Belmont at 100: Photos from the Archives
Abbot Brendan Thomas • July 22, 2020
This year we mark the Centenary of Belmont becoming an independent Abbey. (It was built and founded in 1859 and up to this point the monastery had mainly served as a Common Novitiate and House of Studies, and the church as a Cathedral). Here are some historic photographs.
It is sad that we have not been able to celebrate together this Centenary as we had planned. We have dug these photos out of our archives. They reveal what Belmont looked like at different times in the past.
Written on the back of this photo is "50th Anniversary of the Cathedral Priory (the only one in the world!)"
This historic status would change 5 years later when Belmont became an independent Abbey.
Belmont in 1859: The could be the oldest photo we have of Belmont, the year it was built. Notice the original entrance to the church on the south side, which is now the Memorial Altar chapel.
Belmont Abbey Organ is the second largest organ in the County of Herefordshire. It has 3 manuals (keyboards) and 54 stops and is second only to the organ of Hereford Cathedral (4 Manuals and 67 stops) - Belmont has the largest organ in our Catholic Diocese.
Charlotte Carver writes about her experience of writing attending one of Fr Alex's Icon workshops.
Many friends came together to celebrate with Fr James his 30th anniversary of ordination to the priesthood - his Silver Jubilee had fallen during covid.
Abbot Brendan Reflects on Pope Leo's words to the Benedictines worldwide
July and August 2026: 3 workshops let by Fr Alex Echeandia, Prior of the Monastery of Lurin
9th to 11th January 2026 A weekend for young men to experience the monastic life and join in the prayer and life of the community.
28th November at 6.45pm You are welcome to join an informal service for healing prayer on the last Friday of November. No need to book.
Sat 13th December, 10.00am-12.30am We are delighted that the acclaimed Cistercian writer, Fr Michael Casey will be with us in December.
Monday 1st to Thursday 4th December 2025. Our first Advent retreat in our newly opened guesthouse