Abbey of Gwlad Caraf  

The Abbey was established in 1997, on August 27, the Feast of St. Zephyrinus, Pope and Martyr, through a deed of Grant and Conveyance to the Abbot Nullius from the Church.

The Holy Order of Saint Sebastian of Port Royal is a Christian community, headed by the Abbot (prelate nullius) of Gwlad Caraf, and requires permanent vows of service to the Faith and Order. The Abbey's purpose and goal is to encourage spiritual growth and the formation of others within the Faith through the twin paths of contemplation, as pursued by Monks, and work within the world for the Glory of God, as with Friars. The Brothers of Saint Sebastian of Port Royal begin as Novices, and upon acceptance by the Abbey and making permanent vows become Brothers. Those Brothers of particular piety may be given the opportunity of further serving their faith by becoming Priors.

Saint Sebastian was a Roman soldier who died honorably for his faith, and advanced Christianity in Europe. Port Royal was a convent in France that stood against changing political climes in France to maintain the practice of their Faith. The Order, then, is dedicated to the Defense of the Faith and the relief of human suffering. Saint Sebastian's Feast Day is January 20th, and he is the patron saint of soldiers. His legend may be read by clicking here.

The Order of Saint Sebastian of Port Royal is a chivalrous order of Knights, created to offer men and women of good character recognition of their Faith and Works, as well as providing them with a shining star of standards by which they can measure their acts and thus nourish their spirits.

Presently, the Order is not accepting new Monks, Friars or Novices. The Grandmaster of the Order of Saint Sebastian of Port Royal occassionally considers new applications for knighthood.

The Abbey enjoys the patronage of the Duke of Peregrine de Flandres.

The Abbey subscribes to the Nicene Creed, and takes the Creed to its heart as the central Statement of Faith of the Order. It may be read by clicking here.

07.07.2003 04:29:49 PM