Former Retreat House in Uden

In 1875, the German priest Arnold Janssen laid the foundation for the Steyler missionary work: he founded the Society of the Divine Word, the Missionary Sisters Servants of the Holy Spirit, and the final congregation of Steyl, known as the Servants of the Holy Spirit of Perpetual Adoration. The three congregations grew rapidly, thanks to Janssen’s publications and an innovative initiative: retreats. In September 1911, a branch was established in Uden. The priests moved into a convent abandoned by the Ursuline Sisters, which was named St. Willibrord, and expanded it. This mission house was requisitioned by the Germans in 1940 and blown up at the end of the war. A small chapel stands in the sports park in its memory. In 1912, the missionary sisters also came to Uden, initially to assist the priests with household chores. Their convent was built across from the mission house. Retreats were also held here, hence the name Retreat House. This house is still standing.

This text has been translated using AI.