The Candidate's first three months (June 14 to September 14) at Blue Cloud Abbey, prior to his entering the Novitiate, is similar to the Lay/Associate's stay at the Abbey. You can read the Lay Associate page to see all that is involved in a layperson's monastic experience at Blue Cloud. The differences are explained below.

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, 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.