Though not vowed to Holy Cross Abbey I nevertheless feel this is ‘my’ monastery. I’m privileged to have a room here, sit in choir and refectory, and even participate in some of the communities business meetings. That’s more than I ever thought would be possible as a layperson and is a blessing I can’t fully describe.
Men and women who have attended a Monastic Immersion Weekend have used the same language to me in notes, emails and calls. They consider HCA ‘their’ abbey. The monks are happy people get that feeling after being with us.
To attend an MIW gets you as close as you can get to living the monastic life, albeit for a short three or four days. There is something special about sitting in choir with the monks, eating your meals in silence and learning from monks and nuns about contemplative life. Frankly I don’t think this experience can be matched for those of us not called to the cloister who nevertheless have a contemplative heart.
The September MIW is almost full (couple of slots available so let me know asap if you are interested)…then in 2015 we will have another for men and women in March, men in September. If you want to see the schedule and get more information about the MIW click on Take Part above…
If you want to secure your spot send a $100 deposit to my attention here at the abbey. And if you would like to talk about the MIW (or anything else here at the abbey) call me at 540-955-4604…
pax,
Kurt, companion
companions@virginiatrappists.org