About Daylesford abbey
Daylesford Abbey: A Haven of Peace in the Heart of Chester County
Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Chester County, Pennsylvania, Daylesford Abbey is a Norbertine community of Catholic priests and brothers that has been serving the local community for over 60 years. Founded in 1952 by a group of Norbertine monks from Berne Abbey in Holland, Daylesford Abbey has become a spiritual oasis for those seeking peace, reflection, and renewal.
At its core, Daylesford Abbey is a place where people can come to deepen their faith and connect with God. Whether you are looking to attend Mass or participate in one of our many retreats or workshops, we offer a wide range of opportunities for spiritual growth and development. Our beautiful chapel provides an intimate setting for prayer and contemplation while our peaceful grounds offer ample space for quiet reflection.
One thing that sets Daylesford Abbey apart from other religious communities is our commitment to hospitality. We believe that everyone who comes through our doors should be treated with kindness and respect regardless of their background or beliefs. Whether you are here for a day retreat or an extended stay, we strive to make your experience as comfortable and welcoming as possible.
In addition to our spiritual offerings, Daylesford Abbey also serves as an important resource for the local community. We provide counseling services through our pastoral care department as well as educational programs on topics such as social justice and environmental stewardship. Our outreach efforts extend beyond Chester County too; we have sister abbeys around the world including Belgium, Brazil, Congo-Kinshasa (Zaire), Democratic Republic Of The Congo (DRC), France among others.
If you are looking for a place where you can find peace amidst life's chaos then look no further than Daylesford Abbey! With its serene surroundings and welcoming atmosphere it truly is an oasis in today's busy world.
Our History
The history of Daylesford abbey dates back over six decades when it was founded by Dutch Norbertines who had fled Europe during World War II. They arrived at St Joseph's University campus on City Avenue Philadelphia before moving into what was then known as "Dayle Farm" which they renamed "Daylestown". The farm had been owned by John Wanamaker Jr., son Wanamaker Department Store founder John Wanamaker Sr., who had purchased it from his father-in-law William Lukens Elkins after his death.
The first mass at Daylestown was celebrated on September 14th 1952 by Father Bernard Pennings O.Praem., founder Abbot General Emeritus Of The Order Of Prémontré (Norbertines). In attendance were Archbishop John F O'Hara C.S.C., Bishop Hugh L Lamb D.D., Bishop George L Leech D.D., Monsignor Francis J Sheed S.T.Lr..
Over time more buildings were added including dormitories which allowed visitors to stay overnight if they wished so they could attend multiple days events like retreats etc.. Today there are several buildings on site including guest houses which can accommodate up to 50 people at once making it ideal location not only individuals but also groups such church organizations etc..
Our Mission
At its core mission statement reads: "We seek God together through common life according to the Gospel message; we celebrate liturgy together; we engage ourselves actively with each other within this monastic community; we serve others outside this monastic community."
This mission statement reflects both the communal nature of life at Daylesford abbey but also its outward focus towards serving others beyond its walls.
As part this mission statement there are several key areas focus:
1) Worship - At heart everything done here revolves around worshiping God whether that be through daily mass services held throughout week or larger events like annual novena celebration honoring St Norbertus Patron Saint Of Premonstratensians (Norbertines).
2) Education - As mentioned earlier education plays important role here too offering classes seminars workshops covering variety topics ranging from theology philosophy social justice environmental stewardship etc..
3) Pastoral Care - Another key area focus pastoral care department which provides counseling services those need whether dealing grief loss addiction depression anxiety relationship issues etc..
4) Outreach - Finally outreach efforts extend beyond walls abbey itself working various organizations charities help those need locally globally alike.
Our Community
At heart everything done here revolves around worshiping God whether that be through daily mass services held throughout week or larger events like annual novena celebration honoring St Norbertus Patron Saint Of Premonstratensians (Norbertines).
But what makes us unique isn't just what happens inside walls but rather how interact with world outside them too! For example every year during Lent members go out into surrounding neighborhoods distribute ashes mark beginning season penance preparation Easter Sunday celebrations ahead!
Another way interact wider world hosting various events open public ranging concerts art exhibits lectures book signings more! These provide opportunities not only share message love Christ but also learn about different cultures perspectives enriching lives all involved.
Conclusion
In conclusion if you're looking place find peace amidst chaos look no further than Daylesford abbey! With serene surroundings welcoming atmosphere truly oasis today's busy world providing opportunity deepen faith connect God while also engaging wider issues affecting society large such social justice environmental stewardship among others!
So why wait? Come visit us soon see yourself why so many people have found refuge within these walls over years past present alike!
daylesford.org
