The Norbertines — formally the Canons Regular of Premontre — live a life that combines prayer, liturgy, and pastoral ministry rooted in the Rule of Saint Augustine. Their charism is expressed through Eucharistic devotion, communal liturgical prayer (especially the Divine Office and Mass), and active service in parishes and apostolates, seeking to bring Christ’s presence into the heart of Christian communities. They emphasize zeal for souls, pastoral care, preaching, and sacramental ministry as part of their shared life in community.

The Canons Regular of Premontre — also called the Norbertines or Premonstratensians — were founded in 1120 by St. Norbert of Xanten in Prémontré, France as a community of canons regular committed to a life of contemplation and active pastoral ministry. Rooted in the Augustinian tradition with influences from Cistercian spirituality, the Order spread throughout Europe over the centuries, combining liturgical prayer and pastoral outreach in monasteries, parishes, and educational settings. Today the Norbertines are present worldwide in various priories and abbeys, and though they are not broadly established in East Africa as a province, individual communities and affiliated houses exist globally.

St. Norbert Abbey – USA (Norbertine vocation contact) Email: vocations@norbertines.org (contact for general enquiries and vocations)