Mount Saint Mary's Abbey
Cistercian (Trappistine)·United States·active·20th century
Mount Saint Mary's Abbey is a Trappistine monastic community of nuns located in Wrentham, Massachusetts, founded in 1949 as the first Cistercian nuns' community in the United States. Originating from an Irish monastery, it is known for its self-support through candy production and its commitment to renewable energy, including wind turbines and solar farms. The abbey has also been instrumental in founding other Cistercian communities across the U.S.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 1949 by nuns from St. Mary's (Glencairn) Abbey in Ireland.
- ›It was the first community of Cistercian nuns in the United States.
- ›The community is known for its production of candy as a primary source of income.
- ›The abbey has invested in renewable energy, installing wind turbines and solar panel farms.
- ›Four new communities of the Order were founded by this abbey in Iowa, Arizona, and Virginia.
Candy Production, Wind Turbines, Solar Panel Farms, Geothermal System
Trappistine Nuns In Wrentham
Armand De Rancé
- Foundation of the First Cistercian Nuns' Community In the United States
- Founding of Subsequent Communities In Iowa, Arizona, and Virginia
About Mount Saint Mary's Abbey
Mount Saint Mary's Abbey is a contemplative monastic community of Trappistine nuns situated in Wrentham, Massachusetts. It holds the distinction of being the first community of Cistercian nuns established in the United States, founded in 1949 by sisters emigrating from St. Mary's (Glencairn) Abbey in County Waterford, Ireland. The community adheres to the principles of the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance, a tradition rooted in the reforms initiated by Abbot Armand de Rancé.
Economic Self-Sufficiency and Environmental Stewardship
In line with the monastic tradition of self-support, Mount Saint Mary's Abbey has developed a notable line of candy production, which has become a significant source of their income and for which they are widely recognized. Demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility and reducing reliance on conventional energy sources, the abbey has made substantial investments in renewable energy. This includes the installation of wind turbines and the development of solar panel farms in partnership with Kearsarge Energy. These initiatives contribute to the abbey's energy needs and have positioned it as a pioneer in the state for utilizing multiple renewable energy sources, including a geothermal system.
Expansion and Influence
The success and growth of the community at Mount Saint Mary's Abbey have led to its role as a motherhouse for new foundations. Since its establishment, the abbey has been instrumental in founding several other Cistercian communities across the United States. These include Our Lady of the Mississippi Abbey in Iowa (founded in 1964), Santa Rita Abbey in Arizona (founded in 1972), and Our Lady of the Angels Monastery in Virginia (founded in 1987). These foundations underscore the abbey's enduring significance within the Cistercian tradition in North America.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Mount Saint Mary's Abbey founded?
Mount Saint Mary's Abbey was founded in 1949. It was established by nuns from an Irish monastery, St. Mary's (Glencairn) Abbey in County Waterford.
What is Mount Saint Mary's Abbey known for?
The abbey is noted for its production of candy, which serves as its main means of income. More recently, it has gained recognition for its significant investments in renewable energy sources.
What is the religious tradition of Mount Saint Mary's Abbey?
The abbey belongs to the Trappistine nuns, which is part of the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance. This order follows the reforms established by Abbot Armand de Rancé in the 17th century.
Has Mount Saint Mary's Abbey established other communities?
Yes, Mount Saint Mary's Abbey has been the founding community for several other monasteries. These include Our Lady of the Mississippi Abbey in Iowa, Santa Rita Abbey in Arizona, and Our Lady of the Angels Monastery in Virginia.
What renewable energy initiatives has the abbey undertaken?
The abbey has installed wind turbines to help meet its energy needs and be better environmental stewards. Additionally, it has developed two solar panel farms, which sell electricity to neighboring Franklin, MA, providing a significant portion of the town's power.
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