Archbishop's web site Denver Catholic Register Parishes Catholic Pastoral Center
August 7, 2002
Canon City monks vote to downsize, eventually close
Benedictine monastery Holy Cross Abbey to close in 5-10 years
The monks of Holy Cross Abbey, a Benedictine monastery in Canon City, have voted to begin downsizing their operations gradually under the direction of the American Cassinese Congregation of Benedictine Abbeys.
The action is based on projections of membership that indicate the closing of the abbey in five to 10 years because of the age and number of monks. For the foreseeable future, the abbey will continue its operations on the campus in Canon City.
Abbot Kenneth Hein, O.S.B., stepped down as superior of the abbey last month. Abbot Kenneth had been superior for 10 years. Under Abbot Kenneth, the abbey continued to develop the use of its campus by numerous organizations in the Canon City area. He also helped to guide the community in making the decision to downsize and eventually close the abbey.
Father Ignatius Smith, O.S.B., prior of the abbey, became its temporary superior until an administrator is appointed by the president of the American Cassinese Congregation of Benedictine Abbeys.
Holy Cross Abbey was established as a Benedictine monastery in 1886 and became an abbey on July 8, 1925. Since first arriving in Colorado from Saint Vincent Archabbey, Latrobe, Pa., the monks have served the people of Colorado in a number of ways. They have served continuously in various parishes throughout Colorado and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. Until 1985, the monks operated a high school. They also have provided retreats and the ministry of hospitality on their campus. Recently they opened a winery.
The American Cassinese Congregation of Benedictine Abbeys is an association of 21 abbeys in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico. Holy Cross Abbey is a member. The president and his council will assist the abbey during the stages of downsizing and eventual closure. The congregation's primary responsibility will be to see that the monks of the abbey are provided for and that the presence of the monks in Canon City can remain as long as possible.
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