WHEN THE SAINT JOHN’S ABBEY CHURCH was dedicated in 1961, the Catholic Church as a whole was struggling to modernize itself to meet the spiritual needs of the twentieth century. It recognized the call for a conscious effort at renewal in all areas of the Church’s life, in an attempt to bring the message of Jesus Christ into vital and meaningful contact with the contemporary world. The Abbey Church exemplified this conviction. Timeless in its design and construction, Saint John’s sees its current effort to preserve, repair, and restore the Abbey Church as continuing this renewal. 

Designed by world-renowned architect Marcel Breuer, the Abbey Church of Saint John the Baptist is the iconic symbol of all Saint John’s and a welcoming sign to all who come to Collegeville. The church dominates the landscape of the campus and announces to the world the central place of faith and worship in the life of our community. Structurally considered one of the finest pieces of modern architecture of the twentieth century, the church is in critical need of repair and renewal. After six decades of use, and with an eye to the future, repair of the bell banner and plaza, general concrete restoration, energy-efficient glazing, modernization of electrical, HVAC, and other mechanical systems, a restored and expanded grand organ, and improved sound system, etc. are all required to better serve current and future generations. 

In addition, the lower level of the church needs repurposing for a possible Benedictine Heritage Center; a facility that would better inform students, parishioners, and guests about our Benedictine heritage and values. The Abbey and university are committed to tending to this iconic structure of Saint John’s and the Church and ask for your assistance in preserving this important symbol of faith. Your help is essential for the completion of this very important renovation.