It is with a heavy heart and a sense of sorrow that we announce the closure of Spencer Brewery. After careful consideration and a period of profound reflection, the monks of St. Joseph’s Abbey have reached the difficult decision that brewing is no longer a viable industry for us. This conclusion comes after more than a year of consultation and deep contemplation.
A Changing Landscape
The decision to close Spencer Brewery was not made lightly. We have witnessed significant changes in the brewing industry over the years, with new craft breweries emerging and the market becoming increasingly saturated. This shift has made it increasingly challenging for us to compete and sustain our operations.
A Commitment to Quality
From the day we first ventured into brewing, our primary focus has been on crafting exceptional beers while staying true to our monastic traditions. We take pride in the quality and craftsmanship that we have brought to every bottle of Spencer beer. However, maintaining these standards has become increasingly difficult in the face of rising production costs and fierce competition.
Challenges and Limitations
Running a brewery requires a vast array of skills and resources, from production and distribution to marketing and sales. As monks, our primary calling and focus lie in our spiritual and monastic pursuits. Balancing the demands of running a brewery while staying committed to the monastic way of life has been a tremendous challenge for us—a challenge that has ultimately led us to this decision.
Financial Considerations
While the joy and satisfaction of brewing have not waned, the economic realities of operating a successful brewery in today’s market cannot be ignored. Despite our best efforts to navigate these challenges, the financial burden has become increasingly burdensome. The costs associated with ingredients, equipment, and distribution have continued to rise, making it difficult for us to sustain our operations in a financially viable manner.
A Spiritual Choice
As monks, our lives are dedicated to prayer, contemplation, and service to God and humanity. While brewing has been a fulfilling endeavor that has allowed us to connect with the wider community, we have come to the realization that it is time to refocus our energies and resources on our core mission. By closing the brewery, we can devote ourselves entirely to our spiritual practices and the work that truly defines us as monks.
Gratitude and Reflection
We would like to express our deepest gratitude to all those who have supported us on this brewing journey. To our loyal customers, retailers, and partners, we thank you for your unwavering support and appreciation for our beers. It is with a heavy heart that we bid farewell to the brewing industry, but we do so knowing that we have made a positive impact during our time.
A Legacy of Excellence
While the closure of Spencer Brewery is undoubtedly a sad moment in our history, it does not diminish the legacy of excellence we have established. Our beers have garnered praise and recognition for their quality and unique flavors. The knowledge and experience we gained during our brewing years will forever hold a special place within our community.
Embracing the Future
As we move forward, we do so with hope and a renewed focus on our monastic traditions. We are excited about the future and the opportunities it holds for us to deepen our spiritual practices and continue serving others. The closure of Spencer Brewery marks the end of a chapter, but it also opens doors to new possibilities and adventures.
Final Thoughts
The closure of Spencer Brewery is a decision that deeply saddens us. However, it is a decision rooted in practicality, financial challenges, and a desire to refocus our energies on our monastic calling. We remain grateful for the support we have received and the memories we have shared through our brewing endeavors. We invite you to join us in honoring the legacy of Spencer Brewery and celebrating the future that lies ahead.
