History and development of the Silence Farm.
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In 1984, Father Phil Bosmans and the doctors Vandewalle-Verwimp bought a farm with 25 hectares of farmland. The 'Wijnstokhoeve' became a place where people with mental problems or cancer could catch their breath in connection with nature, silence and healthy food. From day one, the place became an oasis of hope for many. Moreover, this unspoilt piece of nature of more than 20ha had a great meaning and value as it was one of the first organic farms in Flanders.
Origin and growth of the Silence Farm
Under the impulse of Patrick Hanjoul - former director of BZN - and with the support of thousands of sympathizers and sponsors, it became possible to thoroughly restore the farm in 2012. Later, thanks to the City of Damme and the province of West Flanders, the farm received an admission which made it possible to expand the care function within a legal framework.
After the 2-year renovation works, it became possible to stay at the Silence Farm (2014) and to attend programs that focused on the healing power of slowing down, stillness and deepening. A wide range of activities in which nature, silence, meditation and meeting were central.
The Silence Farm was born!
The project responded to the urgent and increasing need for places where people can recover from the pressures of life, as evidenced by the increasing number of burnouts, depressions and suicides.