Evron Abbey
Évron Mayenne Founded in 1976
Pray at the rhythm of seminarians, for the time of a retreat
Notre-Dame d'Évron Abbey, in Mayenne (Pays de la Loire), between Le Mans and Laval, is home to the motherhouse and formation house of the Communauté Saint-Martin. Founded in the Carolingian era around the tomb of Saint Hadouin, it became a Benedictine monastic center in the Middle Ages and later a chapter of canons. It preserves an abbatial church blending Romanesque and Gothic art. Today, the place is peaceful and vibrant, marked by liturgical beauty and prayer, shaped by lectio divina, Lauds sung in Gregorian chant, daily Mass, and Vespers.
At the heart of a small, verdant town, in a serene setting conducive to prayer, meditation, and intellectual work, the abbey welcomes guests for a spiritual retreat, to discern a priestly vocation, or to study for exams. The Évron train station, a ten-minute walk away, puts Paris less than two hours away.
What awaits you
Practical information
Liturgy
Participation in the liturgical prayer of the formation house is required for staying at the guest house. The day begins with Lauds sung in Gregorian chant, followed by daily Mass and Vespers in the evening.
Meals
Meals are taken in the refectory with the seminarians, most often in silence, in a warm atmosphere that fosters sharing and fellowship.
Manual work
Guests take part in ordinary tasks after meals (washing dishes and setting the table). Gardening work may also be offered upon request.
Library & study
The seminarians' library is available for working in a studious setting. A shared study room is also available depending on availability. Students wishing to review for their exams are welcome.
Accommodation
The guest house, set apart from the seminary, offers around twenty places in simple, comfortable rooms, bordering a formal French garden. An oratory dedicated to Saint Joseph is accessible at all hours. The abbey welcomes men only.
Arrival & departure
Reception is handled by the seminarian guest master. Personal stays are possible at any time of year, subject to availability at the guest house.
Getting there
The Évron train station, located a 10-minute walk from the abbey, is accessible by train from Le Mans or Laval.
Allow 2h40 from Paris, 1h15 from Rennes, 1h30 from Angers, and 50 minutes from Le Mans.
The abbey is accessible by bike.