centre for adult education in the western Mostviertel region since 1993. Our educational work is based on the principles of Catholic adult education.

We aim to open up a cosmopolitan Christian spirituality to our visitors as an essential source of strength for coping with life and shaping society.

Our educational programme aims to accompany people on their way to becoming self-determined personalities who are ready to take on responsibility in church and society. Our main areas of focus are: Religion and spirituality, social policy and ecology, life guidance and personal development, creativity, culture and exhibitions.

We cultivate hospitality in the spirit of St Benedict and treat people and resources with respect. We provide a personal atmosphere with a professional and contemporary infrastructure and endeavour to operate ecologically. For catering, we prefer products from the region and from near-natural agriculture. The garden as an oasis for our guests is of particular importance.
 

During their stay at the education centre, ‘something happens’ to people: their horizons, perspectives, attitudes and approaches change.

Through their participation in a seminar, their encounters with others and the discussions in the group, they are empowered: to shape their own lives, to take responsibility in society and to develop their own talents. The way in which the team works and interacts also has an impact on the guests.

In addition to these barely measurable effects, there are also visible effects: For example, the market town of Seitenstetten joined the Climate Alliance at the suggestion of a series of ecological events. The ‘spreading’ and ‘setting’ of topics has its effects. Speakers from the region also have the opportunity to enter this field. The various seminars and workshops enable people to expand their skills, whether in the personal, social or creative fields.

The BildungsZentrum St. Benedikt has a strong network in the region. Educational events are regularly organised in cooperation with communities, socio-political initiatives, the Leader region, church groups and individuals. This is also visible in the presence in the local media and in the fact that cooperation is often sought by the various partner organisations.

Living from strong roots -
with an open heart -
and broad horizons. 
 

Religion and spirituality | Personal development and life coaching | Social policy and sustainability | Creativity, culture and exhibitions