Discover the Soul of Bend, OR A Guide to the Best Sacred and Spiritual Places

As a writer who is deeply spiritual, I have been drawn to explore the religious and sacred places in Bend, OR. This laidback city is known for its eclectic population that includes outdoorsy enthusiasts, hipster culture seekers, and progressive thinkers. As I embarked on my journey to discover the soul of this city, I found myself immersed in rusticchic architecture combined with breathtaking natural beauty.

One of my favorite spots was The Old Mill District (450 SW Powerhouse Dr., Bend), which features charming shops selling handmade crafts as well as modern shops like REI. Here you can find a quiet spot along the river where you can meditate or take part in yoga classes offered by local businesses such as Namaspa Yoga Studio.

Another mustvisit location is McMenamins Old St. Francis School (700 NW Bond St., Bend). Originally built in 1936 as a Catholic schoolhouse for boys, it has been elegantly restored with amenities like an outdoor soaking pool and cozy fireside seating areas. Perhaps most interestingly though are the strange details that remain from its former life including confessional booths now transformed into telephone nooks available for use by guests.

If youre looking for something more traditional then visit St. Francis Catholic Church (2450 NE 27th St., Bend) which has stood since 1940 when it was founded by Belgian trappist monks who were seeking refuge during WWII. With stunning stained glass windows depicting scenes from both Oregons Native American history along with biblical stories and traditions observed through time honored rituals such as weekly mass services.

For those interested in Buddhism than head over to Northwest Buddhist Academy Temple (20250 Fourth Street Tumalo OR). For arts lovers there is amazing yard art statue garden at Arnold Drake World Garden designed specifically so visitors contemplate peace amid symbols representing nature Orbitron a 15foot steel and aluminum structure, Plateau Totem or many others (2149 NW Lolo Dr., Bend).

Overall, I came to understand that the spiritual life of Bend, OR is as eclectic and diverse as its people. With a focus on community engagement and environmental preservation its no wonder this city has become such a popular destination for those seeking spiritual enlightenment in addition to adventure.

Websites:

Namaspa Yoga Studio: https://namaspa.com/

McMenamins Old St. Francis School: https://www.mcmenamins.com/oldstfrancisschool

St. Francis Catholic Church: http://stfrancisparish.net/

Northwest Buddhist Academy Temple: http://www.nwbatemple.org/

Arnold Drake World Garden: https://arnolddrakeworldgarden.com/