Suaimhneas

Suaimhneas is a small day retreat centre situated 3 minutes’ drive from exit 15 on the M7 Emo Portlaoise

History and Purpose,

It was established by Anne Lynch and Mai Finlay in 2001. This was a time in our human history of a rapidly growing awareness not just of the consequences of the major upheavals, in our planet, our world, our churches and religious institutions, but a time of a total shift in human consciousness, through a new understanding of the connectedness between ecology, science, cosmology, and religion.

It was established by Anne Lynch and Mai Finlay in 2001. This was a time in our human history of a rapidly growing awareness not just of the consequences of the major upheavals in our planet, our world, our churches and religious institutions but a time of a total shift in human consciousness through a new understanding of the connectedness between ecology, cosmology, science and religion.

The purpose of Suaimhneas in this context was two fold: To offer a relaxing healing space for those who are questioning and searching for a deeper meaning in their lives and to provide an opportunity for them to explore a more meaningful spirituality, to sustain them on their life’s journey in our ever changing evolving universe.

Development.

Suaimhneas grew and blossomed from a building site to become a house in spacious grounds to finally a home, a place of welcome, a place of hospitality, education and healing. The physical environment has been cultivated creatively. The grounds have flourished with a the introduction of various trees, plants, flowers and shrubs.

Individuals and groups have come to Suaimhneas over the years, to avail of the beauty of the environment, the nourishing facilities and hospitality and the educational programmes, finding here an invitation to come home to their true selves and their rightful place in the web of life.

Covid – 19

Due to the restrictions over the past two years many of our meetings and indoor programmes have been discontinued, but the beauty of nature still surrounds us here. Suaimhneas remains an ideal place to relax, to find solas and healing and reflect on the meaning of life in the context of our changing world today.

The Grounds at Suaimhneas

The variety of areas within the grounds, provide space and opportunity to explore our own identity within the context nature and our interconnectedness and interrelationship with the natural world. Here we can become more consciously aware of the great work of this evolving universe story in which we are all invited to actively participate. Pope Francis tells us that nature is filled with “words of love” that helps us to discover the sacred presence that surrounds and lives in and among us.

Please click on the pictures below for more information about the special areas in our garden.