Finding Peace in the Desert: The Monastery of Christ in the Desert

# Monastery of Christ in the Desert: A Spiritual Community in the New Mexico Wilderness The Monastery of Christ in the Desert is a Benedictine abbey located in Abiquiu, New Mexico, situated on the banks of the Chama River in a remote canyon setting 75 miles north of Santa Fe.[1] Founded in 1964 by Fr. Aelred Wall with monks from Mount Saviour Monastery in New York, the community has grown into a thriving spiritual center that balances contemplative monastic life with practical self-sufficiency.[1][2] ## Mission and Operations The monastery operates as a Roman Catholic organization dedicated to prayer, stewardship, and hospitality.[2][3] The monks follow the Rule of St. Benedict, which emphasizes a disciplined life of work and prayer. Rather than traditional external apostolates, the community focuses on maintaining a guesthouse for personal retreats, allowing visitors of all faiths to participate in daily worship and experience monastic life.[1][2] The monks welcome both day visitors and overnight guests, with the monastery church open Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 5:30 pm.[6] ## Economic Sustainability and Craftsmanship To achieve financial independence, the monks engage in diverse income-generating activities including agriculture, computer work, and crafting beer, soap, lotions, candles, and pottery.[1] They also maintain a gift shop featuring books and religious items, with an online store extending their reach. The monastery operates without direct financial support from the Catholic Church, relying instead on guest donations and product sales.[6] ## Architectural and Spiritual Significance The abbey was designed by renowned architect and woodworker George Nakashima, whose signature blend of Japanese building techniques and American Modernism defines the monastery's aesthetic.[4] The community currently comprises