Do I have to get up in the middle of the night? No, our first community prayer is at 5:45 AM.
Do the monks live in dormitories?
No, each monk has a simple but comfortable room.
Do I have to give up my car? Yes. In fact, no one is entitled to personal property. The monastery’s goods are held in common for the benefit of all.
Can I visit my family? Yes, but generally in the summer when school is not in session, except in the case of family emergencies.
How often do you pray together? We pray together four times daily and at the community Mass. There is also time for private prayer, another obligation the monks follow.
Is there someone I can talk to about practical questions without bothering a monk? Certainly, ask the Director of the Monastic Renewal Program Office, David Moran. He is an alumnus and first Chairman of the Board of Regents of the School, and has been active here for many years. He works full-time for the monastery, and will be more than happy to help you.
You make it sound easy. Is it? Actually, the call requires rigorous self-examination. You must also have a sincere love of prayer, dedicated obedience, a capacity for solitude, and perseverance. The monk needs all of these qualities and the desire to deepen them.
What’s the process that leads to solemn profession? Go to Stages of Becoming a Monk for the answer.
David can be reached at dmoran@portsmouthabbey.org and also by phone at 401.643.1385