Olivetans
The Olivetans, formally the Order of Our Lady of Mount Olivet, are a monastic order founded in 1313 by Bernardo Tolomei and two companions, who initially lived as hermits in the region of Accona. Adopting the Rule of Saint Benedict, they were recognized in 1344 and are distinguished within the Benedictine Confederation by their white habit and centralized organization. The order's name originates from their first hermitage, Monte Oliveto, in honor of Christ's Passion, with Monte Oliveto Maggiore serving as their motherhouse.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 1313 by Bernardo Tolomei, Patrizio Patrizi, and Ambrogio Piccolomini as hermits.
- ›Officially recognized by Pope Clement VI in 1344.
- ›Follow the Rule of Saint Benedict and are part of the Benedictine Confederation.
- ›Distinguished by their white habit and centralized organizational structure.
- ›The order's name derives from their original hermitage, Monte Oliveto, meaning 'Mount of Olives'.
- ›Monte Oliveto Maggiore remains the motherhouse of the order.
Monte Oliveto Maggiore, White Habit, Centralized Organization
Order of Our Lady of Mount Olivet, Olivetan Congregation, Osb Oliv
Bernardo Tolomei, Patrizio Patrizi, Ambrogio Piccolomini
Founding In 1313, Recognition By Pope Clement Vi In 1344, French Revolution's Impact On Bec Abbey
About Olivetans
The Olivetans, formally known as the Order of Our Lady of Mount Olivet, constitute a monastic order that traces its origins to a foundation in 1313. Established by Bernardo Tolomei along with two companions, the initial community lived as hermits in the remote Accona region of Italy. Their spiritual life and organizational structure are rooted in the Rule of Saint Benedict. The order received official recognition in 1344 and is a constituent member of the Benedictine Confederation, where it is also referred to as the Olivetan Congregation.
What sets the Olivetans apart within the Benedictine tradition is their distinctive white habit and a more centralized form of governance compared to many other Benedictine congregations. Their post-nominal designation is 'OSB Oliv'. The name 'Olivetan' itself derives from their original hermitage, Monte Oliveto, a name chosen in homage to Christ's Passion. The primary monastery, Monte Oliveto Maggiore, serves as the motherhouse of the order and is distinguished from subsequent foundations established in various locations.
Today, Olivetan Benedictines continue to maintain a presence in several countries, including the United Kingdom, France, and the United States, among others. While the monks themselves often focus on internal spiritual life without extensive outside apostolates, their associated communities, including Olivetan nuns and sisters, may engage in various ministries such as religious education and pastoral care. The order's spiritual heritage, marked by the contemplative life and adherence to Benedictine principles, continues to be practiced in their active communities worldwide.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When were the Olivetans founded?
The Olivetans were founded in 1313 by Bernardo Tolomei and two friends. The foundation charter was approved in 1319, and the order received official recognition from Pope Clement VI in 1344.
What is the origin of the name 'Olivetan'?
The name 'Olivetan' comes from the order's original hermitage, which was called Monte Oliveto. This name was chosen in honor of Christ's Passion, as 'Oliveto' refers to the Mount of Olives.
How are the Olivetans distinguished from other Benedictine congregations?
Unlike many other Benedictine congregations, the Olivetans have a centralized structure supervised by an abbot general. They are also distinguished by their white habit, whereas most Benedictines wear black.
Where is the motherhouse of the Olivetan order?
The motherhouse of the Olivetan order is Monte Oliveto Maggiore, located in Italy. This site was the location of their original hermitage and became known as 'greater' to distinguish it from later foundations.
Do Olivetan monks engage in outside apostolates?
The monks at the Monastery of Christ Our Saviour in Turvey Abbey, United Kingdom, have no outside apostolate. However, Olivetan nuns and sisters may engage in outside apostolates such as religious education or pastoral care.
Related Monasteries
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Farneta Charterhouse, also known as Certosa di Santo Spirito di Farneta or Certosa di Maggiano, is a Carthusian monastery located north of Lucca, Tuscany, Italy. Founded in the early 14th century, it gained tragic notoriety in September 1944 when Nazi troops massacred twelve of its monks and lay brothers, along with thirty-two partisans and Jews they were sheltering. Despite this devastating event, the monastery has a history of artistic contributions and continued monastic life, though it remains a site of remembrance for the wartime atrocities.
Florence Charterhouse
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Pavia Charterhouse
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