The Benedictine tradition came to the Midwest in the 1850s, when the Swiss Abbey of Einsiedeln sent two monks to investigate whether to begin a foundation in this area. In this way, the monks of Einsiedeln hoped to:

• Transplant their Benedictine heritage onto American soil
• Minister to the pastoral needs of the growing Catholic population settling in the area
• Start a school to prepare local men for the priesthood.

Founded on March 21, 1854, Saint Meinrad Archabbey is a thriving community of 120 monks who make new the Benedictine tradition in the 21st century. Daily, they commit their lives to prayer and work, faithfully following vows of obedience, stability of place, and conversion of life.

To learn more, please visit the Saint Meinrad Web Site by clicking on the image at right.