A Sanctuary for the Human Spirit
Grounded in nature. Uplifted by community. Alive with creativity.

Set on 350 acres of historic Shaker and Stockbridge-Munsee (Band of the Mohican Indians) land, the Abode provides a sanctuary for spiritual exploration and community, rooted in harmony with nature. We serve as a living home for the Message and its practices, while welcoming diverse teachers, groups, and seekers. Through retreats, programs, and spiritual dialog, we cultivate renewal, connection, and the shared pursuit of wisdom.

Established in 1975 by Pir Vilayat Inayat Khan, The Abode of the Message is a spiritual retreat center located in New Lebanon, New York. Set on 350 acres of the historic Mount Lebanon Shaker Village, the Abode serves as a sanctuary for spiritual exploration and community, rooted in the teachings of Universal Sufism. The property, originally developed as the South Family of the Mount Lebanon Shaker Village in the 19th century, was purchased by a group of spiritual pioneers who restored the Shaker buildings to create a center for spiritual study. Their vision was to collectively embody spiritual awakening through mutual commitment to practicing Sufi teachings and devotion to the ideals of “the message” which is living with and by Love, Harmony, and Beauty. Over the years, the Abode has hosted diverse spiritual teachers and programs, fostering interfaith dialogue and providing a space for reflection and renewal.

The Continuation of the Message

This land has been blessed across generations, first by the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of the Mohican Indians, then by the Shakers, and later by the Sufi teachings of Pir Vilayat Inayat Khan. Today, we continue this lineage by practicing presence with nature and nurturing creativity within ourselves and our community. Through programming centered on nature, health, spirituality, and harmony, we carry forward the Message that began in 1975: to live with Love, Harmony, and Beauty, everyday.