Leader Of St. Meinrad Archabbey Stepping Down

ST. MEINRAD, Ind. (AP) — The leader of a Roman Catholic monastery and seminary in southern Indiana is stepping down after leading it for more than 11 years.

Archabbot Justin DuVall says his resignation from St. Meinrad Archabbey will be effective June 2, the day that monastery monks are to elect his successor.

DuVall has been the spiritual leader and chief administrator of the monastery about 50 miles east of Evansville since the beginning of 2005. During his tenure, 162-year-old community finished construction of a new guest house and retreat center and renovated several of its buildings.

The monastery is home to about 90 monks and runs a theology school for those studying for the Catholic priesthood and lay ministry degrees. DuVall says the seminary is flourishing with a growing number of priesthood candidates.