Gathering: Meet the monks & residents.

Gathering: Meet the monks & residents.

At our core, we are a monastic Christian community rooted in the peaceful rhythms of the Taizé tradition. We believe that ancient wisdom belongs in modern life. Together, we tend a space that is vibrant and joyful—a sanctuary grounded in the love of Christ and open to all who seek a path of reconciliation.

Meet the Team

  • Br. Stefan Waligur • Founder


    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.


  • Tim Bickel • Resident Monk



    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.

  • Barb Miller • Resident Monk • Newsletter editor • Artist • Tree Talker



    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.

  • Allan Gajadhar • Board of Directors


    What brings me to the table:
    A bit about me:
    You should know:

  • Ray Amerillo • Board of Directors


    What brings me to the table:
    A bit about me:
    You should know:

  • Bridget Weinberg • Board of Directors


    What brings me to the table:
    A bit about me:
    You should know:

  • Sita • Resident • Chief Enthusiasm Officer

    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.

  • Gumbi • Resident • Sanctuary Sentinel


    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.

  • JB • Resident • Professional Observer

    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.

Levels of Participation

The path into the Community of Peace is a gradual unfolding—a movement from hearing the song to becoming part of the choir.

1. The Visiting Server

For those staying a week or more, we invite you to join our Sacred Exchange. By offering four hours of daily service, you receive the gift of the sanctuary in return. This is an invitation to experience the monastery’s melody—contributing to the life of the land while finding your own rhythm within it—without a long-term commitment.

Learn more about the Sacred Exchange & Apply here

2. The Discernment Residency (The 90-Day Trial)

For those who feel a deeper resonance with our way of life, we offer a 90-day period of Mutual Discernment.

  • The Harmony: This three-month window is a time for both the individual and the community to listen closely. We see if our daily rhythms, labors, and silences truly harmonize.

  • The Commitment: During this time, you are fully immersed in the community's life, sharing the weight and the joy of stewarding the 250 acres and Sophia House.

  • The Foundation: Successful completion of this 90-day trial is the essential requirement before any further consideration of a permanent role.

Begin a conversation about Discernment

3. Committed Residency

Following the discernment period, and by mutual agreement with Br. Stefan and the community residents, one may be invited to stay as a permanent Resident. This is a commitment to the "Long Song"—tending the land and the silence for the sake of all who visit.

4. The Monastic Path

The title of Monk is a sacred vocation, recognized only after an extended season of residency and spiritual maturity. It is the final step in the journey, where one’s life becomes a living prayer dedicated to the sanctuary and the service of others.

The ❤️ of Our Covenant

A Wide Welcome. We do not require any specific religious alignment. We only ask that our visitors bring a desire for joyful living and a sincere search for "Something Greater." Whether you come for the silence, the service, or the spirit, you have a place at our table.

The Rhythm of Decision. We believe in the power of the collective voice. Every resident and intern is invited to share ideas and insights at our weekly House Meetings.

  • Consensus: Our first path is always toward shared agreement.

  • Guidance: If a clear consensus cannot be reached, the Council or Br. Stefan provides the final direction. This ensures that the health of the community and the sanctity of our mission remain the priority.