An Anglican religious community for men, deeply engaged in prayer, worship, and ministry, with a broad impact within the Anglican Communion.
The Community of the Resurrection (CR), an Anglican monastic community established in 1892, is based in Mirfield, West Yorkshire, England. It was initially founded in Oxford by members of the Oxford Movement, including Charles Gore, who sought to revitalize Anglican church life through a return to more catholic and sacramental forms of Christianity. The community relocated to Mirfield to be closer to industrial areas, reflecting its commitment to embody a Christ-like presence among the poor and outcast.
CR adheres to a monastic lifestyle with strong Benedictine influences, including vows of celibacy and evangelical counsels. As a male-only community, its members live together, engaging in a routine of prayer, worship, and ministry. The community is deeply rooted in the Anglican tradition and emphasizes a life of hospitality and teaching through its various establishments like the College of the Resurrection and the Mirfield Centre.
The community’s ministry has been diverse and far-reaching, initially focusing on education and mission work both in the United Kingdom and overseas. They established a significant presence in southern England, particularly in London, engaging in ministries for soldiers during the First World War and later in spiritual retreats and missions. CR’s international ministry began early in the 20th century, with significant work in Africa, particularly in South Africa and Zimbabwe. The brethren contributed to educational and pastoral work, supporting local communities and engaging in the struggle against apartheid. This involvement made the Community well-known beyond ecclesiastical circles, extending their ministry to other parts of the world, including Barbados in the West Indies and Malaysia.
Significant to CR’s history is its early and ongoing commitment to ecumenism and international ministry. The community has established connections with the Russian and Romanian Orthodox Churches and has been actively involved in dialogues with the Roman Catholic Church. Their international missions have included founding educational and religious institutions in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and parts of Europe, reflecting its broad Anglican Communion engagement.
The College of the Resurrection, also located in Mirfield, is a significant institution run by the Community. Founded in 1902, it trains men and women for ordination in the Church of England and offers opportunities for others to pursue theological studies. CR also maintains a commitment to ecumenical work and is affiliated with the Congregation of the Annunciation. The Community has strong international links, especially with South Africa and Zimbabwe, continuing to support projects like the “Tariro” orphanage. CR also fosters a wide network of associates, including oblates, companions, and members of the Society of the Resurrection, who share in the Community’s spiritual practices and commitments.
As of 2024, the Community of the Resurrection continues its mission of prayer, worship, and ministry, following the Benedictine tradition of monastic life. Their work includes hospitality, Christian teaching, retreats, spiritual counseling, and ecumenical endeavors. CR is particularly known for its Retreat House at Mirfield and its involvement with the Mirfield Centre, facilitating various events and programs.
image via Mirfield