Our Lady Of The Mississippi Abbey Case Study

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On October 18, 1964, a new monastery was founded in Dubuque, Iowa. Our Lady of the Mississippi Abbey was founded under the branch of the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance, also known as Trappistines. Thirteen sisters left their community of Mt St Mary Abbey in Wrentham, Massachusetts and were led by Mother Angela, the abbess, to start a new monastery. At first the foundation was to be set in Argentina, however after the project fell through, the abbot of New Melleray invited the sisters to Dubuque. A property of land, called Hickory Hill, was for sale and was purchased as the site for the new monastery. The monastery was built on a clift overlooking the Mississippi River. To resemble Jesus and his twelve apostles, it was customary for the founding group to induct thirteen people. Sr Columba Guare was selected by Mother Angela to be the superior of the foundation. Twelve other founders were chosen as well, however only four remain at the Mississippi location. Our Lady of Mississippi Abbey is best known for following the Benedict Way and working off the fruits of their labors to be self-supportive …show more content…

As Cistercians, their rule of life follows the Rule of St Benedict. The Rule of St Benedict was written around the early 500s. Their order is ordered to contemplation. As stated by Sister Regina, "Monastic life is geared to thinking about God, living for God and loving God and appreciating God" ( https://youtu.be/3jiWeNgjp2A). There are three chapters to three virtues that Saint Benedict considers the most important. The three virtues are obedience, silence and humility. Obedience is to go beyond your own selfishness to help each sister and serve the community. Silence is being attentive to God and grow in knowledge. The word "trappist" means "silent." Humility is being open to learn the truth about

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