What brings me to the table:
How can we love the world today? This is the question we ask everyday here in community of peace. My life here is rich and I am grateful to be here. Living in community singing and praying every day trusting God learning to love others this is what life could be and should be. We welcome you to come visit and participate in our common life.

What brings me to the table: Community of Peace is a very unique spiritual place for me, different than all other places my path has taken me through. Br. Stefan encourages us to live by the love teachings of Jesus, all around, and through and through, and to apply them in relating to all other people, all the time. Yet he is accepting of all people and places and makes no demands on anyone else’s personal spiritual path other than that they honor and respect the Christian monastic nature of this community, its daily rhythm of sung prayer, community suppertime and maintaining a friendly atmosphere of quietude and non-violent communication.

I came here initially for a healing retreat, loved what this place is and became a permanent resident. I’m now preparing to make my lifetime vows as a monk here.

A bit about me: I came here from Erie County, PA. I was an electronic engineer and industrial programmer for all of my career. So, I’m very logical minded.

I began a conscious seeking, following a spiritual path, when I was 30. And that has led me deep into both the mindfulness practices of Buddhism and the teachings of Jesus in the gospels. I led mindfulness/spiritual groups for 25 years prior to coming here. And, I had a small retreat and meditation center for 13 years, which gave me a desire for community living.

You should know: My passion is to share mindfulness practices and teachings with people, orienting them to the teachings of Jesus. I also enjoy my hobby-level use of my camera, particularly with nature pictures. And I also enjoy ranting on FB for social justice, awareness, and sharing my ever-deepening experience of how wonderful the love of Christ is in and through us to help bring peace to this world.

What brings me to the table: I had a plan, then Holy Spirit laughed!

A bit about me: When I'm not busy falling, recuperating or dropping things, I'm on my iPad Pro working on the next newsletter, formatting pictures, writing Welcome Cards or drawing the next Mandala. I talk too much but I also listen well & I have good shoulders if you need something to cry on.

You should know: My door is usually open.

What brings me to the table: I have been involved with the Community of Peace since its founding- as a regular visitor, spreading awareness in my local spiritual communities, and participating in the 'All shall be well' virtual choir. The community exemplifies and evangelizes the spiritual life that I feel called to support.

A bit about me: I am a long-time resident of Arlington Virginia, where I helped raise my 3 children. 

I am a native of Guyana, and I have been a citizen of three different countries including dual citizenship with the US and Canada.  A premed and history major in college, I also worked nights during his studies as a Teamster. Initially pursuing a PhD in history at Georgetown University, I also studied literary and critical theory. I joined the software industry after 9 years at the University and have been a software industry program manager for over 20 years. 

Very active in the community, I have been President of the Arlington County Civic Federation, and of the Center for Spiritual Living Metro.  I live a spiritually focused life, including practicing meditation and facilitating meditation groups.

You should know: I feel a calling to be of service, to practice conscious contact with God.  I show up as a spiritual servant leader, as a true Christian.  I advocate for the powerless, the voiceless, and those in need of care, of help, of support; in my community, and anywhere I can.  Being part of the Community of Peace helps me to remember I AM in silence, in song, and in service. 

What brings me to the table: For first time visitors to the Community of Peace, what strikes you almost immediately is the serenity, quietness and love that seems to embrace every nook and cranny of the Sophia house, the wrap around deck that overlooks the pond immediately behind the house, and the beautiful 270 acres of land that comprises the campus of Community of Peace. At its core, Community of Peace is a monastic Christian community with Br. Stefan serving as the Abbot and leader of this community. 

Community of Peace is focused upon transforming lives through a rhythm of daily prayer, song, work and contemplative silence and mindfulness.  More than ever, in today’s busy and noisy world, where we are constantly bombarded with social media, political distractions, never ending wars, hateful rhetoric and overall distractions to acquire more things to fill some void in our lives, Community of Peace is a place where people, especially young people, can find a place to sit in silence and prayer.

There can be no better mission than that in my opinion, which is why I have chosen to serve on the Community of Peace Board of Directors.  Brother Stefan is inspiring and a gentle spirit and anything that I can contribute to fulfilling the mission and vision of Community of Peace, is more important than ever. 

A bit about me: I have recently retired after working for 44 years in the field of public transportation in which I helped people with alternative mobility options (like public transit).  We often take for granted in our "car-centric" culture that everyone has the ability and financial means to own and drive an automobile, but sadly this is not always the case in our country.   I have served on other not-for-profit boards and hope that those past experiences can help Community of Peace in their mission. 

Bridget Weinberg brings 17 years of nonprofit leadership to the Community of Peace, Louisa board — experience rooted not in boardrooms, but in the sacred work of holding space for people navigating a cancer diagnosis, caregiving, grief and loss.

From the moment she first visited CPL, Bridget felt immediately at home. She says “They love like Jesus — and all are welcome,”. “That’s the real deal.” It is precisely that spirit of radical welcome, open-hearted acceptance and genuine connection that drew her to this community.

What brings me to the table: a lifelong commitment to building spaces where every person — regardless of background, belief or circumstance — feels seen, safe and deeply human.

What Brings Me to the Table: My connection to Community of Peace began through a chance meeting with Brother Stephan. I was immediately struck by his kindness and gentle nature as he shared the vision of the community. After visiting, I felt a strong and natural desire to be involved.

The atmosphere at the Community of Peace felt calm, welcoming, and full of genuine warmth. The people I met were smiling, kind, and deeply caring toward one another. It was an unusually positive and uplifting environment, and it left a lasting impression on me.

That experience is what led me to become involved as a board member, and I look forward to supporting the continued growth and mission of the Community of Peace in any way I can.

You Should Know: I bring experience from both the banking world and working alongside non-profit organizations. My professional background in banking has given me a strong foundation in lending, financial decision-making, and building trusted relationships. Alongside that, I have also had opportunities to support and engage with non-profits, which has reinforced my appreciation for community-focused work and service.

I hope to use this combination of experience to support the mission of the Community of Peace and contribute in a meaningful way.

A Bit About Me: I was born in Gravesend in the United Kingdom and spent seven years traveling throughout Europe, Asia, and Australia before eventually settling in the United States, where I have now lived for the past 27 years. I have always had a love for people, travel, and experiencing different cultures, and those experiences have shaped who I am today and how I relate to others.

I enjoy connecting with people from all walks of life and value the lessons that come from different backgrounds, perspectives, and communities.

What brings me to the table: Snacks. Mostly snacks. If you have snacks, I am already your best friend.

A bit about me: I’ve successfully trained my human to tend to my every need. I make sure he gets plenty of exercise on our walks, and I spend my "off-hours" trying to convince the cats to play with me. (It’s a work in progress.)

You should know: Life is good, mon’! I’m pretty sure I run this place.

What brings me to the table: I was brought here in a cage. I attempted a strategic exit on night one… unfortunately, I was intercepted. I’ve decided to stay for the benefits package (the food is acceptable).

A bit about me: I specialize in patrolling the grounds when the humans aren't looking. I am a connoisseur of silence and undisturbed sunbeams.

You should know: I am currently filing a formal grievance regarding the new puppy. My "No Puppies" policy remains strictly in effect, regardless of current house guests.

What brings me to the table: The rent is free and I like the vibe.

A bit about me: I have a "tough guy" reputation to maintain, but I’m actually a softie. If I bolt when you walk in, don't be offended. I’m just finding a better spot to stare at you from a distance.

You should know: I’m shy. If we make eye contact, act natural.