International Community
Since the summer of 2022, the priory of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is home to an international English-speaking community of brothers.
Most of them are studying at different stages at KU Leuven in subjects like philosophy, theology, and canon law. Some of the brothers have pastoral responsibilities in parishes and hospitals, others are cooperating in Dominican projects, are teaching at seminaries and formation centres, or preach retreats. The priory also houses the Provincial Curia of the Belgian Province.
History
Ever since the foundation of our first priory in Leuven in 1228, the brothers have been present and have had links with the university. In fact, the election of the Rector of the university and other important meetings took place in the Dominican priory till 1635. Between 1626 and 1797 there was even a second Dominican priory in Leuven, belonging to the Irish Dominicans. After a short absence starting in 1796 due to the French Revolution, the brothers returned to Leuven in 1856, be it to a different location. In 1971, the old priory buildings were replaced by the current buildings at the Ravenstraat 98.
Renovation
Currently, the priory buildings are undergoing major reconstruction works to enable the community’s mission, including the creation of accommodation for lay students to come and live next to the priory and occasionally participate in the Dominican life through the daily liturgies, lectures, and other activities. In the future, the community hopes to develop new theological and preaching initiatives together with congregations of Dominican sisters and the Dominican laity.
