Saint Louis Abbey

The Abbey of Saint Mary and Saint Louis, commonly known as Saint Louis Abbey, is a prominent Catholic monastery situated in Creve Coeur, Missouri. It belongs to the English Benedictine Congregation and was established in 1955 as a priory of Ampleforth Abbey in England. The foundation was a response to an invitation from Cardinal Joseph E. Ritter and local lay Catholics who sought a boys' school guided by the English Benedictine educational ethos.

History and Development

Founded by three monks, including Fr Columba Cary-Elwes as the first prior, Saint Louis Abbey initially operated as a priory. It achieved independence from Ampleforth Abbey in 1973 and was officially elevated to the status of an abbey in 1989, with Luke Rigby elected as its first abbot. Subsequent abbots have included Thomas Frerking and Gregory Mohrman. The monastic community adheres to the Benedictine Rule of "prayer and work," dedicating themselves to daily prayer, Mass, and various ministries.

Architecture and Features

The abbey campus encompasses 150 acres and includes the Saint Louis Priory School. A significant architectural landmark is the Abbey Church, completed in 1962 and designed by Gyo Obata. Its striking circular facade features whitewashed concrete parabolic arches that appear to ascend. The church's interior is adorned with a 14th-century sculpture of the Madonna and Child, a 17th-century holy font, and contemporary sacred art from international artists. The original monastery buildings were expanded and rebuilt between 2000 and 2001, with school buildings also integrated into the grounds.

Community and Ministries

As of 2020, Saint Louis Abbey was home to a community of 26 monks. They are actively involved in ministries that include serving two parishes and extensively in the Saint Louis Priory School, where they teach subjects ranging from theology and Latin to mathematics and science, as well as coaching sports teams. In keeping with Benedictine hospitality, the abbey provides a guest wing for respite and spiritual engagement, offering counsel and the sacrament of confession to visitors.

Notable Brethren

Several monks have made significant contributions in various fields. Fr Columba Cary-Elwes, the founding prior, was also an author and monastic leader. Fr Timothy Horner was an editor for a widely used edition of the Rule of Saint Benedict and wrote about the abbey's founding. Fr Ralph Wright is recognized for his poetry and translations, while Fr J. Augustine Wetta is an author and public speaker known for his works on humility and classical themes.