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Mount Angel Seminary

Saint Benedict, OR

private nonprofitgraduate

About Mount Angel Seminary

Discover spiritual formation and academic excellence at Mount Angel Seminary, rooted in Benedictine tradition.

Mount Angel Seminary offers a unique and enriching educational experience, deeply rooted in the Benedictine tradition. Known for serving numerous dioceses across the western United States, it provides a comprehensive formation for those pursuing priesthood and also offers robust academic programs for lay students. The seminary stands as a beacon of intellectual and spiritual growth, fostering an environment where students can explore philosophy, theology, and the liberal arts.

Its history began in 1882 with the founding of Mount Angel Abbey by Benedictine monks from Switzerland. This strong foundation led to the opening of Mount Angel College in 1887, and just two years later, a seminary was established in conjunction with the college. Over time, the institution evolved, sharpening its focus on seminary education while retaining a strong emphasis on the liberal arts, making it a distinctive place of learning that combines rich tradition with contemporary academic rigor.

Academically, Mount Angel Seminary is renowned for its diverse offerings. Undergraduate students can pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree with majors in philosophy, or double majors in Philosophy and Literature, or Philosophy and Religious Studies. For graduate students, the seminary's Graduate School of Theology provides advanced degrees including an MDiv, MA (Theology), STB, and DMin. Whether preparing for ordained ministry or seeking a deeper understanding of faith and reason, students benefit from a dedicated faculty and a vibrant intellectual community.

The student experience is enhanced by the serene beauty of the campus and its commitment to sustainable practices, evidenced by award-winning architecture. The seminary's main church, with its impressive tower housing the West Coast's largest free-swinging bells, symbolizes the enduring spirit and grandeur of this institution. It’s a place where tradition meets innovation, and where every student is encouraged to grow intellectually, spiritually, and personally.

Key Highlights

  • Serves numerous western dioceses, making it a vital regional center for priestly formation.
  • Home to approximately 170 students across its various programs.
  • The main church tower houses the largest free-swinging bells on the West Coast.
  • Offers undergraduate Bachelor of Arts degrees in Philosophy, Literature, and Religious Studies.
  • Provides graduate degrees including MDiv, MA (Theology), STB, and DMin for both lay and priesthood-bound students.
  • A new seminary building received a Best Sustainable Award for Oregon and Washington in 2006.
  • A new bell tower was erected in 2007, commemorating the Abbey's 125th anniversary.

Timeline

1882
Mount Angel Abbey founded by Benedictine monks from Engelberg, Switzerland.
1887
Mount Angel College opened by the monks.
1889
Seminary established in conjunction with Mount Angel College at the request of Archbishop William Gross.
2006
A new seminary building received a Best Sustainable Award for Oregon and Washington.
2007
A new bell tower was erected to commemorate the Abbey's 125th anniversary.

Schools & Colleges

2 notable schools within Mount Angel Seminary

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Liberal Arts College

Offering undergraduate Bachelor of Arts degrees with majors in Philosophy, or double majors in Philosophy and Literature, or Philosophy and Religious Studies.

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Graduate School of Theology

Providing advanced degree programs including MDiv, MA (Theology), STB, and DMin for both lay students and those studying for the priesthood.

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