Welcome

A word of welcome from Abbot Dominic Taylor on the first anniversary of his blessing (28 September 2019)

“For some people, the idea of a monastery in the suburbs in London must seem a contradiction in terms. Yet, among the roofs of suburban West London the Abbey Church of St Benedict’s, Ealing, still raises her stately head. The monastic community too, despite recent challenges, continues to be a witness to God’s abiding love and concern to the people of Ealing and beyond. On these pages I hope that you will find encouragement in the history of the monastic community at St Benedict’s Abbey, Ealing and, with great faith, hope and trust, look with us to the future.”

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Ealing Abbey, copyright 27 September 2020

Enclosure

Monastic Enclosure A Benedictine abbey traditionally has a monastic enclosure 1. The purpose of a monastic enclosure is to create a boundary or membrane between the community and wider society. St Benedict seems to understand monastic enclosure as protecting the monks from what they might experience beyond the monastic confines. “If the porter needs help, let …

One hundred years

A brief history of the monastic community at St Benedict’s Abbey, Ealing and a description of how the monastic community has developed some of its apostolates for more than one hundred years. Our monastic apostolate is an expression of our Benedictine and monastic identity. Our shared community life and our celebration of the divine liturgy as established and regulated …

Through the Gatehouse

What is a Gatehouse?                                        How do I pass through? What shall I find within? How do I get out? Will I be changed? They may be ‘key holders’ or ‘gatekeepers’ who control access and exit to …