Approximately 900 years ago, Saint Norbert of Xanteen founded the Norbertine order in France, and St. Norbert College will be celebrating a jubilee year from Sunday, Nov. 29 – the first Sunday of advent – through Sunday, Jan. 9, 2022 – the Baptism of the Lord.

Known for his service to the Lord as both a preacher and peacemaker, Norbert attracted like-minded followers with whom he established the order on Christmas Day in 1120 in the valley of Prémontré, near Laon, France, according to the St. Norbert College website.

“To be rooted in such a long and rich history as Norbertines provides us with great hope as we serve and adapt to each generation,” Rt. Rev. Dane Radecki, abbot of St. Norbert Abbey, said. “God continues to call us to live in communio and to serve generously.”

The abbey and college trace their roots back to the ministry of Dutch brothers in the cloth who came to the area around 1893 to establish a ministry to immigrants from Belgium, Holland and France, according to the post. The college was first founded in 1898 under the leadership of Rev. Bernard Pennings, one of the original brothers.

Though the college began to prepare young men for the priesthood, Pennings added programs for lay students. The college experienced marked enrollment growth following WWII, as well as in recent years, and first began accepting female students in 1952.

“St. Norbert College has a compelling story to tell. Rooted in our three pillars of Norbertine, Catholic and liberal arts, the college has never been stronger,” Brian Bruess, St. Norbert College president, said. “We are thriving because, for the past 122 years, St. Norbert College has remained steadfast and true to its mission of embracing Abbot Penning’s founding vision and Norbertine ideals. Our graduates, working for the betterment of society around the globe, are morally and intellectually prepared for every good work, living out the Norbertine value of communio: United as one.”