Having reached his 75th year on May 9, 2024, Abbot Mark Cooper, O.S.B., submitted his letter of resignation effective April 30, 2024, in accordance with the Constitutions of the American Cassinese Congregation of which Saint Anselm Abbey is a member. The abbatial election will take place April 29-30, 2024. This is a significant moment in the life of the monastic community. Consequently, the monastic community has entered into a period of prayer, preparation, and discernment.
The Abbot President has appointed Father Francis McCarty, O.S.B., to serve as secretary of the election. The members of the abbatial election steering committee include Father Augustine Kelly, O.S.B., Father Benet Phillips, O.S.B., Brother Andrew Thornton, O.S.B., and Brother Isaac Murphy, O.S.B. On March 12 and 20, the members of the steering committee will offer presentations for the college community about the process of an abbatial election. More details regarding the presentations will follow.
We ask that you remember us in your prayers as we prepare for the election of an abbot.