The Importance of Catholic Monasteries in Today's World

For millennia, Catholic monasteries have safeguarded culture, created stunning sacred art, unearthed profound scientific discoveries, and served as centers of charity and refuge for the poor and marginalized.

Here, in the desert mountains of southern California, St. Michael’s Abbey continues this ancient and vital legacy. In our work, in our study, and in our prayer, the Norbertines of St. Michael’s Abbey pursue life at its happiest and best—recognizing that all creation is a gift, and that all our lives can be given as a gift back to our Creator.

We are an example of community for a fractured society; a refuge for beauty for a culture mired in relativism; and a powerful witness to the undeniable beauty of Christ’s Gospel for a world that is desperate for His love.

#stmichaelsabbey #catholic #catholicchurch #monastery

MB01G0PPCSB12US

[silvinasi]

"In a place of beauty, the Catholic is at home" Amen to that!

[IsabellaKathryn]

I used to live in OC and St. Michael’s abbey was my every weekend church. They are one of the main reasons I converted to Catholicism as a teenager! My parents are atheist and I’m 14 I just recently was baptized and confirmed in Arizona. St. Michael’s abbey really led me to convert. I’m sad I don’t go anymore but when I visit OC I’ll definitely be going back like I used to every weekend. May God bless you!

[hhfxswyuu]

Pray for me. I'm a new Catholic with no idea what my future holds and with many wounds, but all I want is to dive ever deeper into the mysteries of this church. 🙏🏼

[yolandasilverio]

I am so happy I returned to the Catholic Church. My soul has been restored with God's grace.

[EvelynRivera-zk]

God bless the Norbertines and St. Michael's Abbey! I am gratefully following their Lenten daily reflections and prayers. So beautiful, so Catholic, so blessed!

[PhillipOnWater]

Couldn’t agree more. I left Protestantism to join a more traditional faith. Very thankful for traditional Christianity

[friedawells]

I think we don't even understand what sacred is anymore, including many Catholics. People want to remove the altar rails and make the Mass casual or more "inclusive." It just demonstrates that we have forgotten what Mass is for. We are trying to set something apart *exclusively* for God in the Mass, just like how a priest or nun sets their own life apart exclusively for God.
Thank you to these priests who are bringing back sacred beauty ❤️🕊

[jillmclean]

Beautifully done, and I will be moving back to OC late summer ... this is where I will be attending Mass! Currently I am in Chicago and attending the Holy Mass at St. John Cantius, and a priest has recommended St. Michael's Abbey.

[Lexthebarbarian]

Catholicism is the most beautiful religion of them all. Art, music and architecture can be the mouthpiece for the supernatural. Many are drawn to Catholicism because of that. Unfortunately, Catholicism has also chosen to embrace postmodern art and architecture. It hurts the heart to see.

[TheBadTrad]

I was practically raised at a Passionist monastery in South Florida. I spent the majority of my childhood there and even discerned the priesthood with them. My time spent there was such a blessing! Deo Gratias!

[sunflower-mczo]

We are blessed for having this beautiful tradional church in Orange County. Praise God🙏❤

[taylorvanbuskirk]

Wonderful! I love the beauty as well. It was good seeing my friend, Father John Henry.

[carmeister_]

God bless Fr. Hermon!!! I met him at my parish. I’m not Catholic but I asked him to pray for me because my coworker who was into astrology had hugged me for a prolonged time and I felt there was something around me. That Sunday I went up to him and he prayed and I felt something snap off of me. God is with the priests! God bless st. Michael’s abbey and God bless you too reader.

[TxCwby]

And in the beauty of quietude, the soul flourishes. How wonderful is your mission, Fr. And what wonderful families support that mission. Thanks for sharing.

[cianmoriarty]

Thank you for praying for us and the holy souls in purgatory brothers and fathers. I am deeply grateful.

[denisemariateresa]

I love love love visiting the Abbey!
Even when it was under construction and we had a tour with Fr Joseph, it was beautiful. It didn't have any of the mosaic tiles placed or any of the artwork and it still full of God's beauty in such an indescribable way. Every visit is a special treat!😊🙏♥
Love our Norbertines of SMA!⚜

[zealousideal]

Beautiful! I live in LA and go visit here sometimes! Very cool!

[jjquinn]

What a beautiful, relevant video. Last April, after spending 5 days at Knock Shrine in Knock, Ireland, I stayed for 2 days at Glenstal Abbey in Co. Limerick, Ireland. The fathers were the Benedictine monks. What a moving experience with several times praying of the Liturgy of the Hours, noontime Mass, and meals with the monks. In-between we spent our quiet time in meditation.

[Eternallyhopeful]

Someday I would love to visit. Looks so beautiful! ❤❤❤

[MajorTom]

Glory to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit! ✝️✝️✝️