Pause for a moment and consider how a farmhouse transformed into the Kapelle Gut Nette. Gut Nette started as the “tor Nette” farmhouse in the early 16th century. Jobst von Kerssenbrock founded it.
The original estate likely resembled a small rectangular fort. It featured four corner towers. Today, the remains of the northwestern tower are still visible. In the mid-19th century, the northeastern tower became part of the Kapelle Gut Nette.
Over the centuries, Gut Nette changed owners frequently. In 1925, Bishop Dr Wilhelm Berning acquired it. He intended it as a retreat for mothers needing rest.
In 1941, the Gestapo expelled the Missionary Sisters of the Holy Name of Mary from Meppen. They found refuge here at Gut Nette. Then in 1946, Bishop Dr Berning decided to keep the motherhouse in Osnabrück-Haste. It was not moved back to Meppen. So Gut Nette became Kloster Nette.
Otto Heinrich von Grothaus built the Gutshaus in 1674. This is the left part of the building. It gained its current appearance in the 19th century.
Later as a monastery and motherhouse Gut Nette required expansions after World War II. An retreat house was built for the sisters in the 1960s. The congregation also used it for celebrations.
The old retreat house no longer met their needs functionally or structurally. A new one was built in the same place. Bishop Dr Franz-Josef Bode dedicated the new house on April 11 2014. The foundation stone had been laid on May 8 2013.
Kapelle Gut Nette stands as a testament to adaptation. A farmhouse became a refuge and a spiritual center. It embodies resilience.