Centuries of faith resonate within the walls of Saint Anselm’s Abbey. This Benedictine abbey stands as a testament to scholarship prayer and community. Founded in 1923 as Saint Anselm’s Priory it has grown into a significant landmark in Washington D.C.
The story of Saint Anselm’s Abbey begins with Fr. Thomas Verner Moore. Fr. Moore and a group of Americans sought to establish a Benedictine monastic community. They envisioned a think tank dedicated to faith and science. To achieve this they looked to Fort Augustus Abbey in Scotland for guidance and sponsorship.
In 1924 Fr. Moore and his companions returned from Scotland. They established their community on a piece of farmland in the Brookland neighborhood. Their first home was a farmhouse or perhaps even a converted sausage factory. This humble beginning marked the start of Saint Anselm’s journey.
The early years were challenging. Financing the community proved difficult. Monks taught at Catholic University to support the priory. Support also came from the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur. Despite these challenges the community persevered.
In 1930 the monks moved to a new monastery on South Dakota Avenue. This new location provided a permanent home for their growing community. The Tudor building as it was known became a symbol of their dedication.
A pivotal moment in the abbey’s history arrived in 1942. The monks opened the Priory School. This decision reflected their commitment to education. The school aimed to serve gifted students and it quickly gained a strong reputation.
Over the years the Priory School expanded. Additional grades were added and new buildings were constructed. The school embraced an English heritage adopting the form system instead of traditional grades.
In 1961 the Priory achieved a significant milestone. Pope John XXIII elevated it to the rank of Abbey. The Priory School officially became Saint Anselm’s Abbey School. Fr. Alban Boultwood was named the first abbot.
Today Saint Anselm’s Abbey continues its mission. Abbot James Wiseman leads the community. The monks remain dedicated to teaching at the Abbey School and nearby universities. The abbey also maintains a vibrant community of oblates.
Saint Anselm’s Abbey School maintains its academic rigor. The school fosters an environment of peace service and balance. It prepares young men to become exceptional individuals.
As we stand here let us reflect on the rich history of Saint Anselm’s Abbey. From its humble beginnings in a farmhouse to its present-day role as a center for faith and education. Saint Anselm’s Abbey embodies the Benedictine values of scholarship prayer and community. Its legacy endures inspiring generations to come.