Recently, I read a book by Washington Irving in which he writes of his travels through England, spending time at two ancient monasteries: Newstead Abbey and Abbotsford. I have always had a fascination with Monks, from their mysterious and devout existence in History to their diligence for craftsmanship. (Not least among these: their ability to brew beer...)
For a while now, I have wanted to make a pilgrimage of sorts to Conception Abbey. It is a monastery of the ancient European model, but located in Missouri and accessible to those of us here in the Midwest.
The Abbey was founded in 1881. The basilica and campus grounds are absolutely rich with art and traditions rooted in their Benedictine culture. Aside from the appeal of the sponsored Day of Reflection, I was most excited to visit the Monastery's working Printery.
Images from the Abbey's website:
Everything from the hand-lettered calligraphy to the final print production of the cards is impressive. But their artistic skill has not been limited to the print - the great murals of the basilica (along with the rest of the interior) was also rendered by early members of the Abbey.
T.M.
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