Joshua Bennett
Becoming an Anglican monk is a deeply spiritual journey that involves discernment, commitment, and a life dedicated to prayer, community, and service. The process begins with self-reflection and seeking guidance from a spiritual director or priest to confirm one's vocation. Aspiring monks typically spend time in discernment, often living in a monastery as a postulant or novice to experience the monastic rhythm of prayer, work, and study. The Anglican tradition emphasizes a balanced life rooted in the Rule of St. Benedict, which guides daily practices and communal living. After a period of formation, individuals may take temporary vows before committing to lifelong vows of stability, conversion of life, and obedience. This path requires a willingness to embrace simplicity, humility, and a profound connection to God within the context of the Anglican Church.
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What You'll Learn
- Research Anglican Monastic Orders: Explore different communities, their rules, and spiritual focuses to find the right fit
- Discern Your Vocation: Reflect on your calling through prayer, spiritual direction, and consultation with clergy
- Contact a Monastery: Reach out to an Anglican monastic community to express interest and ask questions
- Complete Aspirancy/Postulancy: Begin the initial stages of monastic life, living in the community and learning its ways
- Take Vows: Commit to lifelong vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience after a period of formation
Research Anglican Monastic Orders: Explore different communities, their rules, and spiritual focuses to find the right fit
The Anglican Communion is home to a diverse array of monastic orders, each with its unique charism, rule, and spiritual focus. To become an Anglican monk, it is essential to research these communities thoroughly, as they vary significantly in their daily rhythms, commitments, and expectations. For instance, the Society of St. John the Evangelist (SSJE) in Cambridge, Massachusetts, emphasizes a balance between contemplative prayer and active ministry, while the Community of the Holy Cross in England focuses on a more traditional Benedictine way of life, including the Divine Office and manual labor. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in determining which order aligns with your spiritual aspirations and lifestyle preferences.
Begin by identifying the core aspects of monastic life that resonate with you: is it the solitude of contemplative prayer, the discipline of a structured daily routine, or the commitment to service and hospitality? Once you have a clear sense of your priorities, explore the websites and publications of various Anglican monastic orders. Many orders provide detailed information about their history, mission, and daily schedule, offering valuable insights into their way of life. For example, the Order of the Holy Cross (OHC) in New York and Michigan highlights its commitment to pastoral care and spiritual direction, while the Community of the Sisters of the Church (CSC) in England emphasizes education and social justice. Engaging with these resources will help you discern which communities warrant further investigation.
A comparative analysis of monastic rules can also provide clarity. While all Anglican monastic orders follow a modified version of the Rule of St. Benedict, the specifics can vary widely. Some orders, like the Order of the Holy Paraclete, maintain a more traditional interpretation of the rule, including strict observance of silence and separation from the world. Others, such as the Society of St. Margaret, adapt the rule to accommodate greater engagement with the broader church and society. Consider how these differences might impact your ability to thrive in a particular community. For instance, if you value intellectual pursuits, an order that encourages study and writing, like the Community of the Sisters of the Love of God (SLG), may be a better fit than one that prioritizes manual labor.
Practical considerations should also factor into your research. Most Anglican monastic orders require a period of discernment, often lasting several years, before admission as a novice. During this time, you will have the opportunity to visit the community, participate in its daily life, and assess your compatibility with its members. Be prepared to ask probing questions about the challenges and rewards of monastic life, as well as the community’s expectations regarding financial contributions, health care, and long-term commitment. For example, some orders may require a vow of poverty, while others allow members to retain personal assets. Understanding these nuances will help you make an informed decision about which order to join.
Finally, remember that finding the right fit is a deeply personal and spiritual process. It is not merely about aligning with a community’s rules or focus but also about sensing a call to share in its particular way of seeking God. Take time to pray, reflect, and seek guidance from a spiritual director or trusted mentor. Visiting multiple communities, if possible, can provide invaluable firsthand experience and help you discern where you feel most at home. Ultimately, the goal of this research is not just to become an Anglican monk but to discern the specific monastic vocation to which God is calling you.
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Discern Your Vocation: Reflect on your calling through prayer, spiritual direction, and consultation with clergy
Becoming an Anglican monk is not a decision to be taken lightly; it requires deep introspection and spiritual grounding. Discerning your vocation is the cornerstone of this journey, and it begins with prayer. Prayer is not merely a ritual but a dialogue with God, a space where you can listen as much as you speak. Set aside dedicated time daily—perhaps 30 minutes in the morning and evening—to reflect on your desires, fears, and aspirations. Use structured prayers like the Daily Office or spontaneous conversations with God. The goal is to align your heart with His will, not to force an answer but to cultivate receptivity.
Spiritual direction is another critical tool in this process. A spiritual director—often a priest, deacon, or experienced layperson—acts as a guide, helping you interpret your experiences and emotions. They are not there to tell you what to do but to ask probing questions that reveal your true motivations. For instance, if you feel drawn to monastic life because of a desire for solitude, they might explore whether this stems from a genuine calling or an aversion to societal pressures. Aim to meet with your director monthly, treating these sessions as sacred appointments. Be honest, even when it’s uncomfortable; discernment thrives on transparency.
Consultation with clergy is equally vital, as they provide the institutional and theological framework for your calling. Anglican monasteries operate within the Church’s structure, and your local priest or bishop can offer insights into the expectations and realities of monastic life. They can also administer vocational assessments, which often include psychological evaluations and interviews. Don’t view this step as a hurdle but as a gift—it ensures that your calling is sustainable and aligned with the Church’s mission. If you’re unsure where to start, begin by attending regular services and building relationships with clergy; their guidance will become more personalized as they get to know you.
Finally, integrate these practices into your daily life. Discernment is not a one-time event but a continuous process. Keep a journal to track your thoughts, prayers, and conversations with spiritual mentors. Look for patterns—are certain themes or concerns recurring? Are there moments of clarity or confusion? Over time, these reflections will form a mosaic of your vocation. Remember, the goal is not to rush to a decision but to walk steadily toward God’s purpose for your life. As St. Benedict wrote, “Listen carefully, my child, to your master’s precepts, and incline the ear of your heart.” In discernment, listening is your greatest tool.
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Contact a Monastery: Reach out to an Anglican monastic community to express interest and ask questions
Reaching out to an Anglican monastic community is a pivotal step in discerning a monastic vocation. It transforms abstract curiosity into a tangible dialogue, offering insight into the rhythm of monastic life and your potential fit within it. Begin by identifying monasteries aligned with your spiritual inclinations—some lean toward contemplative silence, while others emphasize active service. The Community of the Glorious Ascension in London, for instance, balances prayer with engagement in social justice, whereas the Society of St. Francis prioritizes simplicity and environmental stewardship. Use the Anglican Religious Communities website to locate communities and their contact details, ensuring your outreach is informed and purposeful.
When drafting your initial communication, clarity and sincerity are paramount. Avoid generic inquiries; instead, articulate specific questions about daily life, formation processes, and expectations. For example, ask about the duration of the postulancy period, the role of manual labor, or how technology is integrated (or excluded) in their rule. Demonstrating familiarity with their charism shows genuine interest and helps them gauge your readiness. A well-crafted email or letter might include phrases like, “I’m drawn to your community’s emphasis on [specific aspect], and I’d appreciate insight into how this is lived out daily.”
Be prepared for a response that may invite further engagement, such as a visit or retreat. Monasteries often require prospective candidates to experience life within their walls before advancing discernment. If invited, approach the visit as an immersive learning opportunity, not a performance. Observe the liturgy, participate in chores, and engage in conversations with monastics to understand their dynamics. Practical tip: inquire about attire and daily schedules beforehand to avoid disruptions. For instance, some communities may request modest clothing or expect guests to join in early morning prayers.
Caution against treating this step as a transactional exchange. Monastic communities are not institutions to be “cracked” but sacred spaces rooted in discernment. Avoid pressuring them for immediate answers or timelines; their process is deliberate, reflecting the gravity of a lifelong commitment. Similarly, be honest about your own uncertainties—monastics value authenticity over polished piety. If you’re unsure about celibacy or communal living, voice these concerns respectfully; they are experienced guides, not gatekeepers.
In conclusion, contacting a monastery is both an act of courage and humility. It bridges the gap between aspiration and reality, offering a glimpse into a life of prayer, discipline, and service. Approach this step with reverence, specificity, and openness, allowing the dialogue to shape your understanding of both monasticism and yourself. As one monk advised, “The question is not whether you can become a monk, but whether you are willing to let monastic life transform you.” This exchange is the first step in that transformative journey.
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Complete Aspirancy/Postulancy: Begin the initial stages of monastic life, living in the community and learning its ways
The journey to becoming an Anglican monk begins with a period of discernment and immersion known as aspirancy or postulancy. This stage is not merely a trial run but a transformative experience where you live within the monastic community, embracing its rhythms and rituals. Typically lasting six months to a year, this phase is designed to test your vocation and prepare you for the deeper commitments ahead. During this time, you’ll share in the daily life of the monks, participating in prayer, work, and study while observing the Rule of the community. It’s a period of listening—to God, to the brothers, and to your own heart—to determine if this path aligns with your calling.
Living in the community during aspirancy/postulancy requires adaptability and humility. You’ll be expected to follow the monastic schedule, which often includes early morning prayer (Lauds), manual labor, communal meals, and periods of silence. Practical tips include learning the layout of the monastery quickly, mastering the etiquette of communal living (e.g., respecting shared spaces), and being open to feedback from the prior or abbot. This stage is not about perfection but about willingness to learn and grow. For instance, if you’re assigned to garden work but have no prior experience, approach it as an opportunity to cultivate both the soil and your patience.
One of the most challenging yet rewarding aspects of this phase is the balance between solitude and community. While monastic life emphasizes communal prayer and work, it also values personal reflection and spiritual discipline. You’ll likely be given a small cell or room for private prayer and rest, but the focus remains on integrating into the brotherhood. A key takeaway is that monasticism is not an escape from the world but a reorientation toward God within a supportive yet demanding structure. This period will test your ability to live in harmony with others while deepening your individual relationship with God.
Comparatively, aspirancy/postulancy in Anglican monasticism shares similarities with other Christian traditions but is uniquely shaped by the Anglican emphasis on balance and moderation. Unlike stricter orders, Anglican monasteries often allow for more personal autonomy within the communal framework. For example, while silence is observed, it may not be as rigid as in Trappist communities. This flexibility can be both a blessing and a challenge, requiring you to discern how to live faithfully within the Anglican ethos. It’s a time to ask: *How can I embody the via media—the middle way—in my monastic journey?*
In conclusion, completing aspirancy/postulancy is a foundational step in becoming an Anglican monk, offering a realistic glimpse into the joys and demands of monastic life. It’s a time to cultivate discipline, humility, and discernment, all while being supported by the community. Practical advice includes keeping a journal to reflect on your experiences, seeking regular guidance from a spiritual director, and embracing the discomfort that comes with growth. This stage is not just about proving your vocation but about allowing God to shape you into the person He intends you to be. If you approach it with openness and perseverance, it will lay a strong foundation for the vows that may follow.
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Take Vows: Commit to lifelong vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience after a period of formation
The decision to take lifelong vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience is the cornerstone of the monastic life, marking a profound commitment to a spiritual path that transcends worldly attachments. This step is not taken lightly; it follows a rigorous period of formation, during which aspirants discern their calling and prepare themselves mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Typically lasting several years, this formation includes living in a monastic community, participating in daily prayers, and engaging in manual labor, study, and spiritual direction. It is a time of deep introspection, where one confronts personal desires, fears, and limitations, ensuring that the vows are not merely words but a lived reality.
Poverty, the first of these vows, is not about destitution but about detachment from material possessions. It requires a shift in perspective, viewing wealth and resources as gifts to be shared rather than hoarded. Practically, this might mean surrendering personal income, relying on the community for necessities, and adopting a minimalist lifestyle. For instance, monks often wear simple habits, eat communal meals, and share living spaces, fostering a sense of equality and interdependence. This vow challenges the modern emphasis on individual accumulation, inviting a radical trust in God’s providence.
Chastity, the second vow, extends beyond sexual abstinence to encompass a holistic purity of heart and intention. It demands a reorientation of one’s desires toward divine love, freeing the individual from the distractions of romantic or carnal pursuits. For many, this vow is both liberating and demanding, as it requires cultivating deep emotional and spiritual intimacy within the monastic community. Practical steps include setting clear boundaries, avoiding situations that might tempt compromise, and engaging in regular spiritual practices like meditation and confession. Chastity is not about suppression but about channeling one’s energies toward a higher purpose.
Obedience, the third vow, is often misunderstood as blind submission but is, in fact, a disciplined act of humility and trust. It involves surrendering personal will to the guidance of a spiritual superior and the communal discernment of the monastery. This vow is particularly challenging in an age that prizes individual autonomy, yet it fosters unity and coherence within the community. Practically, obedience might mean accepting assignments that are difficult or unappealing, prioritizing the needs of the community over personal preferences, and seeking counsel before making significant decisions. It is a path of self-emptying, mirroring Christ’s obedience to the Father.
Taking these vows is not the end of the journey but the beginning of a lifelong process of growth and sanctification. It is a public declaration of one’s intention to live fully in accordance with the Gospel, supported by the grace of God and the fellowship of the monastic community. For those called to this path, the vows are not burdens but blessings, offering freedom from the entanglements of the world and a deeper union with the divine. They are a testament to the transformative power of faith, inviting others to consider what it means to live a life wholly dedicated to God.
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Frequently asked questions
Begin by deepening your spiritual life through regular prayer, participation in Anglican worship, and study of the Bible and Christian traditions. Seek guidance from your local priest or bishop to discern your vocation and explore monastic communities within the Anglican tradition.
No, ordination is not a requirement to become an Anglican monk. Monks focus on a life of prayer, community, and service, though some may pursue ordination as priests or deacons during their monastic journey.
The process varies but typically involves several stages: inquiry, postulancy (6–12 months), novitiate (1–2 years), and temporary vows (3–6 years) before taking lifelong vows. The entire process can take 5–9 years or more, depending on the individual and the community.
Daily life revolves around the Daily Office (prayer services), personal prayer, work (manual labor, administration, or ministry), study, and communal meals. Monks live in a structured, disciplined environment, emphasizing simplicity, obedience, and devotion to God.
