I’ve been to Thomas Merton’s retreat (Abby of Gethsemene) near Bardstown, Kentucky with groups of soldiers. It is a contemplative place, but as I recall, Merton was a bit of a mystic liberal. (They also make great bourbon fruitcake. Makers Mark is in nearby Loretto, KY.)
Yeah I went on the MM tour.
What a nice place.
Beautiful property and nice folks.