Monks in Moncks Corner

Beautifully situated on the banks of the Cooper River on what was originally Native American hunting ground, Mepkin Abbey has been home to Trappist monks since 1949.

View along the Cooper River

The original Mepkin Plantation was purchased in 1936 by Henry and Clare Booth Luce who later donated much of the property to the Abbey of Gethsemani (in Kentucky) for the purpose of establishing a monastic community in South Carolina. Mepkin Abbey was founded 13 years later, in 1949.

According to their web site, the monks are Roman Catholic monks who belong to the worldwide Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance. They are part of a tradition that was formalized in the sixth century by St. Benedict of Nursia, Italy. The Cistercians renewed their tradition at the Norman Abbey of La Trappe in the mid 17th century, thereafter being popularly known as “Trappist” monks.

Entrance to the Mepkin Garden

Soon after the Luces bought the property in 1936, Mrs. Luce commissioned landscape architect Loutrell Briggs to create the Mepkin Gardens which were renovated in 1988 by Nancy Bryan Luce, the wife of Henry Luce III. This is now perhaps the most beautiful and meditative part of the monastery grounds. And, yes, you can picnic here.

Detail of Christ’s hand

As you wander the grounds—and you can leisurely explore most of the outdoor areas—you will see some pleasant statuary. One of the nicest is a slightly larger than life-size sculpture of Christ and the disciple John. Their hands in particular are sensitively done.

Elsewhere you’ll find grand oaks, palmettos, ponds (watch out for alligators, they say), and large lawns. You want to just sprawl on the grass, look up at the moss-adorned trees, and savor the pastoral quietude.

If you (men and women) are interested in visiting for more than an afternoon or day, you can sign up as a ‘retreatant’ and stay in one of the guest cabins. Men (only) who want to learn about possibly becoming monks can stay for 30 days or more to live, work, and pray with the resident monks.

Formerly famous for their fresh eggs, the monks now grow and sell mushrooms. To learn more, click the logo below.

Mepkin Abbey
Off Hwy 402 (near Moncks Corner)
Get directions (843) 761 8509