Santa Rita Abbey

About this church

Santa Rita Abbey is a Cistercian monastery of nuns in Sonoita, Arizona, set in the Santa Rita Mountains. The community follows the Rule of St. Benedict, balancing prayer, sacred reading and work, and the public is invited to join the Liturgy of the Hours and Mass. On Sundays, Tierce and the Eucharist are at 8 a.m., and Vespers at 5 p.m. is followed by Eucharistic Adoration. Monday through Saturday, Mass is at 7:30 a.m. when a resident chaplain is present; otherwise a Scripture and Communion Service is held at that hour. The daily schedule also includes Vigils at 4:15 a.m., Lauds at 7 a.m., midday prayer at noon, Vespers at 5:20 p.m. and Compline at 6 p.m.

The abbey offers a retreat house for quiet stays, open to people of all faiths as well as those unsure what they are seeking. A Volunteer Helpers Program for women ages 21 to 55 places participants at the retreat house for one to seven months between April and November, helping with the altar bread bakery, grounds, cleaning, cooking and gardens. A Monastic Experience Weekend is offered for single Catholic women considering the contemplative life. The nuns also bake and sell altar breads. Times can change, so visitors should confirm the schedule by calling 520-455-5595 before making the trip to this rural location.

Researched from the church’s official website and reviewed October 11, 2026. Sources: Daily prayer schedule and Mass times · Retreat house, volunteer program, and visit details · Cistercian identity, ministries, address and phone · Contact details and address

Service times

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Hours

Published hours can change. Confirm them directly with the church before visiting.

Location