The Saint Meinrad monastic community carries out various works and ministries, as a means of outreach and support.
Almost since its founding, Saint Meinrad has operated a school to form men for the priesthood. Today that work continues, as Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology serves dioceses and religious communities in the U.S. and abroad by preparing their men for the priesthood.
In addition, the Graduate Theology Program offers master’s degrees and certificate programs for men and women who wish to minister in the Church or are seeking spiritual growth. Noncredit offerings in continuing formation are also available.
The Permanent Deacon Formation Program partners with dioceses to provide formation for their permanent deacon candidates. The program follows the norms set out by the National Directory for the Formation, Ministry, and Life of Permanent Deacons in the United States of America.
Priests of all ages can find programs for sharpening their skills to become more effective ministers at the Institute for Priests and Presbyterates. Various workshops focus on the roles of associate pastor and pastor, preparing for retirement, and the challenges of being an international priest who is serving in the U.S.
The Center for Youth and Young Adult Evangelization is the home of programs for young adults and those who minister to them. Each summer, Saint Meinrad hosts the “One Bread, One Cup” liturgical leadership conferences for high school teens and their adult ministers. Other programs include the College Ministerial Internship Program, the Young Adult Initiative, and the Office of Hispanic and Latino Ministry.
For those interested in learning more about chant and sacred music, the Institute for Sacred Music offers workshops and programs for a variety of audiences.
Visit the Seminary and School of Theology website.
The Archabbey Guest House and Retreat Center hosts retreats year-round. The schedule can be found on the website, along with information about the guest accommodations. Groups can also book the facilities for their own retreats or meetings.
Wooden caskets and cremation urns are crafted at the Abbey Caskets workshop at Saint Meinrad. They are sold directly to the public, with all proceeds supporting the prayer and work of the monks.
The Abbey Woodworking division builds handcrafted furniture for churches, rectories, chapels, shrines, monasteries – even homes and offices. Customers can choose one of their furniture designs, or an item can be custom designed.
More information can be found at the Abbey Caskets website and the Abbey Woodworking website.
CareNotes are inspirational booklets published on a variety of topics to help individuals heal mind, body and spirit. Topics include dealing with grief and loss, spiritual healing, mental health, aging and many more.
CareNotes was begun in 1988 and has grown to a distribution of more than 100 million booklets around the globe. The eight-page booklets are a helpful resource for clients of hospitals, churches, funeral homes, nursing homes, workplaces and more.
See the selection at the CareNotes website.
Saint Meinrad Books & Gifts is located on the first floor of Newman Hall. The shop sells academic and spiritual books and supplies in addition to unique monk-made items, books, artwork, foodstuffs, and gifts. In addition, a selection of religious books, music, and sacramental gifts is available.