Learn about the lifestyle of the Benedictine monks and discover what it takes to be one.
LIFE IN THE MONASTERY
THE EVERYDAY LIFE OF THE BENEDICTINE MONKS
ORDER IN ALL THINGS.
The Benedictine monks have always lived in harmony with nature and themselves. The overriding principle here is Ora et Labora; alternating between activity and mindfulness. The day always begins in the early hours with the morning prayer, because the mind is clear and body rested in the early part of the day. Then the Benedictine monks begin their work, managing the monastery's forest, working with their hands or looking after each other. After work, dinner is served, and then the day ends with the evening prayer.
RESPECT IS THE HIGHEST GOOD.
Being careful with one's environment is one of the core principles of the Benedictine monks. Everything, no matter how ordinary it is – every plant, animal and of course every single human being – is treated with the utmost respect. And because pleasure is just as deserving as everything else, the ingredients in the monastery's own restaurant are treated with care – as well as being particularly high in quality. After all, it's all about karma.
DISCOVER MINDFULNESS WITH ALL THE SENSES.
Apart from prayers and work, another important aspect of the life of a Benedictine monk is free or leisure time. Each individual is free to do whatever they most value and enjoy periods of relaxation. Every Benedictine monk has their own way of doing this, ranging from taking frequent forays in nature; taking in the view from the mountain over the valley; or gathering in groups to discuss God and the world – of course, preferably with a Benediktiner Weissbier to hand. The only thing that everyone has in common is moderation. As Saint Benedict preached, moderation is the path to leading a good life.