Here are photos of the MIW class of 2016 with Father Paschal Balkan at his conference on Trappist life (right) and Father Maurice Flood after his conference on his time with Thomas Merton (left). Add a session with the Abbot and choir practice with Fr. James and the class had a wonderful opportunity to spend time with monks of Holy Cross Abbey.
The MIW ended yesterday afternoon and this class broke an MIW record: all 16 people attended every single Office and conference during the weekend. That means they made their way to the Chapel five times a day, attended four different conferences and not one member of the class missed a single session. They also sat in choir with the monks to chant the offices and by all accounts got high marks for their singing!
Monastic Immersion Weekends give laypeople a chance to truly experience monastic life by ‘immersing’ themselves in that life for two full days. Participants wear distinctive clothing, including a crucifix blessed by the abbot, during the weekend, take most meals in silence (except for the festive Saturday night meal that includes beer, wine and conversation) and hear conferences on the life from monks and a companion of the abbey. All conferences are designed to offer attendees practical information about monastic principles that can be applied to their everyday lives.
The 2017 Monastic Immersion Weekend dates will be announced shortly so keep an eye on the web site for information. As always we warn you that they fill up very fast so if you are interested I would indicate that interest as soon as you see the announcement.
Leave a Reply