Celestines

The Celestines

The Celestines were a Roman Catholic monastic order that emerged as a distinct branch of the Benedictine tradition. Founded in 1244 by Peter of Morone, who later ascended to the papacy as Celestine V, the order was initially known as the Hermits of St Damiano or Moronites. Their foundation stemmed from Peter of Morone's austere life of solitude and prayer on the Mountain of Majella, which attracted followers eager to share his way of life. The order was officially recognized and approved by Pope Urban IV in 1264 as a branch of the Benedictines, with a rule that incorporated additional severities and privations beyond the traditional Benedictine practice.

History

The order experienced rapid growth, particularly after its founder's papal election and subsequent confirmation of its rule and privileges. By the time Peter of Morone retired from governing the order, he had seen it expand to thirty-six monasteries with over six hundred monks. The Abbey of the Holy Spirit at Monte Morrone in Sulmona became the headquarters of the order and the residence of its General-Superior. The Celestines spread throughout Italy, Germany, Flanders, and France, establishing numerous houses. The French congregation later developed its own constitutions in the 17th century. However, the order faced significant decline, impacted by events such as the Reformation and the European Wars of Religion, and did not participate in the 17th-century monastic reform movements. The last Celestine house closed its doors in 1785, marking the end of the order.