400 Years of Austrian Congregation

On 30 May 2025, the Austrian Benedictine Congregation commenced its 400th anniversary celebrations with a pilgrimage to Mariazell Basilica. The event was attended by monks and nuns from the congregation's 14 monasteries, including 12 abbeys and 2 priories, comprising approximately 250 members.

Abbot Primate Jeremias Schröder, the global head of the Benedictine Confederation, presided over the festive Mass at the Mariazell Basilica. In his homily, he reflected on the theme of "pilgrims of hope," aligning with the Holy Year 2025's motto. He highlighted that Benedictine life embodies a hopeful response to the trials of modern times, urging the monastic communities to remain open to renewal and to continue their solidarity with monasteries in less affluent regions.

Abbot President Johannes Perkmann expressed gratitude for centuries of collaboration and emphasised the congregation's ongoing commitment to spiritual life, education, and sustainable initiatives. He described Benedictine life as a meaningful way to live out the Gospel and find fulfilment in today's world.

The Austrian Benedictine Congregation was officially established on 3 August 1625 by Pope Urban VIII. Today, it encompasses monasteries such as the Abbey of Saint Peter in Salzburg, Kremsmünster, Melk, Göttweig, and the Schotten Abbey in Vienna. The congregation also oversees the Collegium Saint Benedict in Salzburg, a study house for Benedictines and other religious.

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