This monastery was built in the 6th century at the edge of the Fertile Crescent facing east over the Syrian Desert. It was abandoned in the 1830s, but is now in use again, under the leadership of a charismatic former Jesuit. His long-term aim is to combine the functions of a retreat haven and seminar center for Christian-Muslim exchange. There are currently five Jesuit monks and five nuns in residence. On the weekends, there may be from 10-100 people working there. The site is spectacularly isolated and the people are friendly. Chores mainly revolve around construction and harvesting olives.

Visitors may stay for free for up to two months, in exchange for a 6-day work week. Beyond two months, they expect a commitment to worship and Arabic.