A Message from the Monastic Community

On Monday, February 28, and Tuesday, March 1, the monks of St. Mary's Abbey gathered to discern and elect the 12th Abbot of St. Mary's Abbey, on the retirement of Abbot Richard Cronin after the conclusion of his 8 year term of office. Under the leadership of Abbot John Klassen, President of the American Cassinese Congregation of Benedictine monasteries, of which St. Mary's Abbey is a member, the monks prayerfully discerned the community's needs, evaluated candidates, and voted. The monks then unanimously decided that they needed more time to discern the Abbey's needs and identify who would best help them meet these needs as their next abbot. Consequently, the monks unanimously asked Abbot President John Klassen to appoint an Administrator for the Abbey, who would function as the monastery superior for a term of 3 years. Abbot John will consult with his Congregation Council and the monks of St. Mary's Abbey to identify an Administrator. Until the Administrator is appointed, Prior Edward Seton Fittin will serve as temporary Abbey superior.