Introduction
The Weyst was founded in November 1984 in the former Capuchin monastry in Handel, based on the ideas and practice of Mahatma Gandhi, Lanza del Vasto and the peace and ecology movement. With an organic and fruit orchard the Weyst strives for self-sufficency. The name the Weyst was chosen by the last abbot of the monastary for our project. The Weyst is a local underground water stream, quietly flowing. The Weyst symbolizes our tie to our local community: a stream going it's own way, restful, continuing and at times coming above ground.
Anno 2008 the Weyst still functions as a retreat accomodation for a wide diversity of groups. Dance, song, meditation, laughter, sharing and enjoyment are present throughout the halls and rooms of the Weyst. Our meals are vegetarian, using our own organic products. Our bread is baked in a wood heated oven.
Since 1992 the Weyst serves as a work place for the Dutch government alternative social sanctions program. More than 1.000 persons have completed here succesfully their alternative punishment hours.
We also recieve other guests and Woofers to help us in the garden and house. This former monastary built in 1850 is always looking for new friends to help keep it up in good shape! New volunteers are welcome. Contact us before coming at: S_Bachrach@hotmail.com
English can be found at the pages about: Stories of the Creation, photos and contact.