Visit from our Abbot General

Dom Bernardus Peeters, our Abbot General, paid us a visit from November 5-12.

Cistercian communities are autonomous but united in a communion implemented by the institutions of the Father Immediate, the Regular Visitation, and the General Chapter.

Abbots and Abbesses form a single General Chapter which is the supreme authority of the Order.  They meet every three years to strengthen the bonds of peace and charity within the Order and to make necessary decisions to foster the life of communities.

The General Chapter elects an Abbot General.  He is assisted in this task by a Council based in Rome.  His principal role is to be a bond of unity within the Order.  Above all he is to be a pastor who promotes the spirit of renewal in communities.

The Father Immediate is the abbot of another monastery, whose responsibilities include a formal visit to the community every two years. The Abbot General may also visit communities.

The purpose of the Regular Visitation is to strengthen and supplement the pastoral action of the local superior, to correct where necessary, and to renew the nuns’ or monks’ spiritual fervor.


During these days, Dom Bernardus showed himself a true pastor, listening deeply to the concerns of our hearts, and speaking from his heart about the hope that is ours in Christ, as well as offering valuable feedback and direction in our concrete situation.  We are so grateful for this participation in the life of our Order.