Foundation

Vision

Peace, silence and the common good are the basic values that give us direction and orientation. Many other values arise from this, which can enrich the life of all who are connected to Felsentor.

Peace requires not only the absence of violent conflict, but – much more far-reaching – non-violence in all areas. The freedom that resonates creates space for the development of the individual in serenity and equanimity and for strengthening the community through cooperation and flexibility.
Silence is facilitated by being silent and by external quietness, but is a value that unfolds from within as serenity and simplicity in dealing with people, animals and things. Silence, understood in this way, is a high goal of developing the heart. Only in silence do we become aware of that deep connection with the mystery of life that culminates in reverence.
The common good demands from all those who belong to the community a clear sense of tending to the needs of others, as well as patience and friendliness in dealing with them. Where goodness and benevolence are consciously cultivated, they draw ever wider circles until compassion no longer recognizes boundaries and belonging encompasses all and everything.

Board members

President: Vanja Palmers
Deputy President: David Steindl-Rast, OSB
Other members: Katharina Shepherd, Sabine Hayoz-Kalff, Thomas Tschümperlin, Sr. Theresia Raberger, Manfred Hellrigl

Bylaws

I. NAME AND SEAT

The “Felsentor Foundation” is a non-profit foundation, according to paragraph 80ff ZGB (Swiss civil law) with headquarters in 6353 Weggis.

II. PURPOSE AND TASK

Basically, the foundation wants to reduce the suffering of this world and promote its happiness. It mainly pursues this overriding goal:
1) To improve one’s relationship with himself/herself and with the world around him/her.
2) To convey a meditative quality of life through the creation of a place of silence and contemplation.
3) The acquisition and maintenance of the property Felsentor, Weggis, property no. 550, GB Weggis.
4) Overcoming the widespread but limited view that our human well-being is basically more important than that of all other sentient beings. Above all, it wants to raise awareness of the suffering of the so-called farm animals among a broader public and be a platform for their concerns.

III. REALISATION

The Foundation will achieve its objectives primarily as follows:
1) It procures and administers the financial means necessary for the realization of the Foundation’s tasks.
2) It promotes course and project work that conveys an understanding of holistic thinking and action.
3) It seeks cooperation with persons, organizations and institutions interested in similar objectives.

IV. USE OF THE FOUNDATION’S FUNDS

The Foundation shall use its resources as follows:
1) It acquires the property Felsentor, property no. 550, land register Weggis. It may acquire further properties if this appears to be conducive to the fulfilment of the purpose of the foundation.
2) It creates and maintains the working, residential and educational infrastructure of the Felsentor property.
3) It provides the living, working and course infrastructure to the center team in order to fulfil the purpose of the foundation.
4) It supports the work to be carried out at Felsentor.
5) It may also support similar projects outside Felsentor.

V. PROCUREMENT OF FUNDS

The foundation accepts donations and last will donations and can also take out loans.

VI. ORGANIZATION

The Board of Trustees is the managing body of the Foundation and represents it externally. It consists of at least three members. Decisions are made by a simple majority; in the event of a tie, the President decides. The Board of Trustees supplements and constitutes itself. It determines the members entitled to sign and the type of subscription. The activities of the members of the Board are honorary. The term of office of the members of the Board of Trustees is five years; it may be renewed after expiration. David Steindl-Rast, OSB and Hans Vanja Palmers are members of the Board of Trustees for life.

VII. INSPECTION OFFICE

The Executive Board shall elect an inspection office; this may also be an accounting firm. The Auditors shall audit the accounts of the Foundation and report in writing.

VIII. CANCELLATION OF THE FOUNDATION

In the event of the dissolution of the Felsentor Foundation, 50% of the assets remaining after the repayment of all debts shall be used for animal protection and 50% for a meditative purpose.