Newly-elected Abbot Primate Jeremias Sch\u00f6der stands in front of a screen displaying the Te Deum<\/em> hymn | Sant’Anselmo<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div> In the Benedictine Confederation, the abbot primate traditionally sends \u201ccircular letters\u201d to all monasteries within the confederation. These letters, similar in nature to papal encyclicals (from the Greek egkyklios<\/em>, meaning \u201ccircular\u201d), are written to inspire, inform, and encourage dialogue among the monastic communities worldwide. While papal encyclicals are typically addressed to bishops, circular letters from the abbot primate are intended specifically for monastery superiors, who then share them with their communities.<\/p>\n The first circular letter from Abbot Primate Jeremias Schr\u00f6der OSB recaps the 2024 Benedictine Congress of Abbots, where 215 abbots, priors, and sisters gathered to discuss key issues and future initiatives. Significant discussions included the role of monasteries in fostering peace amid global conflicts, with Pope Francis urging Benedictines to cultivate peace starting within their communities. The congress also welcomed a new monastery in France, planned for the upcoming Benedictine Jubilee in 2028\/29, and endorsed a peace prayer initiative, promoting unity across religious lines. Updates on Sant\u2019Anselmo, including the start of the academic year, staffing changes, and efforts to modernize communication, were shared.<\/p>\n The circular letter includes a message of peace from the congress. This message highlights Benedictine values of reconciliation, hospitality, and gratitude as pathways to peace, encouraging monastic communities to contribute actively to peacebuilding globally.<\/p>\n The letter has been translated into six languages. Please click the link below to download the PDF of your choice.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>