Definition of a Benedictine Monk:

A Benedictine Monk is one who by taking the Vows of Religion (Poverty, Chastity & Obedience) binds himself to the monastic life in its integrity.

The essence of living a monastic life, is for the formation of a community of Monks, bound to live together until death, under the Holy Rule of St. Benedict, in common life, in the monastery (Abbey) of their Profession, as a Religious Family, leading a life not of marked austerity but devoted to the service of God.

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The Abbey (monastery) in which they live is the fixed abode of the community and consists principally of a Church, Chapter-house, Cloisters, Refectory, Cells for the Monastic’s, Library, Work-rooms, Guest Quarters, Parlours and any other ancillary facilities that are needed in being a self-contained community.

The Monks of Holy Rosary Abbey live the life according to the Holy Rule of St. Benedict, to the best of their ability, given the climate of society today.  They live together in common, sharing all that they have with the entire community. 

The traditional Benedictine Holy Habit, which consists of the Tunic, Scapular, Cowl, Cincture, Rosary and Benedictine Crucifix, is worn at all times in this Benedictine House.  Although Monks are generally barefoot (discalced), this is not always possible, but at this particular Abbey, the practice of being discalced is not only encouraged, but practiced by most of the Monastic’s.  The Holy Habit represents our life, our commitment to the service of God and His Church in this world, as well as our outward sign of our life freely chosen: that of poverty, penance and sacrifice.

Each Monk brings with him to the Abbey … gifts from Almighty God.  Some of those gifts are visible by means of abilities and or artistic talents.  Others … are from a deeper and more spiritual contribution.  But whatever the gift … we use all the gifts one has … to bring Glory to God in everything we do.

We are “Choir Monks” … in that, we chant all Seven Hours of the Divine Office daily in our Monastic Oratory.  We are not all great singers … but the great Psalmist, David, does not say that we have to posses professional operatic voices … he simply states that we must “make a joyful noise unto the Lord …”  So … we pray … and we make a joyful noise. 

We are not perfect, far from it … but we seek perfection in all that we do.  Our centuries old practices are wonderful expressions of our life and love of God.  We participate in the penitential practices of Culpa, Cross prayers, and prostration prayers … we give to God all that we can … we offer Him our lives, our bodies … we give Him our will and beg in exchange, that His Divine Will be manifested in all of us.

Monks are contemplative … not strictly cloistered.  Because of the world today, we are forced to go out into it … we go into the world out of necessity … we do not bring in … we leave behind … the world and its allurements.  Our life is a life of true love of our Lord … our life is a commitment … a commitment to serve and glorify God in all we do.

Vocations:  Do you hear the voice of God whispering in your ear ?  Can you feel Him tapping on your heart ?  Not all do or can.  But … “if you hear His voice … harden not your heart.”  Do you think you can accept His challenge ?  Can you be different from all the rest ?  Again … we are not perfect … but as long as you are willing to try … Our dear Lord and His Blessed Mother await your fiat.

Please pray for us !  And we will pray and offer our sacrifices for you.  We do not sacrifice our worldly life only for our own soul … but for all the souls that have been created … created to be with Him in paradise … to be with Him for eternity … to share with Him … the Beatific Vision !