Pluscarden Abbey
We are a community of Catholic Benedictine monks living in the only medieval British monastery still being used for its original purpose.
Situated in north-east Scotland, six miles south-west of Elgin in Moray, the monastery enjoys the peace and stillness of a secluded glen, but is easily reached by road from the town. The atmosphere of quiet reflection and of work dedicated to the glory of God is the same now as it was in the thirteenth century, when a community of monks first came to this part of Moray.
If you visit the Abbey today, you can enjoy not only the beauty of its architecture and its setting but also something of the restful atmosphere of devotion that has so deeply permeated this little corner of Scotland. The Mass and full Divine Office are sung by the monks each day in the Abbey church, using Gregorian Chant.
Guests are received in the two guest houses: men and women of all faiths are welcome to make a retreat here and to share in the prayer and work of the community, or simply rest and renew their focus on what is most important.
O Vere Beata Nox! Holy Week Invitation 2025
The Prior and Monks of Pluscarden invite young people (aged 18-35) to celebrate the Liturgy with them from Wednesday of Holy Week until Easter (16 – 21 April).
St. Scholastica’s retreat will be set aside for our younger guests: both male and female. This is a self-catering house. Essentials are supplied by the monastery, but otherwise people need to bring their own food supplies. Contributions by donation are gratefully received: though it is assumed that students would stay without any charge.
Those taking part will be able to celebrate these, the most holy days of the year, with full immersion in the monastic liturgy. There will be plenty of time also for silent prayer and reading, or for local walks in this beautiful area, or for speaking, as desired, with a monk.
If you are interested in joining the Pluscarden Community for this celebration of Easter, please contact Br Benedict Joseph Miller OSB by email at guestmaster@pluscardenabbey.org or through our online form: www.pluscardenabbey.org
Pluscarden Pentecost Lectures 2025
Each year the Abbot and Community of Pluscarden Abbey sponsor a series of four lectures by an invited Theologian on an aspect of Catholic Theology.
They are open to all who wish to attend and are free (donations are always welcome). Limited accommodation is available at the Abbey and those who wish to stay should book as soon as possible. There are also many places to stay in the Elgin area: contact the local tourist office: 01343 542666
Lectures 2025: Trinitarian Anthropology
What Does it Mean for all of Creation to be Marked by the Form of the Trinity?
The Lecturer: Tracey Rowland
Monastic Experience Weekend
Experience life as a monk
The Pluscarden Abbey Monastic Experience Weekend is a long-established event which normally takes place every August.
The community of Benedictine monks at Pluscarden offer this special opportunity for participants to experience what monastic life is all about. The opportunity is suitable for single men who are Catholic, practise their faith, are aged 18-40, and at least open to the possibility of considering a monastic vocation.
Participants will join the monks in their daily prayer and work, and will be offered a close-up insight into some of the treasures of the monastic tradition. The weekend should be interesting, enjoyable, and grace-filled. It may also be of assistance in the process of discerning one's vocation in life. There will be no charge for the weekend.
2025 dates:
2025 Dates: Friday 22nd — Monday 25th August
For poster and leaflet downloads or to apply, please visit our Monastic Experience Page here.
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