06/16/2026
Villa St. Benedict was honored to be selected as one of five featured garden destinations during the Lisle Woman’s Club Annual Garden Gait on June 14, welcoming visitors from across the community to tour our historic Grotto and newly established Peace Garden.
A highlight of the event was the discovery of the campus’s hidden Grotto, a cherished landmark dating back to 1930. Modeled after the Grotto of the Apparitions in Lourdes, France, the structure was commissioned by the Benedictine Sisters of the Sacred Heart and built by farm manager Clarence Rambousek beginning in 1929. Constructed from limestone and massive rocks gathered from the monastery grounds, the Grotto remains a symbol of faith, history, and dedication.
A common phrase of the day, “I've lived in this area for years and didn't know this was even here.”
The grounds continue to be lovingly maintained by the Benedictine Sisters, Sister Mary, and dedicated volunteers, ensuring the historic site remains beautiful for residents and visitors alike.
Guests also toured the Peace Garden, created in May 2025 and featuring the newly installed Pax Aeterna (“Everlasting Peace”) statue. The garden and statue were generously donated by the Benedictine Sisters of the Sacred Heart as a place for prayer, reflection, and peace.
Lisle Woman's Club Garden Gait provided a unique opportunity for the community to experience both the rich history and tranquil beauty of Villa St. Benedict, offering many visitors a first glimpse of one of Lisle’s most treasured hidden gems.