Abbot’s Table XIII

Celebrating Faith, Service, and Community

Each year, the monks of St. Benedict’s Abbey set aside an evening to gather with the friends, families, and supporters who make their ministry possible—while also recognizing leaders whose lives and work have greatly served the Church and the common good.

Rooted in the Benedictine tradition of hospitality, Abbot’s Table is more than a dinner. It is an opportunity for the monastic community to express gratitude, celebrate friendship, and honor those whose witness in the world reflects the values of faith, charity, and service that shape monastic life.

The thirteenth annual Abbot’s Table began with Mass celebrated by Archbishop Shawn McKnight, joined by Archbishop Emeritus Joseph Naumann and Abbot James Albers, O.S.B. The evening continued with a joyful social hour, dinner, fellowship, and the much-anticipated Abbey videos that have become a favorite tradition for guests each year.

This year’s celebration honored the enduring legacy of the Knights of Columbus in Kansas, as well as Carl and Dorian Anderson, the 2026 Lumen Vitae Medalists.

Lumen Vitae Honorees

Knights of Columbus in Kansas

For more than 125 years, the Knights of Columbus in Kansas have served the people of our state with a steadfast commitment to faith, charity, and fraternity.

Through their dedication to the Catholic Church and to the common good, they have strengthened parishes, supported families, and cared for those most in need. With more than 260 councils across the state, their presence has touched communities in every corner of Kansas, fostering a spirit of brotherhood among Catholic men and a deep devotion to service.

Their works of charity and witness of faith have made a lasting impact, building up both the Church and civil society while helping to pass on the faith to future generations. In gratitude for their enduring legacy and faithful service, the monks of St. Benedict’s Abbey are honored to recognize the Knights of Columbus in Kansas with the Lumen Vitae Medal.  

Carl and Dorian Anderson

Carl and Dorian Anderson have devoted their lives to serving others and helping countless Catholics come to know, love, and serve God more deeply. Their shared witness reflects the beauty and strength of the domestic church as the foundation for Christian life and society.

Carl served as Supreme Knight of the Knights of Columbus from 2000 to 2021, guiding the organization in its global mission of charity, unity, and evangelization. He has also offered distinguished lay leadership to the Church through his service with the Saint John Paul II Institute in Washington, D.C., the Pontifical Academy for Life, and much more.

Dorian has been a faithful partner in this mission, dedicating herself to spiritual and corporal works of mercy that have touched multitudes. Together, they consider their family—five children and a growing number of grandchildren—the greatest fruit of their life in Christ.  

Featured Videos

Click above to view the event video playlist.

  • Introductory Video
    A brief opening look at the major projects helping shape the future of the Abbey.

  • Thank You, Archbishop Emeritus Joseph F. Naumann
    A tribute honoring Archbishop Naumann’s faithful service and lasting impact on the Church in Kansas.

  • Knights of Columbus 4708
    Recognizing the St. Benedict’s College Council for their leadership, fraternity, and campus service.

  • Monastic Schola Training at St. Benedict’s Abbey
    A humorous behind-the-scenes look at how the monks “prepare” for sacred music.

  • A Look at Monastic Study with the Monks of St. Benedict’s Abbey
    A lighthearted skit exploring reading, study, and monastic life.

  • Lumen Vitae — Knights of Columbus in Kansas
    Honoring 125 years of faith, charity, and fraternity across Kansas.

  • Gary Wondra Acceptance Speech
    Remarks from the Kansas State Deputy accepting the award on behalf of the state Knights.

  • Lumen Vitae — Carl & Dorian Anderson
    A tribute celebrating their lifelong service to the Church, family, and the pro-life mission.

  • Carl Anderson Acceptance Speech
    Mr. Anderson reflects on faith, family, and the ongoing work of Catholic witness.

  • 2025–2026 Year in Review
    A summary of major moments and milestones from the past year at the Abbey.

  • Abbot James R. Albers Remarks
    The Abbot’s address to guests on gratitude, mission, and the future of the community.

  • Ways to Give to St. Benedict’s Abbey
    A brief overview of how supporters can help sustain the monks and their work.

  • Abbot’s Table XIII Bloopers
    A collection of humorous outtakes and favorite behind-the-scenes moments.

  • What is Gregorian Chant?
    A short reflection on the history and beauty of chant in Benedictine prayer.

Support the Monks

Help Sustain the Mission of St. Benedict’s Abbey

The prayer and work of the monks is made possible by the generosity of friends and benefactors like you.

Your support helps sustain the daily life of the Abbey, form future monks, preserve sacred liturgy and music, welcome guests in hospitality, and strengthen the many apostolates entrusted to our monastic community.

Abbot’s Table is not simply an event—it is a reminder that this mission belongs to all of us together.

We invite you to make a gift in support of St. Benedict’s Abbey and help ensure that this work continues for generations to come.