The Austrian Benedictine Congregation has begun its 400th anniversary celebrations with a pilgrimage to Mariazell Basilica. Abbot Primate Jeremias Schröder led the commemorative Mass, emphasising the enduring relevance of Benedictine life as a hopeful response to contemporary challenges.
Stift Admont
Admont, Austria
2 June 2025
Kloster Scheyern
Scheyern, Germany
2 June 2025
Monastère Bénédictin
Chevetogne, Belgium
31 May 2025
The Congress of Abbots has approved the admission of Sainte-Marie de la Garde Abbey into the Benedictine Confederation. Founded in 2002 by Abbot Gérard Calvet, the young and growing French community follows the traditional liturgy and monastic life.
At the 2024 Congress of Abbots, Abbot General Bernardus Peeters highlighted the urgent need to renew the Cistercian contemplative identity amid global challenges. Emphasising communion, participation, mission and formation, he called for deeper unity, ecological responsibility and inclusive leadership rooted in Christ.
Timothy Radcliffe OP addressed the Congress of Abbots with a call to monastic hope, stability and truthfulness in a world marked by crisis, distraction and identity confusion. He urged Benedictines to remain as signs of peace and joy, quietly rooted in worship and the enduring mystery of God.
Saint Vincent Archabbey hosted the centenary celebration of Fu Jen University, marking 100 years since its founding in Beijing. Events highlighted the university’s Benedictine origins, academic vision and enduring ties to Chinese culture and the global Church.
Abtei Münsterschwarzach
Schwarzach am Main, Germany
24 May 2025
Pope Leo XIV has taken possession of the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls in a ceremony that included members of the Collegio and Schola of Sant’Anselmo. His homily reflected on the universality of salvation and the urgency of proclaiming the Gospel.
