1 - Associate Program. In the Associate program, we invite men between the ages of 19 and 50, to join our Benedictine Monastic family for a period of two weeks up to two months to see what we are about.

The Associates live in the monastery. They are brought into the daily rhythm lived by the monks. Besides the public activities of prayer, Eucharist, meals, work, and recreation, the Associates participate in the times of personal prayer, reflection, and holy reading, and free time.

Our experience has led us to set up our Associate Program in this way. The personal motivations that move each associate to want such an experience vary greatly. We want to offer each of them not only an in-depth experience and participation in our monastic life, but the encouragement for reflecting upon their life. We want to stimulate in them an openness to what God may want to do in their life in the years ahead.

While it is not a requisite that they be thinking about a religious or monastic vocation or about entering our community, we are willing to help them do such vocation discernment if they request it. Regardless of what they decide to do after their time with us, we are confident that their experience of monastic life in our community will be a blessing. All are called, through Baptism, to form one body in Christ. If we, even in some small way, can be instrumental in strengthening our Associates' response and commitment to Jesus Christ and His Church, we praise the Lord for that.

In regard to room and board and a small monthly stipend, these are our expression of appreciation for the services the associates offer us. Otherwise, they are not salaried. They are responsible for their own expenses and insurance.

We encourage you, then, to help us bring this ministry to those who can benefit from it.

If you wish to be a prospective associate, you can E-Mail us today at:

vocation@bluecloud.org

PROCEDURE: The Candidate Program is conducted for three months starting June 14 of each year. Mid-way in the Candidacy the candidate is evaluated by the Acceptance Committee. If the Candidate is approved, the Acceptance Committee presents the Candidate to the community for a vote. Upon approval by the community, the Candidate begins his Novitiate on September 14.

WORK: During this three months evaluation period the Candidate has an opportunity to work at the abbey at a variety of community jobs: gardening, working in the tailor or vestment shops, grounds keeping, library work, household tasks, building maintenance, bee-keeping, farming, food preparation, radio and video post-production, photography, carpentry shop, computer and retreat work. He is also provided time to pursue personal interest and hobbies.

REQUIREMENTS: The Candidate must be a single man, between the age of 19 to 50, who desires to seek God in the tradition of a Catholic Benedictine Monastery. He should have good physical and mental health. Each Candidate is expected to have his own medical insurance. During this time, room and board is provided.