by Fr. Patrick Carter OSB
Secretary of the Abbot Primate

At the beginning of his mandate, Abbot Primate Jeremias thought that there needed to be a better way of organizing among the various parts that compose Sant'Anselmo. With a large house that includes the Curia of the Primate, the Atheneum for students, and the College for residents there is always a risk that lack of communication and coordination can lead to problems and challenges.

Out of this need for coordination was born the Principals meeting. It is a quarterly meeting that brings together those who govern Sant'Anselmo in a day-long, retreat-like encounter. Meeting outside of Sant'Anselmo allows for reflection from afar and a concentrated focus. Several monastic communities in and around Rome have welcomed the first meetings of this group: Saint Paul outside the Walls, Grottaferrata, and Monte Mario.

The members are currently Abbot Primate Jeremias Schröder, Prior Brendan Coffey, pro-Rector Laurentius Eschlböck, Treasurer Geraldo Gonzalez y Lima, Guestmaster Benoît Alloggia, and Secretary of the Abbot Primate Patrick Carter. These meetings have enabled open communication about emerging needs and challenges through very fraternal and open sharing.