Most Reverend Doctor Shamindra Jayawardena OSB has been elected as the new Abbot General of the Sylvestro Benedictine Congregation. This historic election on 28 May 2025 marks him as the first Sri Lankan to hold the position and the General Chapter was held outside Italy for the first time.
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.
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.
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.
Twelve KU Leuven theology students immersed themselves in the rich tapestry of Catholic tradition during a weeklong study trip to Rome. From Vatican institutions to Dominican archives — this was a journey of faith, study, and connection.
In a thoughtful exchange between Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter and Abbot Urban Federer, The Rule of Saint Benedict emerges as a vital guide for courageous leadership in modern times.
On Monday, 28 April, Abbot Donato Ogliari delivered a meditation to the General Congregation of Cardinals in anticipation of the upcoming papal conclave. His reflection covered the centrality of Christ, the freedom of the Spirit, challenges facing the Church, and the concept of the "upper room" related to communion and synodality. Link to full text in English and Italian here.
