The Monastery of the Holy Spirit is now one of the biggest tourism sites in Rockdale County People come to walk the now 2300 beautiful, peaceful acres. It is part of the larger 8000 acre Arabia Mountain Heritage area, which also includes Panola Mountain State Park.  There is an Abbey Store, a beautiful bonsai garden and a café.

The Monastic Heritage Center is made up of  the old barn, the visitors center and the Memorial Plaza, with its flowers and sculpture. In the old barn you can see  displays, exhibits and videos about life at the monastery. You can learn the history of monasticism in the visitor center. There is no admission charge, but donations are encouraged.

One of the goals of the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance, also known as Trappist, is to be self-sufficient. The monks here grow their own food and earn money through sales at the gift store and the bonsai nursery. Specialties at the gift store include monastery made stained glass, fudge , cookies and fruitcake. (There are plenty of other items as well.) Feel free to fall in love with the beautiful bonsai – you can buy them, or buy supplies and make your own.

Another part of the acreage is Honey Creek Woodlands, a natural /conservation burial ground. Natural burial involves no embalming fluids or vaults – simply a wood casket or shroud. It is also a place for cremated remains. 

The University of Georgia Collegium Musicum will present a concert at the Monastery entitled “An Afternoon of Musical Gems from the Renaissance and Baroque” at 3 November 13. There is no admission but seats must be reserved.

How about some special Christmas music for the season? The Atlanta Boy Choir will present its annual “A Christmas Concert at the Monastery” at 7 p.m. December 10. (Tickets are $20 ($15 for students/seniors.) Look for the Concerts link at the Monastery’s site for reservations.