Monastery of Christ in the Desert

The Monastery of Christ in the Desert sits along the Chama River, surrounded by natural formations and accessed through a winding dirt road north of Santa Fe.

Founded in 1964 by Aelred Wall with monks from Mount Saviour Monastery in New York, this institution received Conventual Priory status in 1983 and Abbey status in 1996.

The monastery grounds reflect architect George Nakashima's design philosophy, combining Japanese construction techniques with American Modernism in the chapel and interior spaces.

Visitors can join daily worship sessions from 4:00 AM to 7:30 PM, explore the art gallery between 9:00 AM and 5:30 PM, or purchase handmade items at the gift shop.

The monastery manages Abbey Brewing Company, producing specialized beers like Monks' Ale and Monks' Tripel, distributed across eight states through Sierra Blanca Brewing Company facilities.

Location: New Mexico

Inception: 1964

Website: http://christdesert.org

GPS coordinates: 36.37800,-106.68000

Latest update: May 12, 2025 07:32