After a long process of discussion and study, the moving in preparation for monastery renovations began in early November. This is part of Phase 1 of a three phase renovation of both monastery buildings, the purpose of which is to:

1. Bring electrical, heating, plumbing, and life safety systems up to current codes and best practices standards for energy efficiency.
2. Consolidate the number of rooms in the Novitiate and West Wing of the 1966 Monastery. This consolidation will provide “assisted living” accommodations—like wheelchair accessibility, secure entrances, larger living spaces, individual bathrooms, and wider doorways and handrails—to elderly monks while also acting as an investment for future vocations.

Monks who lived in the Novitiate moved to Vincent House, and monks who lived on the first floor of the West Wing moved to the East Wing. The Buildings & Grounds Department has spent months preparing for this project and has already worked very hard to help the monks move and prepare spaces for renovation. 
 
Construction will begin Monday, December 11th.

Please see below for some “before” pictures and stay tuned for updates in the coming months!

Pictured, top to bottom (all in 1966 Monastery West Wing): basement hallway, basement laundry, Novitiate room, Novitiate study, Novitiate hallway, first floor hallway, first floor room.