A striking place of worship is close to being finished in a quaint mountain town in Wyoming.
With a blend of innovative technology and a passion for traditional design, a group of Carmelite monks is working on an impressive 145,000-square-foot French Gothic monastery.
“If this happens, it will be a miracle.”
The plans date back over 10 years when the monks, located in Park County, Wyoming, aimed to address concerns from local ranchers. The community, consisting of about 30,000 residents, had worries about increased tourism, impacts on water resources, and effects on wildlife and ranching. After some discussions, these issues were resolved, allowing the monks to proceed with constructing a grand chapel on their expansive 2,500-acre site, situated about 7 miles away from the nearest neighbor.
In October, news of the almost finished monastery circulated quickly. Photos shared online showcased the building, and it became evident that the project was nearing its completion stage, leading to extensive discussions about the design and structure.
Remarkably, the monks employed cutting-edge technology, including CNC machines, to craft their architecturally stunning buildings. They’re teaching themselves how to carve stone with diamond-tipped tools and learning intricate engineering methods—all without formal training.
This includes creating detailed sculptures like angels and gargoyles out of 4,000 pounds of stone.
They’ve even provided glimpses into their work process via a YouTube channel, illustrating the stone carving techniques and designs created using digital programs.
The monks described their vision, which involves blending height and light with intricate aesthetics, incorporating key architectural features such as pointed arches, large stained glass windows, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses.
The Carmelite Friars in Wyoming identify as a contemplative community under the Diocese of Cheyenne, emphasizing a life of prayer and dedication.
They noted, “Carmelite monks live in the solitude of the mountains, following Carmelite regulations.” Their daily routine involves communal prayers, daily Mass in Latin, spiritual time, physical labor, and reciting the Rosary together.
This monumental piece of architecture is located on a private road named Meeteetse Creek Road. The monks plan to establish a coffee roasting business to support operations, which will include living quarters and a future convent.
At a public hearing back in 2010, Friar Simon Mary expressed that everything about the monastery would be “for the worship of God” and “oriented toward that purpose.”
Mary added, “It would be a miracle if this were to happen.”
