Located just off Interstate 94 in Collegeville, Minnesota, the Saint John’s Abbey Church stands as a remarkable example of modernist architecture crafted by the esteemed architect Marcel Breuer. This iconic structure was constructed between 1958 and 1961 as part of a broader vision to enhance the facilities of Saint John’s University and the adjacent monastery.

Marcel Breuer: Background and Influence

Marcel Breuer, originally from Hungary, began his architectural education at the Bauhaus in Germany during the 1920s and 30s. Following the rise of the Nazi regime, which forced the closure of the Bauhaus, he relocated to London before eventually making his way to the United States. “He was from Hungary, originally studied at the Bauhaus in Germany… Eventually, he moved to the United States,” remarked Brother Alan Reed, a monk at the abbey.

Connections to Film

The design of the abbey church even inspired the Oscar-winning film “The Brutalist,” a fictional tale revolving around a Holocaust survivor and immigrant architect. This cinematic connection stemmed from a book written by a monk who collaborated with Breuer. As Brother Reed explained, “The link is that the director of the film had read a small book when he was thinking about this project.”

Historical Context and Vision

The conception of Saint John’s Abbey Church followed the upheavals of World War II when both the university and the abbey experienced significant growth. “Finally, it was decided we need an architect to help us plan that,” recounted Brother Reed, highlighting the need for a lasting architectural presence for the monastery.

While the film portrays Breuer’s life somewhat inaccurately — he was never in Germany during the Holocaust — it still underscores the impact of his work and experiences.

A Sacred Space

For monks like Reed, the heightened attention from Hollywood represents an opportunity to showcase the significance of their sacred space. “I would love it if it helps people to appreciate that this is a sacred space,” he expressed, demonstrating a hope that the church’s unique architectural qualities and religious importance will gain wider recognition.