On the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, December 12, 2011, the Norbertine Community of Santa Maria de la Vid was elevated to become a new canonry, the second independent daughter house of St. Norbert Abbey.

This was a joyous occasion. This is an opportunity for new life fulfilling the vision set forth by St. Norbert Abbey in 1985 when it missioned five men to New Mexico. St. Norbert Abbey hoped to establish the first independent Norbertine foundation in the southwestern United States. That dream has at last been realized.

The Most Reverend Michael J. Sheehan, Archbishop of Santa Fe, presided at the mass of independence. Abbot Gary Neville, O. Praem., of St. Norbert Abbey presented the Abbatial Bull declaring the independence and foundation. Abbot Richard Antonucci, O. Praem. of Daylesford Abbey outside Philadelphia and Abbot Eugene Hayes, O. Praem., of St. Michael's Abbey in California were present as well. Many other Norbertines from around the United States, Norbertine oblates, lay associates, and friends of the community were also in attendance.

Fr. Joel P. Garner, O. Praem., was elected superior of the new Norbertine canonry for a six year term.

• Read Abbot Gary Neville, O. Praem.'s homily for the occasion
  
  
• Read the address "A Promise of Hope Toward the Future" presented by Frater Graham Golden, O. Praem. on behalf of the men in formation.
  
  
• See the press release from the Office of Communication of the Archdiocese of Santa Fe.
  
  
• Listen to Radio Interviews about Our Independence

Check out photos from the event!