Hill-Murray Takes Stewardship of St. Paul's Monastery After Vatican Approval

St. Paul's Monastery in Maplewood and Hill-Murray School have entered into a formal arrangement that places the school in charge of the monastery's physical assets. Sister Catherine Nehotte, the prioress of the monastery, noted that the process took longer than expected because the community waited for final permission from the Vatican. The covenant, known as Mutual Blessings, was announced on Oct. 20, ending a period of uncertainty regarding the long-term care of the historic property.

The path to this agreement began with years of internal discussion among the Benedictine Sisters. They considered various options for their future, including transitioning into hospice or elderly care. However, the group favored a model that would keep their values connected to young people. Sister Catherine explained that the sisters listen deeply to their vocation, a practice rooted in the Rule of St. Benedict. They ultimately chose Hill-Murray because the school was founded by the sisters and shares their educational heritage.

The current community at St. Paul's Monastery consists of 15 members. Sister Catherine acknowledged that the median age of the group is rising, making long-term planning essential. She described the support received during the discernment process as wonderful, noting that the sisters felt a strong connection to Hill-Murray. The school had previously selected the building constructed by the sisters when it merged with another institution in 1971, a fact Sister Catherine cited as a point of pride.

Melissa Dan, president of Hill-Murray and a Benedictine Oblate, stated that the school feels a responsibility to honor the shared history of the two institutions. She said the values of simplicity, humility, and silence resonate strongly with current students. Dan argued that the Benedictine emphasis on listening and seeking God in everyday life is particularly relevant in a divided and noisy world. The school offers a Certificate in Benedictine Formation, which teaches students about these principles.

The transfer of stewardship requires Hill-Murray to manage the property and maintain sufficient funds for the sisters' care through the end of their lives. Because the property holds substantial value, the monastic congregation, a group representing 10 monasteries, had to review the plan before sending it to Rome for final sign-off. This step ensured that the financial and physical obligations were met according to the standards of the order.

Sister Catherine said the arrangement allows the sisters to be relieved of administrative burdens. She expressed confidence that the current funds are adequate for their care, noting that Hill-Murray has already supported the community in many ways. The name Mutual Blessings reflects the reciprocal nature of the deal, where the school serves the monastery while the monastery's legacy continues to shape the school's culture.

With the property now under a single administrative roof, Dan anticipates improvements in operational efficiency. She said the two entities are better together and that the school will continue to look at how the Benedictine legacy impacts its future. The covenant ensures that the sisters can remain on the campus while the school takes on the logistical responsibilities of maintaining the grounds and buildings.