Ampleforth Abbey 

Statuatory Information

The life and works of the monks of the Abbey of St Laurence are influenced by four jurisdictions: the Rule of St Benedict, the Constitutions of the English Benedictine Congregation, Canon [or Church] Law, and Civil law.

Ampleforth’s various Trusts and other legal bodies are subject to provisions of civil law, especially those elements pertaining to companies and registered charities.

In 1944, the entire estate, including the various parishes and outlying properties, was settled into a single deed and the deed became a registered charity. This is called the Ampleforth Abbey Trust. The works of the charity include the formation and subsequent ministry of Benedictine monks of Ampleforth Abbey, the maintenance of the monastic community and its property, education, the welcoming of guests and parish work in dioceses of the Roman Catholic Church.

The Trust board comprises lay and monastic trustees with oversight in a number of key areas, including safeguarding, strategy, finance, and estate management. The trustees meet bi-monthly.

Elements of Ampleforth’s works which are not part of the charitable trust (e.g. Tea Room, shop, commercial enterprises, etc.) are governed by a separate company established in 1952, Ampleforth Abbey Trading Limited, a private company limited by shares.