THE first Catholic monastery has opened in Ireland since Henry VIII's ban on religious houses in 1536.
The British monarch disbanded Catholic monasteries, priories, convents and friaries in England, Wales and Ireland between 1536 and 1541.
Eight Benedictine Monks from Tulsa in the United States will reside at Silverstream, the former residence of the Visitation Sisters in Stamullen, Co. Meath.
The Benedictine monastery is contemplative in nature, with a particular focus on the Liturgy and Eucharistic Adoration.
The community’s constitution and canonical norms were approved by the Holy See earlier this month.
The Bishop of Meath, Bishop Michael Smith, presided at the canonical establishment of the new monastery at Silverstream Priory in the Diocese of Meath yesterday, February 26.
Bishop Smith signed a Decree on February 25, “erecting the Benedictine Monks of Perpetual Adoration of the Most Holy Sacrament of the Altar as a monastic Institute of Consecrated Life of diocesan right in the Diocese of Meath."
Bishop Smith said: “The history of religious life has seen many developments over the centuries and I am delighted to recognise the unique presence of this new monastery in the Diocese of Meath.
"Through their prayer, study and hospitality, the monks are ‘speaking to the heart’ and their quiet witness is a reminder that the Lord continues to provide the Church with new gifts and grace.”
Yesterday Bishop Smith celebrated Mass in Silversteam Priory accompanied by Very Reverend Dom Mark Kirby, Conventual Prior of the Institute.
The Diocese of Meath includes the greater parts of the counties of Meath, Westmeath and Offaly, and a portion of counties Cavan, Dublin, Longford and Louth.
