Assumption Abbey is a community of monks of the Cistercian Order of the Strict Observance, popularly known as Trappists. Monks first came to Ava, Missouri from New Melleray Abbey in Iowa in 1950 to establish the monastic life here. The Abbey is situated in the rugged, wooded Ozarks. Clear streams, a small river flow among our hills. It is a beautiful site, a place apart, offering peace and ...