The call to enter a monastery is Christ's invitation to seek him in a particular community, place and manner of life. Entering a Cistercian monastery involves a long process of discernment, both on the part of the individual and of the Mississippi community.
Generally a woman begins corresponding with the vocation director and comes to visit the abbey (ideally this would be for several visits). If this seems to be the direction God is leading her, then she returns as an observer, living and working inside the cloister with the community for several months. (See Stages of our life)
St Benedict calls the monastery a school of charity. It is here that the seeds of love and desire grow into a new manner of life, centered on Christ, and wholly ordered to contemplation. Our vocation is entirely devoted to the mystery of Christ, discovering the paradoxes of life in a self-emptying that leads to fulfillment, and a self-renunciation that leads to freedom and peace. It is not, however, some "other worldly" sublimation, but rather occurs within the rough and tumble of ordinary, daily events.
Monastic life is real life, but structured according to a special rhythm of prayer, work and spiritual reading (lectio divina). This life continually calls us to conversion, charity, self-knowledge and mindfulness of God. In this milieu, real transformation can occur. Good health, ability to get along well with others, and some college or work experience are required.
Our age limit is 39.
For more information, contact our Vocation Director.
May you be clothed with Christ and always bear his name with love and fidelity... United in the Father's mercy, may we share all things in love, our joys and sorrows, our weaknesses and strengths, our spiritual and material gifts. May we grow in our desire to give glory to God and seek his face. And may he bring us all together into his kingdom. Amen.
- Rite of Solemn Profession
