St Benedict's Abbey

In 1857, Benedictine monks founded St. Benedict’s Abbey in Atchison, Kansas, to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ and the Catholic faith throughout the new American territory west of the Missouri River. The monks in our order rode hundreds of miles to the North and South and West, to gather Catholics, administer the sacraments, and found parishes. They also co-founded the “schools for the Lord's Service” that would become Maur Hill-Mount Academy and Benedictine College.

Today, from the great stone abbey towering high above the river, we serve as priests, spiritual directors, chaplains, and professors. Always guided by The Rule of St. Benedict and a commitment to prayer, work, and hospitality.

You are welcome to visit our home, and to join us in our celebrations of common prayer each day. The Abbey grounds afford an atmosphere in which quiet reflection and prayer are accessible to all. Men and women wishing to spend the night in our guest house, in the atmosphere of our monastic life, are most welcome. For more information see our Guest House Page.

The monastery is situated on the bluffs of the Missouri River, adjacent to the northeast corner of the campus of Benedictine College.