What's an Abbey?

“Abbey” comes from the ancient word “Abba” for father. Starting in the third century, when the Roman Empire became Officially Christian, many people of faith went out into the wilderness where they could follow the teachings of Jesus without getting all tied up in political and economic systems of power. Those people are known to us today as the desert mothers and fathers (Ammas and Abbas) and we hope to follow in their counter-cultural footsteps.

So there's no monks or nuns living there?

Not in the traditional sense, no. We’re single people and partnered people and people with and without children. Some of us live in West Central and some don’t. Some of us have a permanent address and some don’t.

Is the Abbey a church?

The Abbey gathers for liturgy (which means “the work of the people”) on Sunday evenings at 4pm. Some parts of our liturgy are very traditional (Bible readings, prayers, Eucharist) and some parts are more experimental (poems, stories, self-guided prayer stations). But our work and common life together goes beyond a single hour on Sunday and includes many people who do not identify as Christian. We are a part of the Episcopal Diocese of Spokane, which supports and guides our ministry.

What do you believe?

Katy, our priest, is responsible for living the Christian faith to the best of her ability as it has been passed down through the traditions of the church. In that sense, she’s no different than anyone else who aspires to follow the example of Jesus. Some people in our community claim a particular denominational affiliation, like Methodist or Episcopalian. Some describe themselves as formerly Roman Catholic or evangelical. Some practice Buddhist meditation. We’re less concerned about what people believe than we are about becoming a community of grace and belonging for all. If you’d like to know more about how our denomination, The Episcopal Church, understands Christian faith and belief, here’s a good starting point.

Are you open to and affirming of queer people?

YES! We have been shaped and guided by amazing queer leaders since we began. You can always find us at Pride!