Corpus Christi Monastery

Founded in 1891 Corpus Christi Monastery stands as the oldest monastery in the United States for Dominican nuns. Imagine its history unfolding before you. This peaceful haven in the Bronx began as a dream. A New York City native Julia Crooks later known as Mother Mary of Jesus envisioned a contemplative community. She entered the Dominican Order in France. Her superiors encouraged her to establish a monastery in America. Archbishop Michael Augustine Corrigan invited her to New York. He desired a community to pray for the seminarians and priests of the Archdiocese. John D Crimmins a prominent Catholic millionaire donated land and a mansion. Mother Mary of Jesus and seven sisters lived there until Corpus Christi Monastery was built in 1890. It was a memorial to Crimmins’ wife. They are buried on the grounds. The monastery observes the primitive Rule of St Dominic. The sisters lead an austere life. They maintain a perpetual adoration of the Blessed Sacrament day and night. For over 120 years the sisters have maintained an apostolate of unceasing prayer. The Bronx neighborhood surrounding them has changed drastically over time. Today fourteen sisters reside at Corpus Christi Monastery ranging in age from 36 to 91. They represent a diverse background including sisters born in Italy Trinidad Tanzania Cameroon Vietnam and Mexico. Their lives are a testament to faith dedication and prayer. They live a life focused on their devotion to God and intercession for others. Their dedication to prayer continues in this bustling city a quiet sanctuary for contemplation and worship. They stand as a living example of faith and dedication a powerful presence in the heart of the Bronx. Step inside and feel the weight of history the serenity of faith. Leave inspired by their enduring commitment to prayer and community.