“One thing I ask of the Lord,

that is what I seek:

that I may dwell in the house of the Lord

all the days of my life,

to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord

and to pray in his temple.”

(Psalm 27:4)

With this verse in my heart, and after a year of living as a hermit in Sweden—a life of silence, prayer, and modest means—I am now, at the age of 56, taking the next step: beginning a degree in theology at the University of Fribourg.

Last winter, I was accepted onto the course as a ‘late applicant’—someone over 30 without a high school diploma. I’m deeply grateful for this opportunity, which feels like a confirmation of my path.

But now, I need your support.

At the moment, I have only a small income from online work and am facing back tax payments from my time in Denmark. Moving to a monastery in Switzerland or Austria would bring me closer to the university and allow me to live in a community of brothers who, like me, are seeking God—with a regular daily routine and the stability I long for. At the same time, it would enable me to live in a life of simplicity and focus fully on my studies. Yet even then, the costs of tuition, textbooks, and living remain a challenge.

Why now? Why theology?

For me, this course of study is not a profession, but a vocation—a call to delve deeper into the questions that have shaped my life. I wish to devote myself to theological questions without distraction—not for my own sake, but to share what I learn: whether through conversations, texts, or simply through a life that bears witness.

With its bilingual, cosmopolitan atmosphere and strong theological faculty, the University of Fribourg offers the ideal setting. But as a 56-year-old, I am not eligible for scholarships—and my financial resources are limited.

My goal is to raise €6,000 as a starting aid. This would cover:

What Do You Get as a Supporter?

Your support is more than financial aid—it is an invitation to be part of this journey. In return, I offer you:

Regular updates on my studies and monastic life (via Substack).

Spiritual insights (e.g., short reflections, book summaries, or prayer suggestions).

The certainty of supporting a path of deepening and devotion—without commercial interests, only out of conviction.

Personal exchange: I am available for conversations about faith, theology, or hermit life (online or in person).

How Can You Support Me?

Financially:

Donate via this fundraiser

or go to my Substack and subscribe: https://hero1970.substack.com

Practically:

Networking help: Do you know people or organizations that could support this project?

Cost-saving tips (e.g., affordable health insurance in Switzerland, scholarships for late starters).

Spiritually:

Prayers or good wishes—these are just as valuable as financial support!

Your support gives me the freedom to focus entirely on what matters most: my studies, prayer, and the Scriptures. I am deeply touched by every gesture of solidarity—big or small. Together, we can show that a life of devotion and deepening is still possible today.

With gratitude and humility,

Heinz Robert

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