What Hotels Could Learn from Monks

A Visit to St. John’s Abbey
Located less than a two-hour drive northwest of Minneapolis/St. Paul along I-94, St. John’s Abbey sits on twenty-six acres of land near Lake Sagatagan in Minnesota’s scenic farmlands.
In late March, with light snow falling sideways, a visit to the Abbey revealed the impressive Abbey Church as one approaches along a grand driveway. Designed by Marcel Breuer in the 1950s, the massive cement structure stands as a testament to faith that is both striking and raw in its beauty.
The Abbey features a “Bell Banner” that rings for prayer three times daily, a captivating sight that embodies its intention and significance.
A Monastery with a Hidden Hotel
My task was to assist Brother Benedict, a Benedictine Monk, in enhancing the sales performance of the “Guest House” hotel at St. John’s Abbey. Despite not being Catholic myself, my focus was on helping Brother Benedict achieve a modest profit to sustain the operations.
Brother Benedict, who oversees a community of 90 Monks at the Abbey, faces the challenge of managing the monastery, supporting a group of creative Monks, and ensuring financial stability while maintaining a steadfast commitment to prayer.
The Guest House, with its thirty rooms, is described as a jewel box of hospitality, designed for solitude and reflection. The property, unchanged for fourteen years, offers a serene atmosphere with minimalistic furnishings and stunning views of the lake.
Brother Benedict and Brother Isidore manage the hotel operations with excellence, providing guests with a hospitable experience that reflects the Benedictine values of service and compassion.
Lessons from Monastic Living
Brother Benedict’s unwavering faith, financial acumen, and compassionate spirit exemplify the principles of Benedictine life. His ability to navigate the complexities of running a monastery and a hotel while upholding the mission of serving others is truly remarkable.
As I departed from St. John’s Abbey, Brother Benedict expressed a desire to seek my advice in the future, highlighting the mutual respect and collaboration that had developed between us.
In conclusion, the experience at St. John’s Abbey underscored valuable lessons that extend beyond the realm of hospitality, emphasizing the importance of faith, perseverance, laughter, and discipline in achieving one’s mission.