Benedictine Monks Celebrate New Monastery in Norcia After Earthquake Recovery

Celebration of Renewal: The New Monastery in Norcia

While they may have opted for a life steeped in contemplation and prayer, last month a small community of Benedictine monks made headlines with a grand celebration to inaugurate their new monastery, perched on a hill overlooking the historic town of Norcia, the birthplace of St. Benedict. This joyous occasion marked a significant milestone, occurring eight years after a catastrophic earthquake had ravaged much of Norcia and obliterated their former monastic home.

The festivities began with a solemn Mass, followed by a delightful seated dinner that welcomed 1,000 attendees, nearly half of whom were local residents of Norcia. This event not only signified the monks’ official settlement into their new abode but also served as a beacon of hope for a region grappling with the aftermath of natural disasters and prolonged depopulation.

During the celebration, the monks showcased “Nursia,” their artisanal craft beer, whose proceeds played a vital role in funding the restoration of the 16th-century Capuchin monastery they had purchased after returning to Norcia 25 years prior, following a long hiatus of two centuries. The event was a testament to resilience, inspiring the community and emphasizing the monks’ commitment to rebuilding after adversity.

Alberto Naticchioni, a former mayor of Norcia, reflected on the monks’ determination, stating, “They could have chosen to leave after the earthquake. Instead, they rolled up their sleeves and began the arduous task of rebuilding. Their efforts sent a powerful message of hope to the community.”

The Rev. Benedict Nivakoff noted how the local populace is often inspired by the monks’ dedication, leading to generous donations as they purchase cases of the monastery’s craft beer. This sense of community support has been vital in the healing process for Norcia.

Norcia was one of the 138 towns and villages in the central Apennines that suffered extensive damage from the earthquakes of 2016. Just two months after a devastating tremor in August, which claimed nearly 300 lives, Norcia was rocked by a magnitude-6.5 earthquake—the strongest to hit Italy since 1980. This new chapter for the Benedictine monks and the town of Norcia represents a hopeful step towards recovery and revitalization.