Discernment begins with a letter and usually continues with a visit. There is no pressure and no commitment: a monastery that is right for you will still be here after you have taken your time.
Who may apply
- Catholic men, baptised and confirmed, between about 21 and 40
- Good physical and psychological health, able to follow the common life
- A college degree or several years of steady work
- Free of debts, or with a clear plan to settle them before entry
- At least two years since entering or returning to the Church
Each man is different; write to us even if you do not fit every point.
The path of formation
Visits and live-in a few weeks
Stay in the guesthouse, then live a week or two inside the enclosure with the monks.
Postulancy 6 to 12 months
You live the monastic day while keeping your own clothes, and the community gets to know you.
Novitiate 1 year
You receive the habit and study the Rule, the Psalms and monastic history under the novice master.
Temporary vows 3 years
Vows of stability, conversion of life and obedience, renewed until solemn profession.
Solemn vows for life
Lifelong profession in this community. Some monks are later called to the priesthood.
Come and see
Come and See weekend
12 March 2027 to 14 March 2027
Three days of the Office, work alongside the monks and conversations with the vocation director.
Summer monastic experience
5 July 2027 to 18 July 2027
Two weeks living the monastic day for men 21 to 40.
Questions people ask
I have student loans. Can I still apply?
Yes, write to us. We will talk through a plan to pay them before entry; many men have done this.
Do I need to know Latin or music?
No. You will learn the chant in the novitiate, and Latin as far as the Office needs.
Can my family visit?
Yes. Families are welcome in the guesthouse, and monks may visit home in some circumstances.
How long does it take to make vows?
About two years to first vows, and three more to solemn vows.
Write to us
Father Benedict (fictional), vocation director, reads every letter. You can also write directly to vocations@example.org.