Weekend in the Abbey of Berne

Grand Abbey of Berne in Heeswijk of the Norbertijn monks or Witheren, founded in 1134.

The next three days I hope to enjoy the hospitality of the religious community in the Abbey of Berne at Heeswijk, near 's-Hertogenbosch (Bois-le-Duc). Rik Bennik, producer at Gospel Music International (GMI), told me about the possibility to spend a couple of days in this Abbey. Rik and I will be there together as guests until next Sunday and I am really looking forward to this time of fellowship!

The Abbey of Berne, two miles southeast of Heusden on the Maas, and about six miles northwest of Bois-le-Duc, was founded in the year of St. Norbert's death, 1134, by Fulcold, Lord of Teisterband. (...) Numerous legends surround its foundation. One is that Fulcold, when hotly pressed in battle, made a vow to build an abbey, if, by throwing himself into the river Maas, his life might be preserved from the enemy. This prayer having been heard, Fulcold converted his castle at Berne into an abbey, and he himself became a lay brother therein.

The Abbey of Berne at Heeswijk is at present very prosperous, being filled with active and industrious members, some fulfilling the usual duties in the abbey, some giving missions, while others teach in the college or write for newspapers and reviews, no fewer than five of these being published by the fathers.
Catholic Encyclopedia