As many friends of the monastery know, since the monks arrived in Norcia in 2000, we have been studying the best way to house the growing community in an atmosphere conducive to normal monastic life. From the beginning we have felt that our roots must be planted firmly at the birthplace of St. Benedict, whose 5th century house has been uncovered under our Basilica. But what now remains of the ancient monastery built over his home, is a collection of small buildings which offers space for a scant 15 monks. At the same time, living in the very center of town, on the central piazza has not infrequently interfered with the solitude and peace necessary for a life of prayer.
With the happy problem of a steady stream of vocations and inquirers we began looking for a larger more quiet location for the future Abbey. After much discussion, prayer and negotiations with the archdiocese, we purchased from them, a 16th century monastery which sits on a ridge above the town of Norcia. As the photographs show, the structure has been severely damaged by earthquakes and neglect. There remains for us an enormous project of design, labor and fundraising to make this our home.
Though we cannot predict how all the details will be worked out, we have every intention to keep up our present buildings at the St. Benedict’s birthplace itself in the center of town. Some monks will be assigned to the Basilica as part of our apostolic work, welcoming pilgrims and offering a daily chanted Mass. The monastic community however will reside at the Abbey (a 30 minute walk outside of town). The Abbey will be the place of prayer, contemplation and study. The Basilica will be a place to share the fruits of that contemplation with others. We will follow a traditional description of churches in Italy calling the new Abbey, San Benedetto Fuori Le Mura (outside the walls) while the Basilica will be called San Benedetto dentro le Mura (inside the walls).
We are at the very initial stages of the project. Over the coming years we will be inviting all our friends to join us in this effort ‘On the Italian Mission’. It will be a labor for Christ and his Church, to ensure the presence of a monastic community at the very place where western monasticism has its roots. If you would like to be a part of the building project at this pioneer stage please do contact us. We ask your prayers for our endeavors, that God may use us as his instruments for the good of souls and the Church.
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