History: Thomas Augustine Judge, founder of the MSBT, was ordained a Vincentian priest in Philadelphia in 1899. At that time the Church in the U.S. faced the task of absorbing thousands of immigrants from the Catholic countries of eastern and southern Europe. On April 11, 1909, 6 women responded to his appeal for lay apostles who would share in the mission and ministry of the Church. Father Judge’s influence inspired women and men from many walks of life to become members of this lay apostolic band, later known and accepted in the Church as the Missionary Cenacle Apostolate.
In the providence of God, the Missionary Cenacle came to the South. Between 1916 & 1918, lay volunteers began the formal beginnings of distinct religious apostolic life in both Phenix City & on a plantation in what would become Holy Trinity, AL. Among the volunteers in AL was Louise (Lulu) Keasey, who became known as Sister Mary Boniface.
Goals: To revitalize this small Rural area through programming for children, youth, and adults in an underserved area.
Programs: Varied. MSBTs offer a quiet, sacred space for private/group retreats for the day or overnight, and themed retreats throughout the year. Nestled in 1,200 acres of woodlands with walking trails, nature exploration and a historic 1917 Chapel.
