Priory of Saint Rafael Arnaiz
Burgos, Spain
Located in the archdiocese and city of Burgos, in the suburb of San Cristobal, the monastery where the brothers have been living since May 2024 was built by the community of Cistercian Sisters of Calatrava in the late 1970s. These sisters have been present in the diocese for over 800 years and dedicated this monastery to Saint Felices. The brothers have also entrusted it to the patronage of Brother Rafael Arnaiz, a young Cistercian saint who was born in Burgos. The brothers were struck by how the providence of God led them to this humble and peaceful monastery, marked by the spirit of Saint Bernard, as it is located in the native diocese of Saint Dominic de Guzmán, one of the great inspirations of the brothers’ charism.
The primary mission of this priory is to be a house of formation. For this reason, many brothers study at the Faculty of Theology (Facultad de Teología del Norte de España). The priory also aims at providing a small “spiritual oasis” for all who need it by welcoming individuals and groups to share in the brothers’ life of prayer, study, and charity. The priests of the monastery also support the local Church by regularly celebrating Masses throughout the archdiocese, particularly in rural parishes. In this way, they hope to respond to the Holy Father’s call to fill these depopulated regions with God (cf. Address of Pope Francis, April 27, 2024).
“God loves me so much that not even the angels understand it!“
– Saint Rafael Maria Arnaiz
“Have charity for one another, remain humble and make voluntary poverty your treasure.”
– The Testament of Saint Dominique