St. Norbert Abbey

St. Norbert Abbey: A Foundation of Faith and Service in Wisconsin

St. Norbert Abbey, located in De Pere, Wisconsin, stands as a significant institution within the Roman Catholic Church, belonging to the Order of Canons Regular of Premontre, commonly known as Norbertines. Established in 1898 by Norbertines arriving from Berne Abbey in the Netherlands, it holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating religious community of its kind in the United States. The Abbey is named in honor of Saint Norbert of Xanten, the founder of the order. It functions as the principal motherhouse for Norbertine communities across North America, guiding their spiritual and ministerial endeavors.

History and Mission

The Norbertine Order itself was founded by Saint Norbert of Xanten on Christmas Day, 1121, in Prémontré, France. The order's mission, deeply rooted in the Rule of Saint Augustine, emphasizes a common life dedicated to prayer and service. The establishment of St. Norbert Abbey in Wisconsin was spearheaded by Norbertine priests led by Bernard Pennings, who also founded St. Norbert College, initially as a seminary and later developing it into a college of business. The community's work combines a monastic lifestyle with active pastoral and educational ministries. Priests and Brothers from the Abbey are engaged in serving in parish churches, parochial schools, and within the academic structure of St. Norbert College.

Architecture and Features

The current St. Norbert Abbey buildings, completed in the late 1950s, were designed to reflect the Liturgical Movement and draw inspiration from centuries-old European Norbertine and Cistercian monasteries. The Abbey Church is constructed in the basilica style, featuring a grand nave and choir, with materials like travertine and polished marble contributing to its sense of permanence and grandeur. The design emphasizes simplicity of form and line, combined with a substantial scale and rich materials, echoing the ideals of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux. Notable features of the Abbey include a significant pipe organ built by Casavant Pipe Organs, a crypt housing the remains of the first two abbots, and a collection of six bells cast in the Netherlands. The Abbey is also recognized for its solemn liturgies, the chanting of daily offices, and its modern, symbolic stained glass windows.

Apostolates and Legacy

Clergy from St. Norbert Abbey extend their ministry to the Dioceses of Green Bay and Chicago, overseeing local parishes and Catholic schools. The Abbot also serves as the Keeper of the National Shrine of St. Joseph, located on the campus of St. Norbert College. The Abbey has also faced scrutiny, with an investigation into credible accusations of sexual assault against 24 Norbertines conducted between 2019 and 2021, leading to efforts by the current abbot to reform practices and prioritize child protection. Despite challenges, St. Norbert Abbey continues its mission of living the Gospel in the traditions of Saints Norbert and Augustine, fostering a community "one in mind and heart on the way to God" through the celebration of the Eucharist, liturgical prayer, and dedicated service to the People of God.