Historic abbey which is home to Catholic Benedictine Monks builds female retreat
A FEMALE retreat at an abbey which is home to an order of Benedictine monks is close to completion.
And although poor weather has delayed its opening by another month, a musical celebration will go ahead as planned in September.
The event on September 7 will include performances from three professional soloists – Kathryn Arnould, Joshie Baxter and Andrew McIntosh.
The Catholic Benedictine Monks are living in the only medieval British monastery still being used for its original purpose.
The abbey dates back to 1230 and was founded by King Alexander II.
Ten years ago a South Range Project was launched locally to create a female retreat.
Lieutenant Colonel Grenville Johnston, the appeal chairman, said the building process had been impacted by the Covid pandemic and the increase in the cost of materials.
“The end is now in sight. The building is nearing completion,” he said.
“Plans to celebrate this wonderful achievement have been based on the original completion date.”
A performance of Hayden’s ‘Creation’ – the brainchild of conductor Brian Smith – will include an orchestra of 21 led by Alexander Davidson and a 75-strong choir drawn primarily from Forres Chorale and Buckie Choral Union.
Lt Col Johnston, a former Lord Lieutenant of Moray, said it was still important to keep fundraising over the next few weeks while the project reaches its conclusion.
A peace vigil for Ukraine and other countries affected by conflict was held at the abbey earlier this year.
For details of how to support the fundraising, email david@pluscardenabbey.org
