Ave Maria University in Florida is making plans to establish a new campus at Mount Melleray Abbey in County Waterford, Ireland. This move is deeply tied to the local Catholic community and aims to create a lasting connection.
Daniel Schreck, the university’s chief strategy officer, shared, “We’re not just offering a cultural exchange. We want students to understand the rich traditions of Ireland, especially the local culture, the town of Cappoquin, and the Cistercian order.” The goal is to make this site a permanent home for students, not just a temporary visit.
The abbey closed in January 2025, mainly due to the decrease in the Cistercian community. The monks decided to consolidate their resources with other abbeys, prompting Ave Maria to acquire the property. The university plans to welcome its first class of 100 students in the fall of 2026. Recent numbers from a launch event indicate strong interest, with about 500 attendees and 300 applications already submitted.
A Blend of Education and Tradition
The university aims for its academic program to reflect both its liberal arts focus and the Cistercian way of life. Samuel Shephard, the Executive Director for the Mount Melleray Campus, explained that students will engage with core subjects such as theology, philosophy, and science while also studying Irish-specific topics. These will include the Irish language, Church history, and notable saints.
In addition to classes, students will immerse themselves in the Cistercian tradition of study, work, and prayer. Plans are underway to restore the abbey’s farm and workshops, providing hands-on opportunities for students. A priest will reside on campus, offering regular Mass and spiritual activities, including Cistercian chant.
Shephard highlighted the significance of the vow of stability among Cistercians. He explained, “They focus on a consistent rhythm of life in a particular place, which emphasizes a strong sense of location and history.”
Restoring a Beacon of Faith
Shephard, who grew up in Ireland, emphasized the abbey’s legacy as a cornerstone of faith for the local community. It originally opened in 1832, built by Cistercian monks expelled from France during the Revolution. The townspeople of Cappoquin participated in this effort, creating a deep-rooted bond between the abbey and the community. With the arrival of Ave Maria University, locals feel a renewed sense of hope.
The abbey’s shop, café, and a pilgrim’s hostel will remain open for visitors, especially those on the Declan’s Way pilgrimage. “It’s a way to publicly affirm Mount Melleray’s lasting purpose,” Shephard noted.
Nurturing Vocations
Another important aspect of this initiative is fostering vocational discernment. Schreck mentioned that students will have opportunities to explore their futures in a serene environment—limited Wi-Fi, silent retreats, and clear guidelines regarding interactions between genders will support this.
The goal is to inspire a new generation of vocations within the Cistercian community. “We believe that by bringing in around 200 students each year, we can help revive interest in religious life, especially among young men,” Shephard said.
This venture aims not only to educate students but to create a vibrant faith community that respects and builds upon the historical and spiritual fabric of Ireland.
For more insights into the historical significance of the Mount Melleray Abbey, you can explore the Cistercian tradition here.
Source link
ireland,ave-maria-university,catholic-news
