Joshua Bennett
While it is possible to stay at a monastery as a guest, becoming a monk is a different process. To become a Catholic monk, one must be a baptised and confirmed practising Roman Catholic man, although there is no strict age limit or requirement for a college degree. However, men between 25 and 40 are considered the most likely to persevere, and younger candidates must show maturity. Candidates over 40 must prove they can adapt to community life. Before joining a monastery, one must discern their vocation, or calling from God, and visit monasteries to experience the environment and liturgical practices. Once a candidate joins a monastery, they become a junior monk after a novitiate period, during which they make the first of several one-year vows. At the end of each yearly vow, the monk is free to leave. Finally, if approved by the community, the monk professes solemn, or permanent vows.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Monasteries offering free accommodation can be found all over the world. |
| Guests | Monasteries may offer separate accommodation for men and women. Some monasteries only accept men, while others accept both. |
| Cost | Some monasteries offer free accommodation, while others charge a fee. |
| Meals | Meals may be included in the cost of accommodation, or guests may be expected to share meals with the monks. Some monasteries offer basic foodstuffs, while others may provide guests with the opportunity to grow their own food or make their own wine and cheese. |
| Rules | Guests may be expected to abide by certain rules during their stay, such as observing periods of silence, attending religious services, and helping with manual work around the monastery. Some monasteries may also have a curfew. |
| Amenities | Monasteries tend to be minimalist and may not include modern amenities such as televisions or phones. Some monasteries may offer a common room or a small kitchen for guests. |
| Payment methods | Some monasteries do not accept credit cards, so guests should bring cash. |
| Purpose | Monasteries offer accommodation for those seeking peace, quiet, and spiritual guidance. |
| Requirements | To stay long-term at a monastery, individuals may need to be single, Catholic, and over the age of 18. |
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What You'll Learn
Monasteries with free accommodation
Monasteries are a great option for travellers seeking peace, history, and savings. While some monasteries charge for accommodation, there are several that offer free stays or allow guests to decide how much to pay. Here are some monasteries that provide free or flexible accommodation:
Pluscarden Abbey, Scotland
Pluscarden Abbey is a medieval Catholic Benedictine monastery in northeastern Scotland, founded in 1230 by Alexander II of the Valliscaulian Order. It is the only medieval monastery in Britain still used for its original purpose. The abbey welcomes guests for self-directed retreats and does not charge set fees for rooms. Instead, it asks for donations and participation in daily chores in exchange for accommodations. Guests are housed separately by gender, and silence is generally observed in the church and monastic areas.
Monasterio de Sobrado, Spain
Monasterio de Sobrado, officially known as Monasterio de Santa María de Sobrado, is a working Cistercian monastery in northwestern Spain. It is located along the famed Camino de Santiago trail. The monastery has a 98-bed hostel with eight dormitories, primarily serving pilgrims and hikers on the Camino de Santiago journey. While there may be nominal fees for accommodation, the monastery's focus is on providing hospitality rather than profit.
Holy Cross Monastery, New York
Holy Cross Monastery in West Park, New York, offers guest rooms for those seeking silence and contemplation. Guests stay in former monk cells that include basic furnishings, and shared bathrooms are available. Meals are taken with the monastic community, and worship services are open to guests. While a deposit may be requested, offerings are generally made on a free-will basis.
Sikh Golden Temple, India
The Sikh Golden Temple in India offers free accommodation to all visitors. This unique opportunity allows guests to immerse themselves in the Sikh culture and traditions while exploring the historic and sacred site.
New Norcia, Western Australia
New Norcia, a monastic town in Western Australia, welcomes guests with a suggested donation approach. This arrangement allows visitors to contribute according to their means while experiencing the serenity and tranquility of the monastic environment.
These are just a few examples of monasteries that offer free or flexible accommodation. Staying in a monastery can provide a rewarding and empowering experience, allowing guests to connect with the monastic community and immerse themselves in a serene and historical setting.
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How to become a Catholic monk
If you're considering becoming a Catholic monk, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, monastic formation is a lifelong endeavour, and each monk must continue their conversion and development throughout their life.
To begin your journey towards becoming a monk, you should make several visits to the monastery and meet with the vocation director. During this time, you'll learn about the monastery's manner of life and discern your vocation. You'll also receive instruction about the Christian faith and life. After this initial period, you can apply to become a postulant, which is a trial period where you live within the community for an extended period, usually between three months and two years.
At the end of the postulancy, you can apply to the abbot to become a novice. This application requires the consent of the chapter, which is composed of all the solemnly-professed monks. As a novice, you'll take temporary vows that are valid for three years but can be renewed. These vows typically include obedience, stability, and the conversion of life. You'll also receive a long black choir robe called the Cuculla or Cowl and become a junior monk.
During the juniorate, you'll receive further instruction and formation, with the junior master reporting annually on your progress. This period can last between three and nine years, after which you can apply to the abbot for solemn profession. This involves taking final vows, which bind you to the community for life, and being formally received into the monastery.
It's important to note that there are specific criteria for becoming a Catholic monk. You must be male, single, celibate, a practising Catholic, and have received the Sacrament of Confirmation. Additionally, you should be free from family obligations, in good physical and mental health, and able to live in community with others.
Monastic life is demanding but rewarding. Monks gather several times a day to chant the Psalms and celebrate Mass, and they spend at least four hours each weekday in manual labour, contributing to the day-to-day running of the monastery.
If you're considering this path, it's recommended to reach out to a Vocation Director at a monastery that resonates with you and explore what monastic life entails.
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Rules and etiquette of staying with monks
While staying with monks, it is important to be mindful of the rules and etiquette that may be in place. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Minimalist accommodations: Monastery rooms are typically on the minimalist side, without modern amenities such as televisions. Some monasteries may also have restrictions on the use of phones and other electronic devices. It is important to respect these limitations and embrace the simplicity of the monastic lifestyle.
- Curfews: Be aware of any curfews that may be in place. Monasteries often have a set time when the main doors are locked for the night, and missing the curfew may result in being locked out. Respect the community's schedule and plan your activities accordingly.
- Payment methods: Many monasteries do not accept credit cards, so it is advisable to inquire about payment methods in advance. Ensure you have enough cash to cover your stay and any additional expenses.
- Meal arrangements: Some monastic communities grow their own food and may even make their own wine and cheese. Inquire about meal arrangements and be respectful of the community's dietary practices and restrictions.
- Religious services: While religion may not be a mandatory part of your stay, some monasteries may require compulsory attendance at religious services. Be mindful of these expectations and respect the religious practices of the community.
- Respect for the community: Whether you are staying in a working monastery or a monastery-turned-hotel, remember to respect the monks' privacy and daily routines. Avoid disrupting their meditation, prayers, or other spiritual practices.
- Dress code: While there may not be a strict dress code, it is advisable to dress modestly and appropriately, especially when visiting sacred spaces within the monastery.
- Communication: When interacting with the monks and other guests, maintain respectful and thoughtful communication. Be open to learning about their way of life and engaging in meaningful conversations.
Remember, each monastery may have its own specific rules and expectations, so it is always best to inquire about any unique guidelines upon your arrival. Embracing the simplicity and spirituality of monastic life can lead to a rewarding and enriching experience during your stay.
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Worldwide monasteries offering free stays
While free monastery stays are rare, there are a few options for those seeking peace and savings. Many monasteries offer guest rooms at reasonable rates, and some even provide free stays under certain conditions. Here is a list of worldwide monasteries that offer free or low-cost accommodations:
Pluscarden Abbey, Scotland
Pluscarden Abbey is a medieval Catholic monastery nestled in the hills of northeastern Scotland. It is the only medieval monastery in Britain still used for its original purpose. The abbey offers simple short-term accommodations, with men staying in a wing of the abbey and women staying in St. Scholastica's, a separate building nearby. Guests can explore the surrounding hills, attend services, and purchase monk-made products. The cost is donation-based.
New Norcia Abbey, Australia
Located in Western Australia, this monastery features architecture influenced by Spain. Guests can sample the monk-made wine and beer and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The cost is a suggested donation of $75 per night.
Kopan Monastery, Nepal
Kopan Monastery is home to 360 monks, and outsiders can also stay for up to a month to attend the popular meditation classes. The cost is based on group rates, starting from £16.00 per night. Guests must abide by the house rules, which include no killing, stealing, lying, sexual conduct, or mind-altering substances.
Mepkin Abbey, Chicago, USA
This monastery offers individual guest rooms with shared bathrooms. Guests can join the monks in daily celebrations and prayers and seek spiritual assistance. A deposit is requested, but offerings are made on a free-will basis.
Monastery in Cambridge, USA
Guests stay in former monk cells and share bathrooms. Meals are taken with the monastic community, and worship services are open to guests. The monastery offers "directed" and individual retreats, and each guest room has its own shower. Offerings are made on a free-will basis.
Ecce Home Convent, Old City, Damascus
This convent features terraces with views of the Dome of the Rock, and guests can hear the call to prayer from the city. By volunteering to serve meals, prep food, and welcome pilgrims for 30 hours a week, one can stay for free.
Monasterio de Sobrado, Spain
This working Cistercian monastery is located in northwestern Spain and is a stop along the Camino de Santiago. It offers guest rooms for visitors and provides a peaceful retreat.
Sta. Katarinahjemmet, Oslo, Norway
Sta. Katarinahjemmet is a Catholic convent located in a quiet corner of Oslo. It offers guest rooms for short stays, providing a tranquil escape from the city.
It's important to note that while these monasteries offer accommodations, they are not commercial establishments. Guests are expected to respect the faith and traditions of the monastery and, in some cases, may be asked to help with chores or observe silence.
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Retreats and stays for Catholic monks
There are many monasteries worldwide that offer retreats and stays for Catholic monks and those seeking a monastic experience. Here are some examples:
Abbey of Gethsemani
The Abbey of Gethsemani offers silent, unstructured, and undirected retreats for those seeking a monastic experience. The retreat house has 30 rooms for men and women, with private baths and showers, and some rooms are accessible for persons with disabilities. Guests are welcome to join the monks at the Eucharist and the Hours of Prayer. The guesthouse library offers a wide selection of books and periodicals. Meals are provided, and while the monks do not eat meat, it is served to guests several times a week. Guests are asked to make voluntary offerings to cover expenses.
Holy Cross Abbey
Holy Cross Abbey's Retreat House is located in Virginia and offers a quiet and solitary retreat experience. The retreat house has 16 rooms available for reservation for men and women. The rooms are single-occupancy with private bathrooms, and guests are asked to make voluntary offerings to cover expenses. Catholic priests who are on retreat are welcome to concelebrate Mass with the monks.
Abbaye de Saint-Benoît-du-Lac
The Abbaye de Saint-Benoît-du-Lac, founded by Benedictine monks in 1912, is located in Quebec, Canada. The abbey offers accommodations for male guests in the Abbey Guesthouse and female guests in the Villa Sainte-Scholastique. Rates include three meals a day, and internships are offered for young men interested in spiritual practices who are willing to contribute manual labor in exchange for free accommodation.
Monasterio de Santa María de Sabrado
The Monasterio de Santa María de Sabrado, located in northwestern Spain, is a working monastery along the Camino de Santiago. The monastery has a 98-bed hostel for those journeying along the Camino de Santiago, whether for spiritual reasons or simply for the love of hiking and nature.
Pluscarden Abbey
Pluscarden Abbey is a medieval Catholic Benedictine monastery in northeastern Scotland that offers simple short-term accommodations.
Sisters of St. Benedict
The Sisters of St. Benedict in Ferdinand, Indiana, is one of the largest Benedictine communities of women in the United States. They offer private, directed, conference, and centering prayer retreats, as well as programs, workshops, spiritual direction, energy healing, and therapeutic massage.
The Benedictine Peace Center
The Benedictine Peace Center offers a peaceful place for men and women of all faiths to rest and renew their relationship with God. The center has spacious grounds and comfortable accommodations for a relaxed and intimate retreat experience.
The Nazareth Retreat Center
The Nazareth Retreat Center offers accommodations for groups and individuals for day or overnight retreats, providing a peaceful and hospitable environment.
Our Lady of Grace
Our Lady of Grace, located on Western Long Island, is just a 30-minute trip from NYC. They offer day and half-day programs and retreats for groups and individuals seeking professional and spiritual development.
General Information
It is important to note that while monastery stays can be a budget-friendly option, they often have specific rules and guidelines. Guests may be asked to abide by a curfew, and modern amenities such as televisions and phones may not be available. Some monasteries may also have specific dress codes or expectations for attendance at religious services. It is always a good idea to research the specific monastery and their rules before booking a stay.
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Frequently asked questions
Pluscarden Abbey in Scotland is a medieval Catholic Benedictine monastery that offers free accommodation in a peaceful and secluded setting. Guests are expected to help with chores and abide by the rules of the monastery.
No, you do not need to be Catholic or even religious to stay with monks. However, if you are interested in becoming a monk, you will need to become Catholic and get permission from your Bishop or Religious Superior before applying to a monastery.
St. Benedict's guest house in Scotland offers free accommodation for men adjacent to the Abbey. Women can stay for free at St. Scholastica's Retreat, a short walk from the monastery.
Monasteries often have strict rules that guests must follow. These may include periods of silence, a curfew, and no smoking or vaping. Guests may also be expected to attend religious services and help with manual work.
