We, the Benedictine Monks of Richmond, Virginia have had a presence in this area since 1860. In 1911, Benedictine Priory was formed, a foundation of Belmont Abbey in North Carolina, the Priory was located on Sheppard Street in what was then a “rural” part of Richmond.

On June 08, 1989 we were elevated to the status of an Abbey under the patronage of Mary Mother of the Church. We have the distinction of being the “youngest” Abbey in the United States.

Today, Mary Mother of the Church Abbey is located just west of Richmond, in a peaceful setting on approximately 50 acres overlooking the historic James River. Nearby is Tuckahoe Plantation, the home where Thomas Jefferson began his early education.

Currently, the Abbey is a home for eleven solemnly professed monks, Brothers and Priests, sharing in the common life following the Rule of Saint Benedict.

The Monks come together three times a day as a community to pray the Liturgy of the hours, with the Convential Mass being celebrated each morning. Visiting the Abbey one may take part in the Liturgy of the Hours and Conventual Mass. Guests are also welcome to the Perpetual Adoration Chapel, the new Abbey Gift Shop, and the Shroud of Turin Center.

Our main apostolates are Benedictine High School, located downtown Richmond and here at the Abbey is the retreat and conference center. It os a 54-bed center with 7 conference rooms, an 85-seat conference and dining facilities.

The Abbey hosts hundreds of visitors each year from the many groups that come to the Abbey to hold their retreats and those that come here on personal retreats. Some of the groups that use the Abbey facility are: Richmond Cursillo, Rachel’s Vineyard, Hispanic Ministry, Sunshine Emmaus, Youth 2000 and Department of Corrections.

We also host and give retreats to several parish confirmation classes. Each year, the Abbey also hosts the Rosary Congress and Divine Mercy Sunday conference. On the first Sunday of each month is our Oblate program.