Maria José Rebelo is a Missionary Sister Servant of the Holy Spirit from Portugal, with a background in psychology and a deep commitment to centering prayer practice. She has lived and ministered in Brazil, Australia, Spain, and Portugal. In Portugal, she worked for over eight years offering psychological and spiritual support to migrants and refugees.

Maria José holds a PhD in migration and mental health and has served in leadership roles within her congregation at both regional and European levels. She has been practicing Centering Prayer since 2009 and regularly offers psychospiritual courses and contemplative retreats. She is a commissioned Presenter of Centering Prayer by Contemplative Outreach Lda and a member of the Global Support Team for Centering Prayer Practitioners.

She is drawn to Jesus’ compassionate and contemplative way of being and is passionate about helping others reconnect with their inner goodness and discover deeper meaning in life. Her ministry brings together spirituality, psychology, and social justice, inviting people to live with greater awareness, purpose, and care for Creation.

"In a world of noise, confusion and conflict it is necessary that there be places of silence, inner discipline and peace. In such places love can blossom.”
(Thomas Merton)

Silence & Contemplation Steyl is a space where the soul can breathe—a quiet pause from the rush of life. In this stillness, silence becomes fertile ground where insight, compassion, and clarity can gently take root.

In a world filled with constant distractions, we often lose touch with our inner voice. This program invites you to step away from the noise and into a sacred quiet, where reflection becomes a gentle light guiding you inward, and solitude offers a space of grounded presence.

Through retreats, workshops, and meditation practices, Silence & Contemplation Steyl nurtures deep awareness—awakening wonder, reverence for life, and a heartfelt commitment to care for Creation, as our shared home.

Program Benefits:

• Personal transformation – Gentle shifts in perspective that lead to a more intentional, compassionate way of living.
• Deeper sense of meaning – Time to reflect on life’s purpose and reconnect with what truly matters.
• Connection to one’s inner goodness – Rediscovering the quiet strength, dignity, and kindness at the core of being.
• Reverence for Creation – Awakening a sense of wonder and responsibility for the Earth as our shared home.