Please note that the road between Byland and Wass is closed from 15 May to 19 June 2026. Compline is at 7.30pm currently. No public Vigils, Midday Office or Compline on Thursday 18 June.

STUDY DAY: Church Architecture Ancient and Modern

On Saturday 13 June the Stanbrook community, oblates and friends met for the annual Study Day. The theme was chosen to mark the tenth anniversary of the Dedication of the Abbey Church on 6 September 2025.

In the morning Dom Edmund Wales OSB, monk of Ampleforth Abbey, gave a richly illustrated talk on Roman Basilicas which was followed by questions and a lively exchange of comments.
After Midday prayer participants enjoyed a convivial lunch in the monastic refectory.

The afternoon session was in two parts: D. Laurentia gave a presentation on the morphology and evolution of the abbey church at Wass. This was followed by guided tours led by M. Anna and D. Philippa. A small exhibition of maps, plans and photographs accompanied the presentation.
The day concluded with tea and conversation though some oblates stayed on for Vespers.