Perched gracefully on the picturesque Hampshire-Surrey border, just south of London, lies Saint Michael’s Abbey, a haven steeped in tradition and spiritual reflection. Founded in 1895, the monastery is home to a small but dedicated Benedictine community that has upheld timeless values of prayer, work, and study. In a recent initiative to modernize while respecting the historic integrity of their sacred space, Brother Michael, a key figure at the abbey, reached out to Whitwam AVI for assistance in upgrading the abbey’s AV, IT, and security systems.
The decision to implement modern technology at Saint Michael’s Abbey was born from Brother Michael’s visit to Saint George’s Chapel in Windsor. Impressed by the seamless integration of technology into the chapel’s historic architecture, he recognized that similar solutions could enhance the liturgical experience at his own monastery. “Our community has a rich history, and it’s vital for us to preserve and celebrate it while ensuring our technologies are up to date,” he shared.
Originally intending to upgrade just the sound system, the project quickly expanded to include a complete restoration of the abbey. “We started with a new audio system but it evolved into a comprehensive solution encompassing video streaming, CCTV, and a site-wide networking system,” detailed Ray Clarke, the operations and engineering manager at Whitwam AVI. This would not only enhance the experience for the current monks and congregation but also extend their reach to a global audience through live streaming.
Given the complexities of working in an environment with both historic significance and architectural constraints, Whitwam AVI undertook the challenge with great care. The team designed custom solutions for loudspeakers and cameras, ensuring they blended seamlessly into the abbey’s majestic interior. Limited cable routes forced the team to be innovative, employing specially designed trunking and IP-rated enclosures to accommodate the environmental conditions present in the building’s crypt and basement.
Despite the challenges, the cooperation between the abbey and Whitwam AVI proved fruitful. Brother Michael noted, “The Whitwam team was almost invisible while they worked, and their professionalism was commendable.” Their dedication resulted in an audio system featuring five pairs of Bose MA12 modular column array loudspeakers, ensuring even sound coverage throughout the nave, altars, and side chapels.
For the video components, five custom-colored Panasonic AW-UE50 PTZ cameras were strategically installed, providing coverage crucial for both daily services and special events. A portable camera was also added to capture unique moments such as weddings, ensuring that no significant occasion would go unwitnessed. Brother Michael also mentioned how the new technology improved the organist’s ability to manage services, thanks to an enhanced view provided by a dedicated video monitor.
Accessibility was a core consideration in this upgrade. A cutting-edge Sennheiser MobileConnect system was introduced, allowing hard-of-hearing attendees to enjoy services via their smartphones. This solution not only addressed the limitations posed by traditional hearing loops but also provided a modern and scalable alternative that the abbey could grow with.
Furthermore, Whitwam AVI ensured that the user experience was intuitive and efficient. A Crestron control system integrates all audio and video technology, enabling streamlined everyday operation. A wall-mounted control touchscreen allows for straightforward access to various system functions, ensuring that worship services can be managed with ease, even by those less tech-savvy.
The broadcast capabilities are particularly noteworthy. The abbey’s system now includes a Blackmagic Design ATEM 2 M/E Production Studio 4K, along with an Epiphan Pearl Nano streaming solution. This setup allows for the encoding and direct transmission of services to online platforms like YouTube, thus enabling family and friends of community members worldwide to participate in the monastery’s life. “Our intention was to connect with individuals who may feel distant yet hold a connection to this place,” said Father Abbot, emphasizing the need for modern outreach.
Looking ahead, Whitwam AVI remains committed to supporting the evolving technological needs at Saint Michael’s Abbey. Clarke’s team is ready to respond to support requests through a preventative maintenance contract, ensuring that the advancements made can be effectively managed in the years to come. “Our goal was to build a system that will serve the abbey well into the future, and having this robust network in place allows for growth,” he asserted.
The feedback from the monks and congregation has been overwhelmingly positive. Not only has the technology been commended for its quality, but the considerate installation that respects the abbey’s architectural integrity has also been praised. “We are still one of the most traditional communities in terms of our worship; however, we are now among the most modern when it comes to the technology we use to promote that worship,” affirmed Father Abbot.
By embracing technological advancement while honoring its rich traditions, Saint Michael’s Abbey has managed to carve out a unique identity that resonates with both contemporary congregants and historical sentiment. As the global audience continues to grow, the abbey is well on its way to achieving its mission of sharing its spiritual beauty with the world—an endeavor that harmonizes tradition and innovation.
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