A peaceful Benedictine monastery overlooking British Columbia’s spectacular Fraser Valley

You’re thinking of Westminster Abbey in London but we’re talking about the one in Mission, British Columbia!

It’s actually a Benedictine monastery, not an “Abbey” in the UK sense, but locals often just call it “the Abbey.”

The full name is Abbey of Saint Joseph of Westminster. There is a community of Benedictine monks that live in this space that was founded in 1939 by monks from Mount Angel Abbey, Oregon. The Abbey started in Ladner in 1931, moved to Burnaby in 1940, then became an independent Abbey in 1953, when it moved to Mission. The current church was completed in 1982.

The Abbey Church is Gothic-inspired with a stone facade, pointed arches, stained-glass windows, and an elevated cathedral ceiling. It’s very peaceful and beautiful.

Seminary of Christ the King – this is the only Anglophone high school seminary in Canada, and it trains men for the priesthood, who follow “Ora et Labora” — “Pray and Work”. The grounds cover 173 acres with gardens, walking trails, cloisters & a lookout point over the Fraser River and Abbotsford. There’s also a working farm with cattle. There is a Library & Archives that houses historical documents and religious texts.

The Abbey is serene & scenic, with views of the Fraser River Valley. It’s best to visit in Spring to early Fall for the gardens, but Winter is quietly beautiful too. It’s a super place, popular for quiet walks, photos, and just sitting in the church.

4 Things You May Not Know About The Abbey

1. It’s Home to Canada’s Only English-Language High School Seminary

The Seminary of Christ the King, located on the Abbey grounds, is the only English-language high school seminary in Canada. Young men discerning a vocation to the priesthood can complete both their secondary education and spiritual formation in one place.

2. The Abbey Sits on 173 Acres of Working Monastic Land

Most visitors don’t realize the Abbey is much more than the church. The monks maintain 173 acres of farmland, forests, walking trails and gardens. In the past they managed a working cattle farm, continuing the Benedictine tradition of “Ora et Labora” (Pray and Work) that has guided monastic life for over 1,500 years.

3. The Monks Produced One of Canada’s Most Famous Monastery Breads

The Benedictine monks are well known, in the past, for baking Westminster Abbey Bread, made on-site using traditional recipes. Their bakery became a destination in itself, with visitors travelling from across British Columbia to purchase fresh bread directly from the Abbey. Their focus today is on the Abbey and the Guest house.

4. You Can Stay Overnight at Westminster Abbey!

Yes, you can actually stay at Westminster Abbey, in Mission. The Benedictine monastery operates a guesthouse that offers overnight accommodations. The facility features 45 single rooms.

The guesthouse provides limited accommodations for overnight guests, including groups (men and/or women).

Making Reservations:

Please make your reservation by contacting our guestmaster,
Br Paschasius Roca osb, either by filling out the online contact form or by phone: Tel: 604 826 8975