Wechselburg, Sachsen, Germany
Benediktinerkloster Wechselburg
Benedictine priory in Wechselburg (Saxony), run by monks of Ettal Abbey since 1993; its church was raised to a minor basilica in 2018.
Ettal Abbey will end its presence at Wechselburg by 31 December 2026 for lack of monks; in September 2025 only two monks remained and the prior returned to Ettal. The Diocese of Dresden-Meißen is seeking ways to keep at least Sunday Mass in the basilica.
Before you act. No fundraising appeal found; this is a withdrawal, not a financial emergency.
Last checked 9 November 2026. Responsible body: Diocese of Dresden-Meißen / Ettal Abbey.
Neuss-Holzheim, Germany
Five sisters remain, two of them in a nursing home. An Apostolic Commissioner appointed by the Vatican in April 2026 has taken over the prioress's duties to secure the sisters' care and old-age provision and a move to another monastery. Another community moving in is considered unlikely; talks on a new use of the building are at an early stage.
Berg (Kellenried), Germany
The sisters stated in June 2025 that they can no longer maintain and use the abbey complex on their own in the long term, because of an aging community and lack of new members. Downsizing in the present buildings, a move, and the sale of the entire property are all being examined; they seek economically sustainable structures, new partners and security for the sisters' retirement.