Brother John, who often uses a golf cart to travel around the grounds of the Abbey of New Clairvaux in Vina, Calif., leads visitors on short walking tours. (Cherilyn Parsons / For The Times)
The abbey’s retreats are self-guided, governed by contemplation rather than a roster of seminars. (Cherilyn Parsons / For The Times)
The monastery, once the personal vineyard of California Gov. (and university founder) Leland Stanford, covers more than 580 acres. (Cherilyn Parsons / For The Times)
Rooms at the abbey are plain but comfortable. With space for only 12 guests, theres often a waiting list. (Cherilyn Parsons / For The Times)
