Newark Abbey, Benedictine monastery in Newark, United States
Newark Abbey is a Benedictine monastery in the city that contains a church, refectory with religious paintings, chapter room, hospitality center, and monastic library. The grounds also include a private chapel, an infirmary for elderly monks, and dedicated spaces for novices' education.
The monastery began in 1857 when monks arrived from Saint Vincent Archabbey in Pennsylvania to establish a religious community serving German Catholic immigrants. This founding as a pastoral center for a specific community shaped its mission from the start.
The monks follow a Benedictine rhythm of five daily prayers while operating an attached school and church for local parishioners. This blend of monastic life and community service defines how the place functions today.
The monastery is located in an urban setting and welcomes visitors interested in experiencing monastic life firsthand. The best time to visit is during the early morning or evening prayer times when the community gathers together.
The monastery is one of the few active urban Catholic monasteries in the United States, maintaining Benedictine traditions amid city life. This persistence in a modern setting makes it a notable place for those exploring monastic continuity in contemporary America.
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