Women's Festival at Helfta Monastery
The historic Helfta Convent in Saxony-Anhalt, a significant center for women in the region, has been a hub for theology and spirituality since the Middle Ages. It was a meaningful location for intellectual and social advancement during this period, where brave and astute women shaped history. This tradition continues today with women from Saxony-Anhalt and beyond, who gather annually for a unique Women's Festival.
This year, the festival occurs on June 14, 2025. You can find up-to-date information about the event and its program here. The event originated during preparations for the reformation of the Diocese of Magdeburg, which also marked the formation of the Magdeburg kfd-Diocesan Union. Initially, the first women's pilgrimage took place in a dilapidated ruin, with the remnants of the medieval mystic tradition of the Helfta Convent resurfacing, and a declaration by Mechthild of Magdeburg: "What God sets his hope on, I dare to attempt."
Over the years, the Women's Festival has evolved from a humble beginning into more than just a summer highlight on our website. The event has become a cultural treasure due to the countless participants, including the sisters of the Convent, women of the Diocesan Union, regional arts and culture initiatives, artists, musicians, and more—attracting over 400 interest each year to encounters, workshops, and a mass led by Bishop Dr. Gerhard Feige on the expansive monastery grounds.
Reflecting on past festivals:- 2024: "Life finds a way"- 2023: "Have courage!"- 2022: "You have heaven and earth within you"- 2021: "Life lives by departure"- 2019: "Truth can never be burned"- And much more...
A short film about the event was created for the 2024 festival, and an article titled "10 Reasons Why the Women's Festival Exists" was published on May 2, 2024. A short film on the event location was produced in 2020. We warmly invite you to join us!
- The Women's Festival will take place on June 14, 2025, at the historic Helfta Convent in Saxony-Anhalt, a location known for its role in promoting women's theology and spirituality since the Middle Ages.
- Information about the event can be found on the website, detailing its programs, encounters, workshops, and a mass led by Bishop Dr. Gerhard Feige on the expansive monastery grounds.
- Over the years, the Women's Festival has grown to incorporate women from various walks of life, including the sisters of the Convent, women of the Diocesan Union, regional arts and culture initiatives, artists, musicians, and more, attracting over 400 participants annually.
- The short film about the event, titled "Life finds a way," was created for the 2024 festival, celebrating the festival's ongoing evolution from its humble beginnings.
- In addition, an article titled "10 Reasons Why the Women's Festival Exists" was published on May 2, 2024, providing insights into the festival's rich history and influence on life, science, health and wellness, womens' health, lifestyle, home and garden, and sustainable living.
