The monastery of which I am a novice oblate is having it's annual summer vocational discernment program for young men considering monastic life. The subprior just sent me this notice, asking to spread the word.
The Monastery of San Benedetto in Norcia will hold its 10th annual summer vocational discernment program in 2008 from July 1 – July 31.
The purpose of the program is to offer young men (usually age 18-30) a time to discern God’s will for their life in a more concentrated way than normal worldly circumstances permit.
Attendees will be invited to participate in the life of the monks as a way to guide their decision. The program also includes the following aspects:
Readings and discussions on vocational discernment based on texts from Scripture, the Church Fathers, and the Magisterium.
All the states of life (i.e. marriage, priesthood and religious life) are considered.
Spiritual direction with the monks
Weekly outings to important places in St. Benedict’s life (Subiaco, Monte Cassino)
Weekly hikes in the mountains surrounding Norcia.
Requirements:
Open to men ages 18-30.
A letter of recommendation from a priest.
A $300 donation would be helpful but is not essential.
Participants should try to arrive a few days early to get over the jet lag. For more information please visit the monastery website: www.osbnorcia.org. To apply please write to the Subprior, Br Benedict at benedict@osbnorcia.org.
The community is mostly made up of monks from the United States, however, it is intended to be an international community. It would be ideal if candidates can speak either English or Italian, however, for any questions contact Br. Benedict at the address above.
Having gone through the program I can say it is well worth it and gives you a very good and extended experience of monastic life. The community is solid in it's doctrine, liturgy, and monastic observance. I would highly encourage any men who are even slightly interested.
RS
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