The Diocese of Birmingham in Alabama extends its heartfelt gratitude to Abbot Marcus Voss, O.S.B., who today tendered his resignation as abbot of St. Bernard Abbey in Cullman, AL for health reasons. Abbot Marcus has faithfully served as abbot since July 24, 2019, guiding the monastic community with wisdom, vision, and pastoral devotion.

Under his leadership, the monks of St. Bernard Abbey have continued their extraordinary pastoral service to the parishes and educational ministries throughout our diocese. The abbey itself has remained a locus of prayer, reflection, and hospitality—a place where priests, religious, and lay faithful alike have found consolation, renewal, and spiritual support. Its legendary Benedictine welcome has long been a hallmark of this sacred place.

Abbot Marcus has been instrumental in the recent renewal and updating of the monastery, ensuring that the abbey continues to thrive as a living witness of Benedictine life. His vision for the future of the abbey sustains its mission as a place where one can encounter Christ—in the beauty of the liturgy, in the ministry of the monks, in education, and in their enduring commitment to excellence.

The Diocese of Birmingham in Alabama is profoundly grateful for the witness, leadership, and ministry of Abbot Marcus Voss. We accompany him with our prayers and affection as he begins this next chapter of his life, confident that the good work begun through his service will continue to bear fruit in the years ahead.